Hazard Reductions are notoriously difficult to organise due to the strict conditions for suitable weather. The critical burn at Salvation Creek has been planned and abandoned several times over the past few years due to adverse weather conditions but finally it was carried out on 4th August.
Heavy smoke blanketed Pittwater for most of the day as approximately 165 hectares of bush were burned. The area was roughly triangular In shape, bordered by West Head Road, Towlers Bay Trail and Salvation Creek. Helicopters were deployed and tasked with aerial ignition in steep areas inaccessible to fire crews.
The burn was managed by NPWS and carried out by local RFS brigades. Firefighters patrolled overnight and into the following day to ensure all fires were extinguished.
The weather gods smiled as torrential rain followed the burn, effectively putting out any smouldering trees.
With a hot, dry summer forecast, this hazard reduction effectively creates a buffer against fires coming from the North West.
Images courtesy Jon Matthews & Glenn Andrews