🚧 Werrikimbe Roads & 1080 Baiting Affect Wauchope Area

Visitors and residents from Wauchope heading towards Werrikimbe National Park are advised of significant road access changes due to recent adverse weather, with a critical warning also issued regarding an ongoing 1080 baiting program in the wider Hastings Macleay area.

Werrikimbe National Park Access Update

Several access roads into Werrikimbe National Park now require 4WD vehicles, and some remain completely closed. Travellers must exercise caution and check conditions before departing.

• Hastings Forest Way: Open, but 4WD only and with caution.
• Racecourse Road: Open, but 4WD only and with caution.
• Cockerawombeeba Road: Currently closed between Forbes Road and North Plateau Road.
• Forbes Road: Open, but 4WD only and with caution.
• Rimau Road: Closed.

Thankfully, popular camping spots such as Brushy Mountain Campground and Plateau Beech Campground remain open. Drivers are particularly urged to check the depth of waterway crossings, especially at the Forbes River crossing on Racecourse Road, before attempting to pass.

1080 Baiting Program in Hastings Macleay Area

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is conducting an extensive aerial and ground baiting program using 1080 poison from 8th June 2025 to 8th December 2025. This initiative targets wild dogs and foxes to protect native wildlife, including threatened species, and to minimise their impact on neighbouring livestock.

This program affects several areas, including the Hastings Macleay Area, which encompasses Werrikimbe National Park and Willi Willi National Park, both popular with Wauchope locals. Signs will be prominently displayed at entry points to baiting locations.

A critical warning is issued to all pet owners: 1080 poison is lethal to domestic cats and dogs. Pets are not permitted in NSW National Parks managed lands. However, if in the vicinity, pets and working dogs must be strictly restrained or muzzled and must not enter baiting areas. In the unfortunate event of accidental poisoning, immediate veterinary assistance is crucial.

For further details on either the road conditions or the baiting program, local residents can contact the relevant NPWS area offices.