Tumbledown Dick Rural Fire Brigade

24/05/2026

What a training weekend for Tumble! 💪🔥

On Saturday, 7 of our members completed their Structural Firefighter recertification — sharpening their skills in interior structural firefighting, systematic search and rescue, and setting up and running BACO. Keeping those skills sharp is what it’s all about.

Then today, two of our members took on the Breathing Apparatus Operator course, learning to operate safely in toxic and smoke-filled environments using self-contained breathing apparatus sets. A big milestone for them and a great addition to our crew’s capabilities!

A huge congratulations to everyone involved this weekend — your commitment to training means our community is in safe hands. 🧡

09/05/2026

A huge Mother’s Day shoutout to the incredible women in our Tumble community — mums, stepmums, grandmas, aunties, fur mums and every mother figure who shows up for the little ones in their lives, all while volunteering their time to protect the Northern Beaches and NSW when it matters most.

The dedication, leadership and heart you bring, especially when needed on the fireground, doesn’t go unnoticed. From your Tumble family, thank you from the bottom of our hearts.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

08/05/2026

Please be aware that there will be a hazard reduction taking place in Duffy’s Forest tomorrow weather permitting. Expect to see or smell smoke and only call 000 if you see an unattended fire.

HAZARD REDUCTION NOTIFICATION – 09/05/2026
Yanada HR, Duffys Forest

The Northern Beaches Rural Fire Service (RFS) will be conducting a hazard reduction burn at the rear of properties on Yanada and Joalah Roads, weather permitting.

Operations are scheduled to commence at approximately 8:30am on Saturday 9th May 2026, with crews conducting regular patrols until the burn is declared safe.

During this time, residents are advised to be mindful of increased traffic along Yanada Road, Namba Road, Joalah Road and Birramal Road in the vicinity of the burn area.

What to expect:

Smoke may impact surrounding areas. Fire may be visible Saturday and into Saturday Night.
Only call 000 if you see unattended fire.

To reduce the impact on your property and health:
- Keep doors and windows closed.
- Bring outdoor furniture under cover.
- Remove washing from clotheslines.
- Ensure pets have a protected area.

If you have asthma or a respiratory condition, limit outdoor activity. If you experience shortness of breath or persistent coughing, use your reliever medication or seek medical advice.

For more information, visit: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

Stay prepared: Live Bush Fire Ready

05/05/2026

It is with a heavy heart that we learnt of the passing of two Marine Rescue volunteers. Our thoughts are with their families, friends and Marine Rescue colleagues as we know words are not adequate at a time like this.

These members were dedicated volunteers and selflessly gave their time to help others at their time of need.

Rest in peace

Last night was the darkest night ever experienced by Marine Rescue NSW.

Marine Rescue NSW volunteers answer the call for help 24/7 and last night six members from Marine Rescue Ballina did just that. They launched with a single mission, to save lives on the water and assist a yacht, reported to be in difficulty off the South Ballina break wall.

Tragically, two of our volunteers lost their lives during the response.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Todd Andrews said the devastating loss is a solemn reminder of the risks faced by volunteers who serve their communities.

“These two men were serving their local community and have made the ultimate sacrifice to help others.

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of the deceased, their fellow crew members, the brave radio operators who handled the difficult communications during the incident, the entire Marine Rescue NSW family and the wider Ballina community during this incredibly difficult time.

“We are supporting our volunteers and their families through professional counselling and chaplaincy support.

“We ask that the privacy of those involved and their families be respected during this difficult time,” Commissioner Andrews said.

26/04/2026

A crew of six from Tumbledown Dick RFB joined today’s McDougall Rd Hazard Reduction in Colo, helping complete a 92ha burn alongside fellow Northern Beaches brigades.

Working deep in the bush protecting local properties, the team successfully put the burn in to prescription at low intensity — safe, effective fuel reduction ahead of fire season.

👏 Big congratulations to Isaac Straatemeier on his first hazard reduction as a Tumble firefighter!

24/04/2026

They shall grow not old,
as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them,
nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun
and in the morning
We will remember them.

Lest we forget

19/04/2026

Weekend Round-Up | Tumbledown Dick Rural Fire Brigade 🚒

Another busy weekend for our crew here in the Tumble Valley!

Saturday’s planned hazard reduction was rained out — but the crew made the most of the day. The Cat 1 got a thorough clean and maintenance check, members refreshed their knowledge of overrun protocols, and the station got a bit of TLC too. Never a wasted day when the gear is in top shape!

Sunday saw a little friendly competition. The morning kicked off with fastest 2 (and 3) drills, with crews racing to get water out through 2x 38mm lines. The quickest team did it in a blistering 39 seconds 🔥 — and live reel plus additional length deployment was nailed in just 20 seconds. Every single group came in well under a minute. Seriously impressive stuff.

The afternoon wrapped up with BACO and locker familiarisation, plus a drive down through Akuna Bay to keep local knowledge sharp. A huge thank you to everyone who gave up their weekend

17/04/2026

With the rain overnight, today’s local hazard reduction has been postponed

**Today's Hazard Reduction has been postponed due to rain fall overnight**

HAZARD REDUCTION NOTIFICATION – 18/04/2026
Bungendore HR Stage 1, Ingleside

The Northern Beaches Rural Fire Service (RFS) will be conducting a hazard reduction burn behid 5 Chilton Road Ingleside, weather permitting.

Operations are scheduled to commence at approximately 10:00am on Saturday 18 April 2026, with crews conducting regular patrols until the burn is declared safe.

During this time, residents are advised to be mindful of increased traffic along Addison Road and Chiltern Road in the vicinity of the burn area.

What to expect:

Smoke may impact surrounding areas. Fire may be visible Saturday evening and into Sunday.

Only call 000 if you see unattended fire.

To reduce the impact on your property and health:
- Keep doors and windows closed.
- Bring outdoor furniture under cover.
- Remove washing from clotheslines.
- Ensure pets have a protected area.

If you have asthma or a respiratory condition, limit outdoor activity. If you experience shortness of breath or persistent coughing, use your reliever medication or seek medical advice.

For more information, visit: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

Stay prepared: Live Bush Fire Ready

17/04/2026

From around 10am tomorrow, Saturday 18 April 2026, we will be involved in conducting a hazard reduction in the Tumble Valley.
Smoke may impact surrounding areas and fire may be visible Saturday evening and into Sunday. Only call 000 if you see unattended fire.

**Today's Hazard Reduction has been postponed due to rain fall overnight**

HAZARD REDUCTION NOTIFICATION – 18/04/2026
Bungendore HR Stage 1, Ingleside

The Northern Beaches Rural Fire Service (RFS) will be conducting a hazard reduction burn behid 5 Chilton Road Ingleside, weather permitting.

Operations are scheduled to commence at approximately 10:00am on Saturday 18 April 2026, with crews conducting regular patrols until the burn is declared safe.

During this time, residents are advised to be mindful of increased traffic along Addison Road and Chiltern Road in the vicinity of the burn area.

What to expect:

Smoke may impact surrounding areas. Fire may be visible Saturday evening and into Sunday.

Only call 000 if you see unattended fire.

To reduce the impact on your property and health:
- Keep doors and windows closed.
- Bring outdoor furniture under cover.
- Remove washing from clotheslines.
- Ensure pets have a protected area.

If you have asthma or a respiratory condition, limit outdoor activity. If you experience shortness of breath or persistent coughing, use your reliever medication or seek medical advice.

For more information, visit: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

Stay prepared: Live Bush Fire Ready

15/04/2026