National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is planning a hazard reduction burn in Queens Lake State Conservation Area, about 20km south of Port Macquarie, tomorrow Wednesday 12 August 2026, weather permitting.
The 56 hectares burn is located within the block bounded by Plantation/Edge Trail, Ryans Road, 100/8 Trail and 100/3 Trail.
Plantation/Edge Trail, 100/3 Trail and 100/8 Trail will be closed during burn operations, with additional traffic along Ryans Road also to be expected.
NPWS crews will be patrolling the burn throughout the day, and for several days following, to black out edges of the burn boundary.
Access will be restored once it has been assessed as safe to do so. Visitors must check NPWS Alerts for up-to-date information on closures.
The aim of the burn is to reduce fuel levels, helping protect local communities from the impacts of wildfires, and to maintain biodiversity in the area, in particular the resident Koala population that is listed as an asset of intergenerational significance.
Burn timing and intensity is being carefully managed to protect the local koala population throughout the burn operation.
The NPWS aims to minimise disruption to local communities, however residents may experience periods of smoke and ash fall.
People with asthma or other respiratory problems are advised to keep clear of the area or stay indoors, close windows and doors, and follow their health plan.
Drivers in the area are also advised to take care and drive to conditions.
This burn is one of many hazard reduction operations undertaken by NPWS across NSW each year, many with assistance from the Rural Fire Service and Fire and Rescue NSW.
These hazard reduction burns are essential to reduce bushfire fuel loads to help protect the parks, their natural and cultural values, neighbours and communities from summer bushfires.
