The NSW Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) and National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) fire crews have been fighting fires across the Kempsey Shire. 

Over the weekend the fires west of Kempsey destroyed 4 sheds however 

RFS crews managed to save the four houses at three separate fires in the Bellbrook area with, using aerial water bombing from helicopters and ground-based crews. 

Specialist fire investigators are looking into the cause of several of the fires around the shire, with due to begin on the Bellbrook area fires today.

Of particular concern has been the Maria River fire burning in Limeburners Creek National Park and surrounding private property. The Limeburners bushfire started on Tuesday afternoon and has moved about 9km to the east-north-east.

It has crossed Point Plomer Rd, into the national park, and grown to nearly 3000ha.

The cause of the fire is the subject of investigation by the RFS.

RFS Lower North Coast Zone manager Lachlann Ison said current fire conditions were going to continue, with no significant rainfall forecast.

“As well as the Maria River fire we are also monitoring large fires burning in the Bellbrook area," he said yesterday.

"In total we have 14 fires burning in the Kempsey area covering about 7000ha.

“Six of the 14 fires are still burning in remote areas with broad containment strategies. The remaining eight fires are contained and are being patrolled by local crews.

“Two NSW RFS fire investigators will be working on determining cause and origin on fires across the Kempsey Shire. These fires will be fully investigated and the appropriate action taken.” 

NSWRFS personnel are conducting aerial reconnaissance of all 14 fires to establish the active edges of the fires so the incident management team can develop containment strategies. 

This reconnaissance will also provide the community with maps for the RFS website, as well as smart phone apps and social media.

Superintendant Ison said all residents in Kempsey Shire should take note of the fires and prepare their Bushfire Survival Plan and property now.

“If you have not already prepared for the bushfire season, then you must act now,” he said.

“Everyone should be using this time to prepare their properties, such as clearing their gutters and removing leaf litter and other fire fuel from around their homes.

“There is no room for complacency when it comes to bushfire safety.”