Council and RFS Launch Four-Week Bushfire Preparedness Challenge

Published on 30 September 2025

With the bushfire season fast approaching, The Hills Shire Council is proudly backing the Four Weeks to Fire Ready Challenge, developed in partnership with the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS), to help residents prepare, protect their families, and safeguard their homes.

This practical, week-by-week guide aims to empower residents to take simple, achievable steps toward bushfire readiness.

Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne, is encouraging all residents to take part.

“This challenge breaks bushfire preparation into manageable weekly actions,” Mayor Byrne said.

“It’s a practical way to build confidence and ensure you’re ready to face the season ahead. Fires can move fast—being prepared can make all the difference.”

Each week focuses on a key aspect of bushfire readiness:

• Week 1 (29 Sep – 5 Oct): Talk with your household about what to do if a bushfire threatens your home
• Week 2 (6 – 12 Oct): Prepare your property—clear gutters, trim vegetation, and remove flammable materials
• Week 3 (13 – 19 Oct): Learn the bushfire alert levels and what each one means
• Week 4 (20 – 26 Oct): Stay informed—know where to get real-time updates and warnings

By completing the challenge, residents will:

• Create a personalised Bush Fire Survival Plan
• Understand Fire Danger Ratings
• Learn how to maintain a defensible space around their home

To join the challenge and access weekly resources, visit Council’s website (www.thehills.nsw.gov.au) and search ‘Bushfire Protection - Be Prepared’.