NSW Rural Fire Service - Lake George

13/06/2024

Last Saturday, the Lake George District honoured the service of its volunteer members.

Recipients were presented with National Emergency Medals, National Medals and Long Service Medals representing and recognising over 300 years of collective service to community.

We congratulate and thank them all again for their service and dedication to community not only in frontline firefighting roles, but in the important support roles that ensure trucks roll out the door 24/7 at a moments notice.

We also recognise and thank their families. Without their support, this service simply cant happen.

11/06/2024

15/05/2024

Police are appealing for public assistance to locate a man missing from Queanbeyan.

Tekleselassie, age 32, was last seen leaving a supermarket in Riverside Plaza on Monaro St, Queanbeyan on Friday 10 May 2024.

When he could not be located or contacted, Tekleselassie was reported missing yesterday (Tuesday 14 May 2024) to officers from Monaro Police District Police, who commenced inquiries to locate him.

Police and family hold concerns for his welfare.

Tekleselassie is described as being of African appearance, about 155cm tall, of thin build and short black hair.

He was last seen wearing a uniform.

Tekleselassie is known to frequent the Queanbeyan area and is believed have been in the Mount Jerrabomberra area yesterday.

https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/news/article?id=111961

22/04/2024

Weather permitting, Lake George District crews will be undertaking a Hazard Reduction, Half Moon Road, Mongarlowe on Tuesday the 23rd of April.

This important Hazard Reduction will provide strategic removal of high fuel loads adjacent to the Mongarlowe community. Residents can expect smoke in the vicinity from 9.30am tomorrow.

For information on this Hazard Reduction, and Hazard Reduction activities across NSW, please go to https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/hazard-reductions

18/04/2024

Land managers and fire agencies continue to take advantage of favourable conditions to undertake hazard reduction burns in the Snowy Valleys and Snowy Monaro areas. Smoke from these burns may be experienced in the Canberra, Queanbeyan, Jindabyne and Cooma areas and is likely to settle overnight in low lying areas.

For more information on hazard reduction burns near you, visit the Hazards Near Me app or visit https://brnw.ch/21wIVBE. ACT Emergency Services Agency

17/04/2024

Over coming days, land managers and fire agencies will be conducting a number of hazard reduction burns across the state, with several burns occurring in the Snowy Valleys and Snowy Monaro LGAs.

The resulting smoke from these burns is likely to affect areas around Cooma, Jindabyne, Canberra and Queanbeyan over the next few days. Smoke is likely to settle overnight near the burns and in low lying valleys and clear later in the week.

For more information on hazards reductions burns near you, visit the Hazards Near Me app and the website, which includes a list and map of scheduled burns: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/hr

01/04/2024

The Bush Fire Danger Period has ended for Queanbeyan Palerang Local Government Area.

The Statutory Bushfire Danger Period ended for residents within the Queanbeyan - Palerang Local Government Area on April 1st, 2024.

Despite the seasonal change, we ask that residents still follow some important steps for safe burning.

- Landholders are still required to notify by going to the below link at least 24 hours prior to burning.
https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/BFDP/burn-notifications

- You still need to notify adjacent landholders to your property 24 hours prior to burning.

- Despite the milder conditions, we ask that people still exercise caution and ensure they are burning safely. For some tips on how to do so, please go to the following link
https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/farm-fire-safety/safeburning

There are simple things you can do to make sure you use fire safely on your property and avoid becoming the fire risk to your community.

06/03/2024

The NSW RFS will be conducting a hazard reduction (HR) burn, scheduled for Saturday 9th March and is likely to continue into Sunday 10th March.

The HR will be on the Western side of Crace Lane in Brindabella.

The smoke from this burn may settle over Brindabella and some areas of the ACT over the weekend.

Please only call Triple Zero (000) if you see unattended fire. For more information visit the Hazards Near Me app or the website: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/hr”

05/03/2024

Vale John ‘Jack’ Sealey AFSM
26/11/1924 – 05/03/2024

Jack has been an operational member of the Lake George Communications Brigade, formally known as Operational Support Group (OSG) since it was established.

Jack was the original member of the ‘Comms Team’ bringing his knowledge of Radio Telephony from London, Australia and WWll to the then Yarrowlumla Shire Council, where he worked after the war.

Jack was elected the first President of the newly constituted Operations Support Group in 2006. He remained in this role until 2011, when forced by his other commitments in the community to step down. He did however have enough time to stay committed as a Deputy Communications Officer, and therefore still part of the Brigade Executive.

A recipient of the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) in 1999 was to him, a highlight of his years of community service. His knowledge of the local area, knowledge of radio communications, organisational ability and good character were deeply valuable to the NSW Rural Fire Service as a whole. He was regarded by all members who knew him as a rock of support during times of hardship and turmoil. Jack was presented the Australia Day Queanbeyan City Citizen of the Year Award in 2012 for his tireless commitment to the community.

Jack held the honour of being a Life Member of the Lake George Communications Brigade (OSG) and a valued member of the NSW Rural Fire Service since joining in July 1960.

We send our love and condolences to Jacks family and friends

30/01/2024

Teams are currently working around the clock on a major capability boost for Lake George District Members with the roll-out of Mobile Data Terminals (MDT).

Mobile Data Terminals (MDT's) are a touchscreen tablet that give crews access to a range of critical functions such as

- Two-way, real-time sharing of operational intelligence between members in the field and Incident Management Teams.

- Responding crews, Incident Controllers and Incident Management Teams can access a single source of incident information, enabling better pre-incident preparation and informing actions by crews and strike teams

- Communicate with existing RFS systems improving dispatch and response capability

- Simplified data collection to improve data quality and inform decision-making

A total of 56 Mobile Data Terminals are being installed at two locations in Braidwood and Queanbeyan. A huge thanks to the teams working hard to coordinate this effort.

It's a very welcome investment in capability and operational response not only in this District, but across NSW in support of our communities

25/01/2024

A huge congratulations to all recipients of this special honour which includes our very own District Manager, Superintendent Paul Jones. Congratulations PJ from a very proud District.

Congratulations to the eight RFS members named as recipients of the Australian Fire Service Medal (AFSM) in the 2024 Australia Day Honours. The AFSM recognises the distinguished service of individuals in a fire service.

Our sincere thanks for your combined more than 350 years of commitment and service to the community.
• Deputy Captain Roberta (Bobbie) Colbran, Hawkesbury Communications/Grose Wold Rural Fire Brigades (Hawkesbury)
• Group Captain (Retired) Keith Thomas Driver, Lowanna Rural Fire Brigade (Coffs Coast)
• Group Captain Michael Gilder, Gummun Rural Fire Brigade (Upper Hunter)
• Superintendent Paul William Jones (Lake George)
• Group Captain Barry William Myers, Kariong Rural Fire Brigade (Central Coast)
• Group Officer George Alfred Nicholson, Grattai Rural Fire Brigade (Cudgegong)
• Group Captain John Thomas Page, Coaldale Rural Fire Brigade (Clarence Valley)
• Group Captain Barry Lawrence Richard, Jenolan Caves Rural Fire Brigade (Chifley Lithgow)

For more information on this year recipients, visit: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/news-and-media/general-news/eight-rfs-members-awarded-australian-fire-service-medal

12/12/2023

The RFS has confirmed the death of one of its firefighters during an emergency response in the Moama area.

Late this afternoon the volunteer firefighter was responding to a car fire when it is understood he suffered a medical episode. Fellow RFS firefighters rendered immediate medical assistance until ambulance crews arrived, however despite everyone’s best efforts the gentleman was tragically pronounced dead.

RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers has expressed his profound grief at the loss, acknowledging the impact this tragedy will have on the RFS and the wider community.

“Today, we mourn the devastating loss of another dedicated volunteer who, without hesitation, put himself on the front line to protect others,” said Commissioner Rogers.

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with his family, friends, and firefighting colleagues during this incredibly difficult time.

“We recognise the significant emotional toll a tragedy such as this has on our tight-knit RFS community and we will support his family and fellow brigade members in every way we can”.

The identity of the RFS firefighter is currently being withheld.

06/12/2023

Scorching conditions are expected to persist across the region for at least a week. With the extreme heat and the chance of electrical storms and high winds, there is no better time to prepare and plan.

As people start to travel around the State for holidays, make sure you closely monitor conditions for any new fires by accessing the Hazards Near Me App on your phone or going to the NSW Rural Fire Service Website.

29/11/2023

Severe Thunderstorm Warning - Canberra and Queanbeyan for HEAVY RAINFALL.

The Bureau of Meteorology warns that, severe thunderstorms are forecast to affect Hall and Gungahlin by 12:40 pm and Belconnen, Canberra Civic, Queanbeyan, Tuggeranong, Canberra Airport, South Canberra, Weston Creek and Woden Valley by 1:10 pm. Heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding is likely.

👉 Keep clear of creeks and storm drains.
👉 Don't walk, ride your bike or drive through flood water.
👉 If you are trapped by flash flooding, seek refuge in the highest available place and ring 000 if you need rescue.
👉 Unplug computers and appliances.
👉 Avoid using the phone during the storm.
👉 Stay indoors away from windows, and keep children and pets indoors as well.
📞 For emergency help in floods and storms, ring the NSW SES on 132 500.

View all warnings: http://www.bom.gov.au/nsw/warnings/

Issued at 12:10 pm Wednesday, 29 November 2023. The next warning is due to be issued by 1:10 pm.

NSW SES - Queanbeyan Unit

26/11/2023

Yesterday students from Braidwood Central School were presented with their graduation certificates completing their School Cadet Program.

This is the 17th year of Cadets at Braidwood Central School and a number of the volunteer team delivering the course, were themselves former cadets.

The week long program covered key areas such as preparedness, the role of the RFS in the community and firefighting drills. At the conclusion of the program, all candidates enthusiastically demonstrated their newly acquired skills at a School Assembly.

All of the candidates walked away with a strong sense of crew culture, teamwork and mutual respect as they worked collectively to supress simulated fire.

Congratulations to the graduating class of 2023 and a massive thanks to the volunteer team who spent their week delivering this rewarding course for the students.

📸: Danny King

18/11/2023

Hazard Reduction - Bingley Way, Wamboin

Weather permitting, crews will complete a Hazard Reduction at Bingley Way Wamboin on Monday the 20th of November.

The Hazard Reduction will be well-resourced by crews and burnt within well-established control lines.

Residents in the adjacent area have received a letter outlining the details of the burn activity.

Please stay up to date with Hazard Reduction activity by going to;

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/hazard-reductions

30/10/2023

The Fire Danger Rating for Tuesday the 31st of October in the Lake George District is High. All permits are suspended

30/10/2023

Severe Weather Warning for Damaging Winds.

A Severe Weather Warning for Damaging Winds has been issued across the southern ranges.

With an Extreme Fire Danger Rating in place for the Lake George District today, we ask that the community remain vigilant and ready to act.

Under an Extreme Fire Danger Rating, you need to take action now to protect your life and property. These are dangerous fire conditions.

- Check your bush fire plan and ensure that your property is fire ready.
- If a fire starts, take immediate action.
- If you and your property are not prepared to the highest level, go to a safer location well before the fire impacts.
- Reconsider travel through bush fire risk areas.

A Total Fire Ban is in place so report all fires to 000 immediately.

Over 80 fires are currently burning across the state with a number burning uncontrolled.

at 11am, there are no fires burning within the Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council area.

To stay up to date about fires in the district and across the state, use the Hazards Near Me App on your phone and go to; https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fires-near-me

29/10/2023

A TOTAL FIRE BAN is in place across the Queanbeyan Palerang LGA today, Monday 30 October 2023, as the fire weather forecast is EXTREME.
An Extreme Fire Danger Rating means:
- All permits are suspended.
- These are dangerous fire conditions.
- Check your bush fire plan and ensure that your property is fire ready.
- If a fire starts, take immediate action.
- If you and your property are not prepared to the highest level, go to a safer location well before the fire impacts.
- Reconsider travel through bushfire risk areas.
- We ask the community to not engage in general-purpose hot works (such as welding, grinding or gas cutting or any activity that produces a spark or flame and reconsider activities such as using a tractor or slashing due to the dry grass.

More information about what you can and can't do during a Total Fire Ban can be found at https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fdr-and-tobans/total-fire-ban-rules.

Stay up to date by downloading the Hazards Near Me App on your phone or going to the NSW Rural Fire Service website www.rfs.nsw.gov.au and report all fires to 000.

29/10/2023

A TOTAL FIRE BAN will be in place across the Queanbeyan Palerang LGA tomorrow, Monday 30 October 2023, as the fire weather forecast is EXTREME.

Now is the time to plan for tomorrow's elevated fire risk. An Extreme Fire Danger Rating means:
- All permits are suspended
- These are dangerous fire conditions.
- Check your bush fire plan and ensure that your property is fire ready.
- If a fire starts, take immediate action.
- If you and your property are not prepared to the highest level, go to a safer location well before the fire impacts.
- Reconsider travel through bushfire risk areas.
- We ask the community to not engage in general-purpose hot works (such as welding, grinding or gas cutting or any activity that produces a spark or flame and reconsider activities such as using a tractor or slashing due to the dry grass.

Stay up to date by downloading the Hazards Near Me App on your phone or going to the NSW Rural Fire Service website www.rfs.nsw.gov.au and report all fires to 000.

19/09/2023

Over 30 Firefighters assisted by heavy plant and aviation have worked hard to bring a fast burning fire under control at Oallen.

The fire remains at Advice level and no properties are under threat.

With the Bushfire Danger Period starting for the Lake George District on October 1st, this is a timely reminder that we may be in for a challenging few months ahead.

We implore the community to again revisit their bushfire survival plans and ensure they are up to date.

We also ask that landholders exercise extreme caution when undertaking pile burns on their property.

To make a bushfire survival plan, please go to;
https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/bush-fire-survival-plan

To stay up to date with fires in your area and across the region, download the Hazards Near Me App on your phone or go to;
https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fires-near-me

19/09/2023

Crews are on scene with additional resources inbound to a fast moving grass and scrub fire at Corang Post Office Road, Oallen. There is currently no report of property threat.

We ask that community in the area please monitor the NSW Rural Fire Service Website and follow the Hazards Near Me App on their phones to monitor any change in the fires status.

www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

19/09/2023

A weighted response from crews assisted by ACT units has contained a fire burning through scrub at Poppet Road, Wamboin.

Please stay up to date by going to the NSW Rural Fire Service Website or downloading the Hazards Near Me App on your phone.

18/09/2023

Crews are currently on scene assisting Fire and Rescue NSW Station 236 Braidwood with a structure fire at Saleyards Lane, Braidwood. A single dwelling is fully involved. There is no current risk to surrounding property. We ask that people in the area exercise caution to allow crews to work safely in bringing the fire under control

18/08/2023

Crews are currently working hard to round up a fast moving grass fire at Quists Road, Majors Creek.

There are no properties under threat and it is expected that the fire will shortly be brought under control.

Stay up to date with fires in your are by downloading the Hazards Near Me application on your phone or going to;

https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fires-near-me

16/08/2023

Weather permitting, National Parks and Wildlife Services will be undertaking a Hazard Reduction at Hoskingtown Road, Bungendore today.

Smoke may be visible in the area throughout the day.

To stay up to date with hazard reduction activities in the area, go to;

https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/hazard-reductions

01/08/2023

Weather permitting, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service will be conducting a Hazard Reduction Burn in the Queanbeyan Grasslands adjacent to Lanyon Drive today, Wednesday the 2nd of August.

For the latest information on Hazard Reductions locally and across the state, please go to

https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/hazard-reductions

31/07/2023

Are you thinking of doing some burning off on your property?

In recent weeks, Lake George District volunteers have attended a number of unnotified and escaped pile burns.

Remember, if you are burning, it is your responsibility to do so safely.

You must notify and register your intention to burn by going to;
https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/BFDP/burn-notifications

A helpful guide on how to burn safely can also be found by going to;
https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/farm-fire-safety/safeburning

A very dry winter off the back of two wet years means there is a lot of vegetation that is drying out rapidly. Please undertake your burn responsibly and call 000 immediately if your fire gets out of control.

There are simple things you can do to make sure you use fire safely on your property and avoid becoming the fire risk to your community.

22/07/2023

Crews will shortly commence a Hazard Reduction at Bingley Way, Wamboin.

This important hazard reduction will reduce fuel loading in 70 hectares of bushland adjacent to properties in Wamboin ahead of the fire season.

Smoke may be visible in the area throughout the day.

The exercise is well-resourced with a number of crews on scene.

Stay up to date with hazard reductions by going to www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/hr

21/07/2023

Please note that smoke may be visible on the Kings Highway near the intersection of Bluebell Road, Northangera (east of Braidwood), due to a hazard reduction which is expected to continue over this coming weekend (22-23 July 2023).