By Councillor Mitchell Blue
It’s been more than six years since the Black Summer bush fires dominated the news. Since then, The Hills has changed a lot.
Suburbs like Box Hill, North Kellyville and Annangrove have grown rapidly, with thousands of new residents moving into areas surrounded by bushland. New roads, new estates and new schools might have changed the look of our communities, but one thing hasn’t changed – the bush fire risk.
For many people who have moved to The Hills in recent years, this could be their first summer living in a bush fire prone area and for those that have lived in The Hills for a while, it would be some time since they have experienced a fire. That’s why now is the time to start thinking about what you would do if a fire started nearby.
With El Niño conditions established, forecasts are pointing towards a hotter and drier summer. Large parts of NSW have already experienced below-average rainfall through autumn and winter, with some areas now in drought. If those conditions continue, fire activity may increase through spring and into the 2026-27 bush fire season.
The good news is that being prepared doesn’t have to be complicated.
The Hills District RFS is hosting a series of Fire Preparedness Community Meetings across the district, giving residents the opportunity to hear directly from local firefighters about the risks in their area and the practical steps they can take to prepare.
These sessions will cover:
• What the 2026-27 fire season outlook means for local communities.
• Bush fire risks specific to The Hills landscape, including gullies and bushland reserves.
• Practical actions you can take around your home before summer.
• How to create or update a Bush Fire Survival Plan.
• Why leaving early is often the safest option.
• The chance to ask questions and speak directly with local RFS volunteers.
Upcoming Fire Ready Community Meetings
| Hillside 4th November, 7pm Hillside Public School Glenhaven 12th November, 7pm Glenhaven Community Centre | South Maroota 19th November, 7pm South Maroota Hall Wisemans Ferry 25th November, 7pm Wisemans Ferry Bowling Club |
While major bush fires may feel like a distant memory for some, the conditions that create them haven’t disappeared. Understanding your risk, having a plan and making a few simple preparations now can make a significant difference when fire threatens.
The best time to prepare is before there’s smoke on the horizon. These meetings are a chance to learn from local firefighters, understand the risks in your area and make sure you’re ready for the season ahead.
