CAPTAIN’S MESSAGE

Bush fires are a threat to all regional and urban fringe communities and Canyonleigh is no exception. We have a responsibility to ensure that our communities, neighbours and families are aware of, and responsible for, bush fire safety.

The Canyonleigh Bush Fire Brigade is made up of dedicated, well trained volunteers ready to assist the community without any reward or recognition.  Even though a serious bush fire has not erupted in the area for many years, the brigade has contained and extinguished many smaller fires that have had the potential to become major incidents.

The population base of Canyonleigh, although small, is growing at a constant rate. Homes and rural holdings are scattered throughout the 320 square kilometre area under the watchful eye of our bush fire brigade. I urge all residents and visitors to keep a diligent watch, especially during bush fire season, and report anything that could risk our safety. With such a large area to service, we are not always able to reach a fire quickly.  So, the sooner you see any smoke and dial ‘000’, the better. If possible you can greatly assist the Brigade by downloading a camera app that allows the GPS position of where you are to imprint on a photo. If you take a photo of the fire and text it to 0484 129 514, that will greatly assist the Brigade in formulating its response.

I would also like to take the opportunity to recognise the contribution and tireless effort of our immediate past Captain, Mark Pearson, who captained our brigade from 2010 to 2019.

I would like to advise is that we will not be issuing Fire Permits for the 2019-2020 bush fire danger period, other than to burn dead animals. Please plan ahead and get all your burning off done prior to 30 September. Note that in high risk years the fire danger period can be bought forward to 30 August.

Whether you are a full-time or part-time resident, or someone who visits friends and relatives on a regular basis, you are invited to join our brigade. Becoming a volunteer has a range of benefits and training opportunities, and you get to know your community and the people a little bit better.

We meet on a regular basis: every Wednesday night at the fire shed. Feel free to drop in for a chat.

If you would like more information, visit the NSW Rural Fire Service and follow the links or contact us via phone, email or Facebook Messenger.

Kind regards

Brett Bannerman

Brigade Captain