Bush fires have always been part of life in The Hills. From Glenhaven and Annangrove in 1975, Kenthurst in 1991, through to the devastating fires in 1994 and again in 2002 at Maroota South, Glenorie, and Kenthurst – our community has seen how quickly the landscape can change.
One firefighter remembers Kenthurst in 1991: “Our tankers were the first on the scene and were powerless to control the blaze.” Another recalls Glenorie in 2002: “Something you’ll never forget, and hope you never have to face again.” These aren’t distant memories, they are part of the story of our community.
It has been more than six years since Australia’s last major bush fire season made headlines around the world. In that time, COVID, population growth, and new developments have transformed suburbs like Box Hill, North Kellyville, and Annangrove. But while our streets may look different, the risk of bush fire has not changed.
With El Nino conditions established, there is a high potential for a challenging summer with forecasts indicating an increased likelihood of above-average temperatures and below-average rainfall.
Warmer and drier-than-average conditions during autumn have left many parts of NSW unusually dry, with some regions already experiencing drought. If these conditions persist, fire activity could increase through spring and into the 2026–27 bush fire season.
That’s why The Hills District Rural Fire Brigades and The Hills Shire Council invite you to take part in the 4 Weeks to Fire Ready Challenge, a program designed specifically for The Hills community.
This simple, free program takes bush fire preparedness out of the “too hard basket.” Over four weeks, you’ll receive one short email each week to help you build your own Bush Fire Survival Plan:
• Week 1: Discuss – What’s your plan? Will you stay or will you go? Have the conversation.
• Week 2: Prepare – Get your go-kit ready, clean up your property, and reduce your risk.
• Week 3: Know – Understand fire danger ratings, alerts, and where to find trusted information.
• Week 4: Keep – Keep your plan up to date and stay informed.
Most homes are lost not to flames but to ember attack, burning embers carried on the wind that can travel kilometres ahead of a fire, igniting gutters, gardens, and even brand-new homes in suburban streets. Fires also move so fast that you cannot rely on a fire truck being there when you need it.
A plan doesn’t take long to make. But not having one? That could cost your home, your memories, or your life.
This year, Four Weeks to Fire Ready will host a number of community preparedness and information meetings across The Hills. These meetings will give you and your family an opportunity to learn more about risks, preparedness and Bush Fire Survival Plans as well as meeting your local firefighters.
How to Join
Sign up today by scanning the QR code or visiting https://mailchi.mp/rfs/4w2fr2026
Look out for Get Ready Weekend events hosted by your local RFS Brigade throughout September, where you can learn more, ask questions, and sign up in person.
Don’t wait for fire season to remind you. Prepare now – join your neighbours in the Hills and take the 4 Weeks to Fire Ready Challenge.
