Message from NSW Office of Environment and Heritage
The Waterfall Way fire, believed to have been deliberately lit, continues to burn in steep country between Dorrigo and Thora, and has now moved into the World Heritage listed Dorrigo National Park.
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The decision to close the Waterfall Way is not taken lightly, and we (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage) acknowledge the inconvenience to travellers, workers and business operations and ask for your patience as control operations continue.
Extremely dry conditions and warm weather has seen the fire expand in size over the last 24 hours to over 60 hectares, with further hot weather forecast for the remainder of the week.
Incident Controller Sean McArdle of the Rural Fire Service said public safety is always the main priority for the Bellingen Shire Council, Rural Fire Service, Roads and Maritime Services and the National Parks and Wildlife Service who are working on the fire.
Work has resumed today to clear fallen trees and debris, and to make safe those trees at risk of falling onto the road.
The fire is not yet contained and every effort will be expended to control the eastern edge of the fire near the road to minimise any further impacts on traffic low. Backburning operations may be undertaken while the road is closed.
This fire is thought to be the result of arson which is currently being investigated. Anyone who has information about the fire is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1300 333 000.
People are reminded that fire permits are suspended in the Coffs Harbour and Bellingen shires due to the ongoing very dry conditions
How you can help
If you see something that looks out of place, record the details of vehicles such as the make, model and registration of suspicious vehicles.
Report suspicious behaviour to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
