VOLUNTEER firefighters are in their fourth day of battling an ever-expanding fire at Long Point, with crews stretched and containment lines still being created.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Yesterday, crews kept working on building containment lines around the blaze to protect several isolated properties in the area.
A NSW Rural Fire Service Canobolas Zone spokesperson said crews worked on preventing the flames from escaping over a ridge and into a valley on the fire’s southern perimeter.
“[They were] strengthening containment lines on the south side and back burning with incendiary devices,” the spokesperson said.
“This was our weakest link.”
Since the blaze started on New Year’s Eve 475 hectares have been scorched.
Still on scene yesterday were 19 tankers and 85 volunteers, along with seven helicopters, which were tasked to douse outbreaks within the fire zone.
Canobolas Zone manager David Hoadley thanked the many volunteer firefighters who have given up their time to assist at the blaze.
“Excellent work by volunteers on Tuesday, there was awful conditions on the total fire ban and I want to congratulate them for not letting the fire spread,” he said.
“Well done for working during their holidays.”
With ongoing work at the fireground, Mr Hoadley said residents should still expect to see some smoke today.
nadine.morton@fairfaxmedia.com.au
