BREAKING: A NATURAL disaster has been declared for the Greater Taree LGA after intense bush fires struck the region at the weekend.
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Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Michael Gallacher said the bush fire started on Saturday afternoon in the Upper Landsdowne area and quickly spread and required a multi-agency approach.
“Seven properties sustained damage and/or loss which includes fencing, water tanks, stock feed, a tipper truck, two sheds, two tractors and a cattle loading yard,” Minister Gallacher said.
“The Rural Fire Service issued an Emergency Warning at approximately 4.00pm, stating that the fire was burning in severe fire danger conditions and was expected to impact on properties in Gungully Road off Yarrett Road Upper Lansdowne.
“An Emergency Alert telephone message was sent to properties in these areas to inform them of the threat.
Minister Gallacher said the declaration triggers a number of disaster assistance schemes to assist with the cost of disaster relief and recovery.
These disaster assistance schemes are made available by the NSW Government through the NSW Disaster Assistance Arrangements and they are supported by the Commonwealth Government through the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements.
"Disaster relief arrangements provide an important safety net to those affected by bush and grass fires,"he said.