NSW RFS - Bonny Hills Brigade

05/09/2026

Happy Father's Day to all the incredible dads, grandads, stepdads, father figures and mentors in our Bonny Hills NSW RFS Brigade family.

Today we celebrate not only our current members, but also the many past members whose dedication, leadership and service have helped shape our brigade into what it is today.

To the fathers who have answered the pager in the middle of family dinners, left birthday celebrations, missed special occasions, and spent countless hours protecting our community – thank you. Your families make sacrifices alongside you, and we are grateful for their unwavering support.

We are also incredibly fortunate to be a brigade that has seen numerous father and son, and father and daughter combinations serve together over the years. Watching generations volunteer side by side, sharing knowledge, building friendships and continuing a family tradition of serving the community is something truly special, and one of the things that makes our brigade so unique.

We also recognise the father figures within our brigade who have taken the time to mentor, encourage and guide new members, sharing their knowledge and experience with the next generation of firefighters. Your leadership leaves a lasting impact both on and off the fireground.

From everyone at Bonny Hills NSW RFS Brigade, we wish all our current and former members, and every father figure in our community, a very Happy Father's Day. We hope you enjoy a well-deserved day with those who matter most.

Thank you for your service, your commitment, and for the example you set every day.

❤️🚒

05/09/2026

🔥 Bush fire risk is rising again — are you ready? 🔥

After several years of wet weather, grass and scrub have regrown, increasing the risk of bush and grass fires across our region. Even if you don’t live right next to the bush, embers can travel long distances and start fires quickly.

🌾 Living near grasslands or farms?
Recent rain has caused widespread grass growth, and as it dries out, the risk of fast-moving grass fires increases. Be aware, stay alert, and prepare early.

🚜 Living on rural or lifestyle properties?
You don’t need to be right next to the bush to be at risk. Fires can start quickly, and you may not be home when one breaks out. Preparing your property, livestock, and animals ahead of time makes a big difference. Clear around assets, maintain access for fire trucks, and make sure everyone on the property knows your plan.

🚗 Planning to travel?
Bush fires can occur without warning. Before you hit the road:
- Check conditions
- Have a backup plan
- Let people know your movements
- Avoid travel if it’s not safe
- Watch for emergency vehicles
- If you see an unattended fire, call Triple Zero (000)

🛡️ Know your risk and prepare now
Visit myfireplan.com.au to create or update your Bush Fire Survival Plan. It’s quick, easy, and could save lives.

📍 Want to learn more?

Chat with your local RFS brigade this Get Ready Weekend on Saturday 19th September 2026:
🚒 Bonny Hills Fire Station – Jungarra Crescent – 10am–12pm
🌿 Bonny Hills Garden Centre – 10am–12pm

Your safety starts with preparation. Let’s get ready together.

31/08/2026

🔥 FIRE PERMITS REQUIRED FROM 1ST SEPTEMBER 2026 🔥

A reminder to our community that the statutory Bush Fire Danger Period for the Mid Coast District runs from 1st September 2026 to 31st March 2027.

This means that from today, a fire permit is required for burning activities that require a permit under NSW legislation.

🔥 Why do we need fire permits?
Fire permits help ensure fire is used safely during the Bush Fire Danger Period. A permit places conditions on the way a fire is lit and maintained and can only be issued by an authorised Permit Issuing Officer.

The Permit Issuing Officer may add conditions they consider necessary, however all permits have standard conditions, including:
📋 The permit must be carried by the permit holder and be on site when the fire is lit.
👨‍🚒 The permit must remain on site with those present until the fire is extinguished.
🔥 The fire must be supervised at all times unless the permit states otherwise.
📞 The RFS and adjoining neighbours must be notified at least 24 hours before the fire is lit, unless otherwise specified.
🌦️ A permit may be varied, cancelled or suspended depending on weather and fire conditions.

What do I need to do before using fire?

Before lighting your fire, make sure:
✅ The fire can be contained and controlled within the specified area.
🚫 It does not contain toxic materials such as rubber tyres, plastics, paint or other prohibited materials.
💨 It will not cause an air pollution problem by producing excessive amounts of smoke.

If you have a permit, it is your responsibility to check the conditions before lighting your fire. You should also:

🔥 Check whether a Total Fire Ban is in force. If a Total Fire Ban is declared, your fire permit is automatically suspended.
🌫️ Check whether a No Burn Day has been declared by the NSW EPA.
🌦️ Check the expected weather conditions.
📞 Notify and check with your local RFS Fire Control Centre or Fire and Rescue NSW station prior to lighting your fire, as required.
📋 Follow all conditions and restrictions listed on your permit.

Need a fire permit?

You can apply for a permit through the NSW RFS website: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/know-your-risk/Bush-fire-hazards-and-your-property/fire-permits

For information on Fire Danger Ratings and Total Fire Bans, visit: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fdr-and-tobans

Please remember: having a permit does not mean you can simply light a fire whenever you choose. Always check the conditions, weather and restrictions before lighting up.

🔥 Stay safe and burn responsibly. 🚒

29/08/2026

🔥 Is your home ready for bush fire season? 🔥

A well-prepared home is more likely to survive a bush fire and can be easier for you—or firefighters—to defend. It also helps protect your neighbours by reducing the risk of fire spreading.

🏡 Simple steps to prepare your property:
- Clear vegetation and debris from around your home
- Remove flammable items like door mats, wood piles, mulch, leaves, and outdoor furniture
- Clean out gutters to prevent ember ignition
- Ensure hoses reach all areas of your home
- Have a reliable water source (pool, tank, or dam) and a diesel/petrol pump ready

Even if you plan to leave early, these steps can make a big difference. Burning embers can travel long distances, so preparation is key.

💡 Learn more at rfs.nsw.gov.au/prepare

📍 Want hands-on advice?
Join your local RFS brigade this Get Ready Weekend on Saturday 19th September 2026:
🚒 Bonny Hills Fire Station – Jungarra Crescent – 10am–12pm
🌿 Bonny Hills Garden Centre – 10am–12pm

Let’s work together to keep Bonny Hills safe this fire season.

28/08/2026

28/08/2026

22/08/2026

🔥 Getting ready for bush fire season is easier than you think 🔥

This Get Ready Weekend, take the time to review your Bush Fire Survival Plan so you know exactly what to do when a fire threatens. You can create or update your plan online at MyFirePlan.com.au.

💡 What will be your sign to leave?
Don’t wait until you see flames. Leave early on catastrophic fire danger days, or when there’s smoke in your area. Stay informed via the RFS website, RFS social media, and the Hazards Near Me app.

🏠 Where will you go?
Make sure your family has a safe meeting place. If you have pets, choose a location that allows them too.

🎒 What will you take?
Pack a go-bag in advance with:
- Important documents (passports, birth certificates, medical scripts)
- Medications, chargers, water, non-perishable food
- Changes of clothes and anything else essential

📞 Let others know your movements.
Tell neighbours, friends, and family when you’re leaving and confirm when you’ve arrived safely.

🚗 Know your routes.
Roads may close without warning—have alternate routes planned.

📍 Want to learn more?

Chat with your local RFS brigade this Get Ready Weekend on Saturday 19th September 2026:
🚒 Bonny Hills Fire Station – Jungarra Crescent – 10am–12pm
🌿 Bonny Hills Garden Centre – 10am–12pm

Your safety starts with preparation. Let’s get ready together.

18/08/2026

In an emergency, every second counts.

Make sure your property entrance is clearly signed, easy to identify from the road, and fitted with visible property numbers at the main gate or fence line.

This is especially important in rural and semi-rural areas where properties can be difficult to locate at night, in smoke, or during fast moving bush fires.

Clear property identification helps firefighters reach you faster when it matters most.

Take a few minutes to check your signage and ensure your property can be easily identified in an emergency. It could save valuable time when help is on the way.

Learn more: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/prepare

17/08/2026

15/08/2026

🔥 Save The Date for Get Ready Weekend! 🔥

Mark your calendars for Saturday 19th September 2026 and join your local RFS brigade in Bonny Hills to learn how you can prepare for bush fire season.

Where you can find us on the day:
🚒 Bonny Hills Fire Station – Jungarra Crescent – 10am–12pm
🌿 Bonny Hills Garden Centre – 10am–12pm

Come chat with us, grab some resources, and make sure your household is ready. Your safety starts with preparation!