THIS week marks the official end of the 2024-25 fire season for most of New South Wales, with

Rural Fire Service commissioner, Rob Rogers, saying this season crews worked on more than 4100 bush and grass fires, which burnt through more than 61,000 hectares.

“January was our busiest month, but thanks to rainfall in the New Year, the overall fire season was less severe than it could have been,” Mr Rogers said.

“Members have also spent considerable time assisting interstate communities, with crews and aircraft deployed to assist with both fires and floods in Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia.

“Their dedication and selfless efforts have helped protect lives and property across the country, and I thank every member for their commitment to Australian communities,” Mr Rogers said.

Some restrictions have been extended in parts of the state’s central tablelands and north-west, including Walgett, Narrabri, Moree Plains and Gwydir LGAs due to ongoing elevated fire risk.

In addition to bush and grass fires, RFS crews responded to more than 2800 motor vehicle accidents and nearly 700 structure fires.

While the official Bush Fire Danger Period will come to an end at midnight tonight, fire restrictions will be extended in 11 Local Government Areas due to local climatic conditions.

“Restrictions will continue until 13 April for the Bogan, Coonamble, Warren, Walgett, Narrabri, Moree Plains and Gwydir LGAs, and until April 30 in the Mid-Western, Bathurst, Lithgow and Oberon LGAs,” Mr Rogers said.

Despite the season drawing to a close for most of the state, Commissioner Rogers urged residents to remain vigilant, especially west of the Great Dividing Range.

“Grass fuel loads remain a concern, and fires can occur at any time of the year,” he said.

“Fire permits are no longer required for those in areas outside the Bush Fire Danger Period. For those in areas where the Bush Fire Danger Period has been extended, fire permits will still be required.

“No matter the time of year, however, everyone must still notify neighbours and local fire authorities 24 hours before lighting up and this is easy to do via the RFS website.

“I remind all landholders and residents that now is the time to make sure your property is prepared, your family has a bush fire survival plan, and you know exactly what you will do if threatened by fire.”