🌳 Storm Aftermath: RFS Responds to Lady Wakehurst Drive

The New South Wales Rural Fire Service (RFS) is currently on scene responding to a flood, storm, and tree down incident along Lady Wakehurst Drive within the Royal National Park.

The incident, reported late on November 3, 2025, has seen RFS crews dispatched to the scenic route, a popular thoroughfare that falls within the Sutherland Council area. While the RFS is primarily known as the lead combat agency for bushfires, its volunteers are extensively trained and equipped to respond to a broad spectrum of emergencies, including structural fires, motor vehicle accidents, and severe storm events within rural districts. They often work in conjunction with the NSW State Emergency Service (SES), the primary combat agency for floods and storms in NSW.

Lady Wakehurst Drive, connecting Audley Weir to Otford, is recognised for its natural beauty but is also known for its susceptibility to closures, particularly due to rockfalls and tree falls following heavy rainfall. Transport for NSW has undertaken significant repair and safety improvement works on various roads within the Royal National Park, addressing major damage and flooding experienced since 2022.

The incident comes as New South Wales navigates its official storm season, which typically runs from September to April, bringing an increased risk of intense storms, strong winds, and heavy rain. Residents in the Royal National Park and wider Sutherland Shire area are urged to remain vigilant and heed advice from emergency services.

For real-time information on incidents and emergency preparedness, residents can refer to the Sutherland Shire Council's Emergency Dashboard, which provides updates from major agencies. In life-threatening emergencies, always call Triple Zero (000), while for flood and storm assistance, contact the NSW SES on 132 500.