NSW RFS - O'Connell Brigade

09/05/2026

This Mother’s Day, we celebrate the strength, dedication and compassion of mums everywhere, but especially those in our family.

Across the state, thousands of mothers, grandmothers, mothers-in-law, stepmothers and aunties give their time to help protect their communities. Whether they're on the frontline or supporting behind the scenes their contributions are extraordinary.

Today, we thank them for all they do, not just as RFS members, but as leaders and role models in our brigades and communities.

08/05/2026

As we move into the colder months, fire agencies often see an increase in house fires as residents use their fireplaces and heaters to stay warm. With temperatures dropping and possible snow forecast across parts of the state in the coming days, it’s important you know how to stay safe.

Remember, you won’t smell smoke while you’re asleep, so make sure your bleeping smoke alarms are working. A working smoke alarm can save your life and give you and your family valuable time to escape a burning home.

15/04/2026

13/04/2026

Tonight we're training in the O'Connell area. No need to be alarmed if you see the firetrucks out and about.

02/04/2026

Good news — the Bush Fire Danger Period has wrapped up in Bathurst, Lithgow and Oberon Areas.

But before you go firing up the backyard like you’re auditioning for “Australia’s Next Top Bonfire”… 🌪️🔥

A friendly reminder:
You now must notify the NSW RFS and your neighbours 24 hours before lighting any burn. However, if you are in an FRNSW area, you will still need a permit.

It’s quick, easy, and stops your peaceful cleanup from turning into a surprise visit from half the district’s fire trucks.

👉 Submit your burn notification here: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify

Because nothing says “community spirit” like keeping everyone informed before you light things on fire. 😉

for more information visit https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/resources/publications/hazard-reduction

26/02/2026

“…increased risk of intense, fast-moving fires that are difficult to suppress”

Today, AFAC News released the Bushfire Seasonal Outlook for Autumn. Hot and dry conditions over summer have increased dryness across much of NSW. With below average rainfall forecast for autumn, parts of central, southern and eastern NSW may face an increased risk of intense, fast-moving fires that are difficult to supress.

If you live, work or travel in bush fire-prone areas, now is the time to prepare. Review and discuss your bush fire survival plan and stay up to date with the latest warnings and advice.
More details at: https://www.afac.com.au/public-resources/seasonal-bushfire-outlook-autumn-2026

08/02/2026

We wish to send our thanks to everyone who played a part in bringing the bushfire under control yesterday. As well as chopper and fixed wing aircraft there was a large team of RFS members from from various brigades including:
Tarana Volunteer Bushfire Brigade
Raglan Rural Fire Brigade
Eglinton Rural Fire Service
Oberon Headquarters RFS
Mayfield RFS
Back Creek RFS
Bathurst Airbase

We would particularly like to thank local residents who activated their bushfire plan to leave early and followed instructions of fire-fighters on the ground. This allowed our crews to focus on the fire itself and to have clear access to roads. This sort of decision making and action makes our task so much less complicated. Thank you!

Today we have had volunteers busy once again cleaning hoses and trucks, performing maintenance, and restocking.

A crew patrolled the fire ground this morning.
Why? After this good rain? Surely the fire is out!
Fires can burn underground for days and weeks after the fire front passes. Trees can be burning inside and embers can smoulder, unseen, just waiting for the right conditions.

07/02/2026

O'Connell Brigade is on the scene of a fire in our area. We are supported by multiple brigades and also have aircraft assisting. Keep up to date on the Hazards near me app.
This post will not be updated due to firefighting duties.

01/02/2026

Another Extreme fire danger day.
Total fire ban.
Report fires: call 000
Download the ‘Hazards near me’ app and create a watch zone.

27/01/2026

Wednesday 28th January
EXTREME FIRE DANGER RATING
TOTAL FIRE BAN
Report fires: phone 000

25/01/2026

Monday 26th January.
EXTREME FIRE DANGER RATING.