UPDATE: The Brassknocker fire, spanning 2,350 hectares in Wadbilliga National Park, is being aggressively managed through a high-tech, collaborative firefighting strategy. Chris Allen, the Far South Coast RFS district manager, assures the community that this fire is being tackled differently than the devastating Black Summer fires of 2019-20, which left lasting scars on the region.
The fire, located north of Yowrie and south of Belowra, approximately 20 kilometers northwest of Cobargo, has prompted heightened community anxiety. “The anxiety of 2019-20 is at the forefront of our minds,” Allen stated in an interview. However, he emphasized that the current conditions and resources are vastly improved. “The fuel load is very different. The water accessibility is very different,” he added.
Firefighting efforts are being bolstered by a fleet of 48 trucks and personnel from Forestry NSW, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, and local RFS teams. Operations include real-time aerial surveillance and strategic backburning to control the fire’s spread. Allen confirmed that while the fire will not be contained within the next three to four days, the situation is under control.
“Hotspots have been identified, but there is no running fire at the moment,” he noted. The current strategy employs both water suppression and intentional backburning, with efforts being coordinated closely among various teams on the ground.
As of January 12, 2023, the fire management strategy is proving effective, with ongoing support from the Merrimans Local Aboriginal Land Council. Allen praised their involvement, stating, “I’ve never worked in an incident management team that’s had this much involvement from our local land council.” This collaboration is crucial, offering insights into cultural sites and guiding resource allocation.
Blaan Davies, chief executive officer of the Merrimans LALC, expressed pride in the partnership, saying, “It was quite a privilege receiving a call from National Parks to be a part of the response to this fire.” The council is working to identify and protect cultural sites that may be affected by the firefighting efforts.
Firefighters are strategically using both vehicle-based and helicopter operations to manage the fire’s behavior. Allen explained that parts of the fire are being actively suppressed while ensuring that backburning operations are conducted safely and effectively.
As the situation develops, authorities are urging residents to stay informed through official channels. The combination of advanced technology, local knowledge, and robust resources marks a significant evolution in fire management, setting a hopeful tone for the community as they navigate this challenging event.
With a collaborative approach in place, the focus remains on controlling the Brassknocker fire and protecting the community from further distress. Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent situation as firefighting efforts continue.
