Heathcote MP Maryanne Stuart said several bushfire preparedness forums, held next month, will help residents throughout the Illawarra and Sutherland Shire regions plan ahead of a potentially worrisome bushfire season.

Experts have warned excessive fuel loads and hot weather conditions could result in significant bushfires this summer.

Mrs Stuart will host two bushfire preparedness forums in the Illawarra region and two in the Sutherland Shire.

The forums will involve representatives from emergency services such as the Rural Fire Service, SES, NSW Ambulance, Police NSW, Fire NSW and National Parks and Wildlife Services.

Wollongong City Council representatives will also attend the Illawarra forums whilst Sutherland Shire Council declined to attend the Sutherland Shire-based events.

Quotes attributable to Heathcote MP, Maryanne Stuart:

“The forums aim to bring all the emergency services involved in a bushfire emergency, into the one room, to explain what their role is.

“It is also a great opportunity to hear from those services – particularly the RFS – regarding the best way to prepare for a bushfire emergency.

“We are so fortunate in the Heathcote electorate to be surrounded by national parks and the escarpment.

“However, we know that picturesque bushland can also quickly turn into a scene of devastation due to an out-of-control bushfire.

“Thank you to all the departments and agencies who have volunteered their time to attend the forums for the betterment of our community and for always keeping us safe.”

Email [email protected] or call (02) 9548 0144 to RSVP to one of the forums.

RSVPs are not required however they are advised.

Forum dates, times and locations:

Saturday, September 9, 9am-10am, Thirroul Railway Institute Hall (14 Railway Parade, Thirroul).

Saturday, September 9, 11am-12pm, Tradies Helensburgh (30 Boomerang Street, Helensburgh).

Saturday, September 23, 10:30am-11:30am, Bundeena Community and Services Club (69-71 Loftus Street, Bundeena).

Saturday, September 23, 1pm-2pm, Engadine Uniting Church (2 Chipilly Avenue, Engadine).