⚠️ Werrikimbe Park Alerts: Road Changes & Baiting Program

Wauchope residents and visitors looking to explore Werrikimbe National Park are urged to take note of important safety alerts regarding road access and an ongoing baiting program.

Road Access Update for Werrikimbe NP

Recent adverse weather conditions have significantly impacted access roads within and leading to Werrikimbe National Park. Drivers should exercise extreme caution, as some sections are now only accessible by 4WD vehicles, while others remain closed.

• Hastings Forest Way and Racecourse Road are open but require 4WD vehicles due to hazardous conditions.
• Cockerawombeeba Road is currently closed between Forbes Road and North Plateau Road.
• Forbes Road is open, but only accessible by 4WD.
• Rimau Road remains closed.

Visitors are reminded that both Brushy Mountain Campground and Plateau Beech Campground are open. However, anyone planning to drive through waterway crossings, especially the Forbes River crossing on Racecourse Road, should check the water depth carefully before proceeding.

1080 Baiting Program Underway

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is conducting an ongoing aerial and ground baiting program within Werrikimbe National Park as part of a wider effort across the Hastings Macleay Area. The program, running from 8th June 2025 to 8th December 2025, utilises 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) poison to control wild dogs and foxes.

This initiative aims to minimise predator impacts on local wildlife, particularly threatened species, and protect neighbouring livestock. Signs will be prominently displayed at baiting locations. It is crucial for domestic pet owners to remember that pets are not permitted in NSW National Parks managed lands, as 1080 is lethal to cats and dogs. Pets and working dogs must be restrained or muzzled if in the vicinity and must not enter baiting areas. In the unfortunate event of accidental poisoning, immediate veterinary assistance should be sought.

For further information, locals are encouraged to contact their local NPWS area office.