The NSW Rural Fire Service has paid tribute to fallen firefighters as the peak bushfire season comes to a close.
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Three years of above average rainfall led to a heightened bushfire danger, particularly in the early spring of the 2023/24 season, RFS Commissioner Rob Rogers says.
"RFS crews and other agencies responded to more than 5480 bush and grass fires this season which burned more than 445,000 hectares," he said in a statement on Sunday.
A total of 29 homes and 142 outbuildings were destroyed and hundreds of livestock lost in NSW.
"Tragically, we lost three RFS firefighters. Senior Deputy Captain John Holmes, Captain Leo Fransen and Group Captain Dale Bowles gave the ultimate sacrifice to selflessly protect communities across NSW.
"They lost their lives in the service of others and our thoughts remain with their families and loved ones."
Hazard reduction burns for next year's bushfire season were already underway across the state.
While the bush fire danger period has officially ended in NSW, fire restrictions will remain in place in Mid-Western and Snowy Monaro local government areas.
The high-risk weather season in the ACT also finished on Sunday and controlled burns by urban or rural land holders will no longer require permits.
"Land holders are still asked to notify authorities if they plan to conduct burns," an Emergency Services Agency spokesman said in a statement.
"Despite the end of the official high-risk weather season emergencies can still occur and it is important the Canberra community are prepared all year round."
Victoria's peak fire danger period will conclude on May 1 in most parts of the state, according to the Country Fire Authority.
Australian Associated Press
