Lower North Coast Rural Fire Service backs new deal for fire fighting farmers

"The work they do in that initial phase can make a huge difference to the outcome of that fire."

Ellie Chamberlain
October 14, 2025

Inspector Chris Wilson, Acting District Manager for Lower North Coast Rural Fire Service, says the recent reform allowing farmers and rural landholders to register and use Farm Firefighting Vehicles (FFVs) to respond to bushfires near their property is a welcome change for a region set to experience more heat waves, fires, and stress on firefighting resources.

What happened: Owners of FFVs, like specially modified utes or converted Land Cruisers, can now apply for a conditional registration which would allow them to legally drive their units on public roads when responding to an emergency.

How this changes things: Inspector Wilson told The Mid North Coaster this move “empowers those on the land to act when it matters most and act quickly,” and that the more his District – which services Kempsey shire and Nambucca Valley – can work with land owners, the better.

What’s being said: As the population of volunteer firefighters gets older and local brigades struggle to engage younger people, Wilson said rural landholders are often the first ones on the scene when a bushfire breaks out, especially if it’s within their property or a neighbouring property.

🗣️ “The work they do in that initial phase can make a huge difference to the outcome of that fire,” said Wilson.

Strong community connection is vital: Wilson said when the communication between all firefighting services – RFS, NSW Fire and Rescue, Forestry Corporation and National Parks and Wildlife Service – is strong they can work together to best control bushfires.

🗣️ “Our Farm Firefighting units fit into that model,” said Wilson “That’s why this [reform] is coming into play and that’s why we’re so positive towards it. We're able to strengthen that fire preparedness community safety if we work together.”

Plan updated: NSW RFS has updated its Farm Fire Plan with a Farm Fire Unit Guide to help ensure farmers and RFS work safely together.

Deal cut to allow fire-fighting bush bashers onto MNC roads, but price to be paid

Before October 7, farmers who drove their DIY firefighting vehicles to assist neighbours were putting themselves at legal risk.

Thumbnail: (L) Kundabung RFS truck, picture Lower North Coast RFS Facebook page. (R)An example of a Farm Firefighting Vehicle, picture supplied NSW Government.