Valley Heights Rural Fire Brigade

19/08/2026

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-19/bushfire-risk-australia-ahead-of-el-nino-warning/107049892

Fears have been growing around what Australia's spring and summer will look like after the weather bureau declared an El Niño in June, which has the potential to become the strongest on record.

24/07/2026

The FDR Sign (Fire Danger Rating) describe the potential level of danger should a bush fire start. They do not indicate the chance of a fire occurring, although this is a common misconception.
The FDR Sign is important because bush fires can be extremely dangerous, and people need to be forewarned so that they can take action to protect themselves and their community. The sign allows the local community as well passing motorists to know what the current level of threat is.
This sign was able to be purchased and erected outside the Valley Heights Brigade station as a result of a Federal Government Grant by our local member Susan Templeton.
Valley Heights is always looking for new members and if you would like to find out more about the NSW Rural Service email [email protected]

23/06/2026

The Brigade was recently presented with a small gift from Bunnings (Valley Heights) as a gesture of gratitude and appreciation the Service does for the community on the Thank You Responders Day.

23/06/2026

Training continues even through the winter months, getting new members prepared to the Bush Fire Season. Running drills for “Small Fires” and “Property Protection” forms a small part of our Brigade training calendar. It is important that skill levels are maintained.
The Brigade is always looking for new members. For further information on how to join the RFS contact: [email protected]

04/06/2026

Valley Heights Rural Fire Brigade held their Annual General Meeting on the 2 June. Over 35 members were in attendance together, Rob Vinzenz, District Manager Blue Mountains RFS, Group Captain Anthony Black and East Sector Group Captain Greg Corrigan, Deputy Group Captain Col Brown and Deputy Captain Greg Martin. Election for the 2026-2027 officer bearers was than conducted. The results of the key positions were: Captain: Bob Pascoe, Senior Deputy Captain: Warwick Dougherty, President: David McPherson, Treasure: David Clarke, Secretary: Caroline Pyszko.
A number of Long Service Medals were presented as well as course certificates.
The NSW Premier’s Flood Emergency Citation was present to 13 Brigade members for their contribution and service to the 2022-2023 NSW Flood emergency response. During those two years, the state faced compounding catastrophic floods that set new records for rainfall in river catchment and flood levels across many regions.

02/06/2026

On Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st the Safe Working on Roofs course was conducted at Valley Heights Rural Fire Station. The Safe Working on Roofs (SWR) course is specifically designed for brigade members engaged in storm damage operations. Safe Working on Roofs (SWR) is a RFS course that provides learners with the competency to use safety systems for emergency repairs on roofs after storms and fires. There were seven Blue Mountains RFS Brigade members who participated in the course and all passed. A special thanks to the Trainers and Assessors Ben, Jason, Hugh and Luke.

26/03/2026

Valley Heights RFS is honoured to attend another great Community event hosted by Bunnings Valley Heights.

12/01/2026

https://theconversation.com/how-to-protect-yourself-from-bushfire-smoke-272065

Should I use my aircon? Do I need an air purifier? Can indoor plants help? And which masks actually work for smoke?

12/01/2026

https://theconversation.com/when-bushfires-make-their-own-weather-273008

Intense fires can produce storms that make more fire – and they’re becoming more common.