The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), with support from the Rural Fire Service (RFS), is planning a hazard reduction burn near Abernethy and Kitchener in Werakata State Conservation Area on Sunday 2 August to Tuesday 4 August 2026, weather permitting.
The 50-hectare burn will reduce fuel near Abernethy Street, Southams Road, and Kearsley South Fire Trail within the Park to help suppress bushfire.
The burn will help protect the local environment, the Kitchener and Abernethy communities and natural assets within Werakata State Conservation Area.
Smoke will be visible to residents in Kitchener, Abernethy, and Quorrobolong. People vulnerable to smoke are encouraged to stay indoors and keep doors and windows closed to reduce exposure.
Traffic control will be located on Abernethy Street to allow the safe passage of vehicles during burning operations. The public is asked to allow extra travel time.
Southams Road and the burn area will be closed to ensure public safety and allow for effective operations. These areas will be reopened once they are assessed as safe. The public are reminded not to enter closed areas. Please see the NPWS alerts web page for updates.
For their safety, the public should not enter closed areas while the operation is underway.
Roads and trails will be reopened once the area is assessed as safe. Visitors must check NPWS Alerts for up-to-date information on closures.
Planned low to moderate intensity burns also aim to improve the park's biodiversity and provide safer access for firefighters.
If you are vulnerable to smoke, try to stay indoors, keeping doors and windows closed to reduce your exposure.
