State forests in the Coffs Coast region are now closed due to damage from flooding and safety risks to forest visitors. The only exemption is Sealy Lookout in Orara East State Forest.

Visitors should avoid these areas until further notice, said Forestry Corporation of NSW Protection Supervisor Tom Newby.

“There is significant storm and flood damage to Coffs Coast State forest roads, and they are now closed until we are can assess and repair or barricade damaged areas,” Mr Newby said.

“We have seen incidents where bridges and pipes have been washed out, roads have been undermined and people bogged with vehicles stuck in the forest, as well as trees down over roads, so it is vital everyone avoids closed areas.”

Closed forests are Barcoongere, Boambee, Bom Bom, Candole, Conglomerate, Diehappy, Gladstone, Glenugie, Irishman, Little Newry, Lower Bucca, Nambucca, Nana Creek, Never Never, Newfoundland, Newry, Oakes, Orara East, Orara West, Pine Brush, Pine Creek, Roses Creek, Scotchman, Tarkeeth, Tuckers Nob, Viewmont, Wedding Bells and Wild Cattle Creek.

State Forest closures and updated are available at www.forestrycorporation.com.au

Media contact: Rod Campbell