Released on Wednesday by the Bushfires and Natural Hazards CRC (BNHCRC), the outlook states that the wet conditions throughout central and western parts of NSW over winter will result in prolific grass growth over spring.

This grass growth, combined with a drying phase and summer conditions, could lead to above normal fire potential for central and western grassland areas during summer. 

Despite the outlook, Bathurst Rural Fire Service (RFS) operational officer Gary Hansen said his team isn’t making any predictions about the season just yet.

“Last year we had a prediction for a rather bad fire season, but the weather helped us,” he said.

However, Mr Hansen said the RFS is concerned about the conditions going into the fire season and will be monitoring them.

In the event of a fire, the team is prepared to act thanks to the pre-season preparation for staff, vehicles and equipment.

“We have almost a full compliment of staff at the moment; we’re only one officer short of our ten,” Mr Hansen said.

Bathurst residents are advised to err on the side of caution and prepare themselves for the fire season sooner rather than later.

“The best thing they can do is prepare their properties and homes before the fire season and practice their bush fire survival plan,” Mr Hansen said.

People can find plans, tips and fact sheets to help them prepare for a bush fire by visiting www.rfs.nsw.gov.au and clicking on the resources tab.