Posted:23/09/2026 16:54
The fire is currently more than 1,400 ha and is not yet controlled.
Current Situation
- The fire is burning within containment lines, with some active fire along the southern edge in the vicinity of Old Armidale Road.
- Firefighters supported by waterbombing aircraft and heavy machinery continue to strengthen containment lines.
- Crews have taken advantage of favourable conditions to strengthen containment lines by blacking out and mopping up with a focus on the southern edges in the vicinity of Old Armidale Road.
- Some rain is falling across the fireground this afternoon, Moderate fire danger is forecast across the New England area today Thursday 24 September.
- Stannifer Road, McLaughlins Lane, Old Armidale Road are now closed.
What you need to do
- Monitor conditions and stay up to date in case the situation changes. Know what you will do if the situation changes.
- Stay alert and monitor your surroundings.
- Watch out for emergency services personnel and follow their directions.
- This means looking out for burning embers, changes in wind direction and smoke. Watch for signs of fire in your area.
- Know what you will do if the fire impacts on where you are. Identify a safer location in case the situation changes. This may include a well cleared area or a solid structure such as a home.
- If you are not prepared to the highest level, leaving early is the safest option.
If you are threatened by fire
- If the fire impacts, seek shelter in a solid structure such as a house to protect yourself from the heat of the fire.
- Bring pets indoors and restrain them, close all doors and windows and turn off air conditioners, keep water running if possible.
- Shelter in a room on the other side of the building from the approaching fire, and one that has water and a clear exit out of the house.
- Monitor both inside and outside for small fires and burning embers and turn sprinklers on if you have them.
- Be careful outdoors after the fire has passed as trees can be unstable and fall.
- If your life is at risk, call Triple Zero (000).
Other Information
- Stay up to date on bush fires in your area by checking Hazards Near Me, the RFS website, listening to your local radio station, or by calling the RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.
- If you have a respiratory condition and may be affected by smoke, activate your health management plan and seek medical advice if necessary. Take precautions, such as staying indoors and closing windows. Check NSW Health
- For information on road closures, check Live Traffic NSW.
- Monitor weather conditions and weather warnings at Bureau of Meteorology.
- For information on temporary school closures in your area, check School Operational Status.
The next update on this fire will be issued by 24/09/2026 08:30 or if the situation changes.
