NSW RFS - Grattai Brigade

17/10/2026

EGRFS Training 17/10/26

17/10/2026

Today, some of our members took part in a refresher training day covering a range of topics and practical exercises. It was a great opportunity for both new and experienced members to refresh their knowledge, sharpen their skills and reinforce the importance of ongoing training.

The day covered pumping operations, weather awareness, fire overrun procedures and communications, with a live fire scenario thrown in to put our skills into practice.

To top it all off, we were incredibly fortunate to get an up-close look at a Bell 212 “Helitak” firefighting helicopter from Kestrel Aviation, with the pilot providing an informative overview of the aircraft and its role in firefighting operations.

It was a valuable day for everyone involved, with plenty of knowledge shared and skills refreshed.

A big thank you to all the members who turned up and took part!

15/10/2026

After devastating fires impacted their community on the NSW Central Coast. Residents Elise, Paul and Chui Yin reflect on their experiences, what they had done to prepare, what they wish they had known, and the lessons they will take into the future.

What would you do if a fire impacted your community?

Preparation starts long before a fire arrives. Find out how you can prepare for a bush or grass fire at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au and create your bush fire survival plan today at www.myfireplan.com.au.

https://vimeo.com/1204403211/f3664f99fe?fl=pl&fe=cm

This is "Koolewong Reflections - After" by NSW Rural Fire Service on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

14/10/2026

When fire impacted the community of Koolewong on the NSW Central Coast in December of 2025 it moved so quickly that people only had minutes to make life saving decisions.

Residents Elise, Paul and Chui Yin were all in their homes that day and reflect on the decisions they made and the actions they took as the fire impacted their community.

Their experiences provide valuable insights into the importance of understanding your risk and knowing what you will do when fire threatens.

What would you do if a fire starts near you?

Preparation starts long before a fire arrives. Find out how you can prepare for a bush or grass fire at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au and create your bush fire survival plan today at www.myfireplan.com.au.

https://vimeo.com/1204402761/cbdf55da55?fl=pl&fe=cm

This is "Koolewong Reflections - During" by NSW Rural Fire Service on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

13/10/2026

In December 2025, the community of Koolewong on the NSW Central Coast was impacted by bush fire.

Residents Elise, Paul and Chui Yin share how they prepared ahead of the fire, the conversations they had with their families, and the steps they took to get ready.

Preparation starts long before a fire arrives. Find out how you can prepare for a bush or grass fire at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au and create your bush fire survival plan today at www.myfireplan.com.au.

https://vimeo.com/1204402375/471e62a5c2?fl=pl&fe=cm

This is "Koolewong Reflections - Before" by NSW Rural Fire Service on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.

12/10/2026

When a fire started at Calga in early September 2026, Darren and his family were ready.

Darren shares his experience and explains the steps he took before and during the fire to help protect his family and property.

Preparation starts long before a fire arrives. Find out how you can prepare for a bush or grass fire at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au and create your bush fire survival plan today at www.myfireplan.com.au.

https://vimeo.com/1227239009/44ad17db54?fl=pl&fe=cm

11/10/2026

Side-by-side vehicles generate significant heat and are increasingly being linked to bush and grass fires across NSW. Dry vegetation can easily build up around engines and exhaust systems, and contact with rocks or metal can create sparks.

These ignition sources can start a fire without you even noticing, particularly in dry conditions. With elevated fire danger across many areas, small sparks can quickly become large fires. Take extra care, especially on high, extreme or catastrophic fire danger days.

Reduce your risk:
• Regularly clean out grass, leaves, and debris from under and around your vehicle.
• Carry a fire extinguisher and basic firefighting tools when operating.
• Be aware of the vegitation in and around your vechicle esspcially when parked on dry vegetation.
• Check your vehicle for faults or recalls and maintain it properly.
• Ensure any electrical modifications are professionally installed.

Learn more: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/prepare

11/10/2026

Weather for Monday 12/10/2026: District Rating is **HIGH**: FBI 27: T29-32: RH 21-29%: Wind - West 20-25 G35 KPH: ** PERMITS ARE REQUIRED TO BURN **

10/10/2026

In an emergency, every second counts.

Make sure your property entrance is clearly signed, easy to identify from the road, and fitted with visible property numbers at the main gate or fence line.

This is especially important in rural and semi-rural areas where properties can be difficult to locate at night, in smoke, or during fast moving bush fires.

Clear property identification helps firefighters reach you faster when it matters most.

Take a few minutes to check your signage and ensure your property can be easily identified in an emergency. It could save valuable time when help is on the way.

Learn more: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/prepare

09/10/2026

Could a fire truck access your home in an emergency?

When bush fires occur, firefighters need safe and reliable access to your property.

Truck sizes can vary, but a good consideration is our Cat 1 tanker which can be up to 7.8 metres long, 2.5 metres wide, and require a turning circle of approximately 22 metres.

Overgrown vegetation, narrow access tracks, low branches, soft ground, or locked gates can delay emergency response and place crews at risk.

Inspect your property access before fire season and ensure emergency vehicles can enter and exit safely. Good access helps firefighters protect your home, your family, and your community.

The NSW Rural Fire Service recommends property access tracks and driveways have:
• A minimum width of 3.5 metres.
• A vertical clearance of 4 metres from overhanging branches or structures.
• Adequate turning space for large fire appliances.
• All weather surfaces capable of supporting heavy vehicles.
• Clearly accessible gates and entrances.

Clear access can help emergency services reach your property quickly when it matters.

Learn more: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/prepare