Crews respond quickly to contain Lane Cove National Park fire

Published: 28th October 2008

Ministerial media release

NSW Minister for Emergency Services Tony Kelly today praised the efforts of firefighters who responded to a fire in the Lane Cove National Park yesterday (27 October).

Mr Kelly said the fire was the first of the season in the Lane Cove National Park.

Mr Kelly said NSW Fire Brigades received 21 Triple Zero calls around noon yesterday reporting a fire at Riverside Drive in the Lane Cove National Park.

"Fire crews from the NSW Fire Brigades, the Rural Fire Service and National Parks and Wildlife Service were quickly on the scene to respond to the fire it could take hold and run into the park," Mr Kelly said.

"Five local Community Fire Units also were activated and put on standby to protect properties bordering the National Park if needed.

"The response to yesterday's fire, particularly given the very hot weather, was tremendous.

"Crews had the fire contained by 4.30pm, limiting the area of burned bushland to about six hectares."

Mr Kelly said fire crews stayed on site until about 8.30pm to mop up and ensure no flare-ups occurred.

"Understandably, a fire in such a busy area of Sydney did cause some delays to afternoon traffic, but I can assure motorists that our firefighters worked hard to minimise disruption for people on their way home."

Mr Kelly said firefighters and police were investigating the cause of the fire.

"The response to this fire was a good outcome for our fire crews and nearby residents, but it also provides an early warning of what might lie ahead this summer," Mr Kelly said.

"I would urge people living in bushfire prone areas to take the time now to prepare their properties ahead of the main heat of the bushfire season."