Bush Fire Update - Friday 15 November
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Published on 15 November 2019
Byron Shire Council extends its gratitude to the Rural Fire Service volunteers who have been fighting bush fires and helping locals protect their property.
The bush fire threat from the Mt Nardi fire has eased with outbreaks being managed by the Rural Fire Service (RFS) but people are reminded to remain vigilant because the fire is still burning.
People in bush fire areas are advised by the RFS to:
Evacuation centre The evacuation centre at the Cavanbah Centre is open, managed by staff from the NSW Department of Community and Justice. It will remain open over the weekend until the situation is reassessed on Monday 18 November. The evacuation centre at the Mullumbimby Ex-Services Club closed on 13 November.
Additional bush fire assistance now available for NSW communities Disaster assistance is now being provided through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
The Byron Shire has been included in the Statewide Natural Disaster Declaration, made by the NSW Government Department of Primary Industries, Rural Assistance Authority this week.
This means that Byron Shire residents affected by the bush fires may be eligible for a range of financial assistance from the NSW Government.
Disaster Relief Grants are available, dependent on eligibility. Further information about these grants can only be provided by calling the Disaster Welfare Assistance Line 1800 018 444.
Service NSW can replace personal documents free of charge including birth certificates, marriage certificates, number plates, licences. Visit a Service NSW centre or call 13 77 88.
Local Land Services is assisting with emergency fodder, stock water and assessment of animals. For assistance contact 1800 814 647.
Department of Primary Industries - Rural Assistance Authority is enabling the following assistance and applicants have until 13 May 2020 to apply:
Guidelines, forms and further information can be viewed and downloaded at: https://www.raa.nsw.gov.au/disaster-assistance/declared-natural-disasters
Accommodation, pets and access to services The Mullumbimby and District Neighbourhood Centre (MDNC) is coordinating offers of accommodation and care of companion animals. The MDNC is operating this weekend (16-17 November) to provide help and advice if needed.
Email [email protected] Phone: 02 6684 1286
The centre will also be offering its normal services supporting those in crisis, providing showers, community meals etc.
Horses The Mullumbimby Showgrounds remains open for horse owners in bush fire prone areas. If you need assistance please contact the Department of Primary Industries on 1800 814 647.
Please note there is only space for a limited number of horses and owners need to provide fodder and water troughs. Owners need to register with staff/ volunteers at the site and stay on site with their animals.
How can you help? Make a donation Would you like to do something for local people affected by the bush fires? The Mullumbimby and District Neighbourhood Centre (MDNC) is now accepting online donations via its website and can also accept gift vouchers. https://mdnc.org.au/donate/ There are no administration or handling fees which means that your donation will be passed on, in full, to people in the community who are in need of help.
The MDNC is also accepting food donations.
Injured wildlife Injured wildlife can be reported to WIRES Northern Rivers. WIRES operates a 24 hour service. Call 6628 1898 in the event of a wildlife emergency. WIRES suggests putting water out to support displaced animals, and keeping domestic pets under control. Animals will be on the move as a result of the fire activity. www.wiresnr.org
Friends of the Koala Inc. also operates a 24 hour service for koala rescues. Call 6622 1233 or www.friendsofthekoala.org.
School closures For information about school closures check the School Safety page on the Department of Education website. education.nsw.gov.au/news/announcements/list-of-schools-temporarily-closed-due-to-fires.
Road closures For information on local road closures in Byron Shire go to www.myroadinfo.com.au.
Waste collection in rural areas There may be delays in waste services in some areas because of bush fires. Council and the collection contractor will work together to ensure affected areas are serviced as soon as possible.
For more information visit Council’s webpage: https://www.byron.nsw.gov.au/Council/Bush-Fire-Information
For further details contact Council’s Media and Communications Coordinator Annie Lewis on 0419 609 189.