ANOTHER aircraft and strike team have been deployed to the Moonbi fire in a bid to try and control it, as winds hamper firefighting efforts.
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The Rural Fire Service is throwing everything at the blaze, after a suspicious outbreak earlier this week saw the fire jump containment lines.
The outbreak is centred on the Danglemah Road and Limbri Road area, but on Thursday there was no direct threat to properties.
"We have crews continuing to build containment lines around that outbreak," RFS Superintendent Geoff Hogan said.
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The RFS is continuing to doorknock in the area and residents have been warned about what could unfold if conditions worsen.
Three fixed-wing bombers and four bulldozers are working around the clock, alongside firefighters.
"We have a significant amount of plant and aircraft there to support the firefighters on the ground," Superintendent Hogan said.
"We're trying to wrap up the containment of that outbreak by the weekend."
On Friday, a new strike team of firefighters from the Central West will hit the ground, relieving exhausted firefighters who have battled the wind and the searing temperatures.
Superintendent Hogan said the swirling winds were "creating issues" and hampering control efforts.
The fire has burnt through more than 6300 hectares, but firefighters have managed to save all houses in its path.
Anyone with information on suspicious activity or vehicles in and around the Moonbi Range area, or who could help investigators, is urged to contact Tamworth police on 6768 2999.
Breanna Chillingworth
Northern Daily Leader Senior Crime and Court Reporter
Northern Daily Leader Senior Crime and Court Reporter
