NSW Rural Fire Service - Southern Border District

The RFSA Southern Border Branch was pleased to attend recent firefighter training held at Berrigan, bringing together members from brigades across the area.

It was encouraging to see new members from Barooga, Tocumwal, Finley and Berrigan taking part in practical learning and developing the skills needed as they progress through their firefighter training.

During the day, RFSA Southern Border Branch Chair Riley Nolen spoke about the role of the RFSA, the support available to volunteers and brigades, and the importance of staying connected and involved within the Association. Members were also presented with RFSA t-shirts.

The Branch thanks Group 1 area and all instructors involved for supporting the next generation of firefighters.

Today, RFS crews from Table Top, Lavington, Splitters Creek and Thurgoona assisted Fire and Rescue NSW crews from 209, 206 and 203 in conducting a hazard reduction burn on Vickers Road, Lavington.

The burn was completed successfully, with all planned objectives achieved.

Please be advised that another hazard reduction burn will be undertaken tomorrow (Saturday) on Elizabeth Mitchell Drive, Thurgoona, near Charles Sturt University.

Residents in the area may notice smoke throughout the day.

Thurgoona Rural Fire Brigade Table Top Rural Fire Brigade Splitters Creek Rural Fire Brigade Lavington Rural Fire Brigade Fire and Rescue NSW Station 203 Albury Central Fire and Rescue NSW Station 206 Albury North Fire and Rescue NSW Station 209 Albury Civic

A hazard reduction burn is planned to be undertaken at Lavington, Albury (Albury City Council) on Friday 15th May 2026

If you live nearby, please consider doing the following:
- Keep doors and windows closed to prevent smoke entering buildings.
- Outdoor items such as outdoor furniture, trampolines, playground equipment etc should be either taken inside or covered. Where this is not practical, items should be hosed down regularly to prevent ember damage.
- Retract plastic or synthetic pool covers to prevent ember damage
- Remove washing from clothes lines.
- Ensure any outdoor pets have a sheltered area.
- If you have asthma or a lung condition, reduce outdoor activities. If smoke levels are high and if shortness of breath or coughing develops, take your reliever medicine or seek medical advice.
- If you are driving a vehicle, slow down, keep windows up and turn headlights on.
Never fly drones or Remote Piloted Aircraft near bush fires or hazard reductions, where other aircraft may be operating. Penalties apply.

For more information check the Hazards Near Me NSW App or visit
https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fires-near-me

Planning to burn on your property? 🔥

If you’re planning a burn, you must notify us at least 24 hours before lighting up.

✅ Notifying us helps inform your neighbours and fire agencies
✅ Prevents unnecessary emergency calls and fire brigade responses
✅ Keeps everyone safe and informed

👉 You also need to let your neighbours know at least 24 hours in advance.

Notifications can be submitted for up to 21 days only, so the information stays clear and relevant.

Find out more 👇
www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/notify

NSW Rural Fire Service
NSW RFS South Western Area Command