FIREFIGHTERS don't have enough resources to battle the numerous blazes that surround Tamworth.
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Instead, Rural Fire Service crews are forced to leave blazes they almost have contained for new flare-ups that threaten lives or property.
Volunteer fatigue has quickly become an issue in a relentless season that has charred much of the region.
In an effort to keep their spirits high, children from Bendemeer Preschool took pen to paper to say a well-deserved thank you to firefighters who have worked tirelessly to try to control the blaze on Jalna Road.
Some firefighters have worked 12-hour shifts chasing lightning strikes in Bendemeer.
In Quirindi, RFS Superintendent Michael Brooks helps lead a team managing numerous fires in the district.
"We haven't got enough resources for the fires we've got," he said.
"We're very conscious of our fatigue factor with resources on the ground, plant operators and support people that have been working above and beyond."
Around Tamworth, large fire fronts at Rockview near Barraba, north towards Copeton Dam, Bingara and four blazes in the forests around Nundle are the biggest concerns.
Soaring temperatures, gusty wind conditions and a drop in humidity have created a perfect storm for hellish fires.
Couple that with thunderstorms and lightning strikes and firefighters have had little chance to get on top of things.
Eight fires burn around the Niangala and Nundle area, closer to Tamworth there's a fire at Goat Mountain, Piallaway Road, Attunga, Mount View Road at Moonbi, Halls Creek Road at Halls Creek and Jalna Road at Bendemeer.
There have also been ignitions at Kootingal and more remote locations due to lightning strikes on Wednesday.
Firefighters have been inundated with calls from the concerned public, Superintendent Brooks said.
"Anything that can potentially threaten life or property attracts our priority," he said.
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"It's a big area and we've got a lot of park crews, forestry crews and a South Australian team in to help.
"We've slowed the rate of spread and we're working at containment."
With numerous fires in the Tamworth area, residents are advised to check the NSW RFS Fires Near Me website for up-to-date information.
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
