🏞️ Local National Parks Face Closures and Ongoing Baiting Programs

Residents and visitors to the Walcha region are advised of several closures and ongoing operations within local national parks, including Carrai State Conservation Area and Cottan-Bimbang National Park. These measures are in place due to severe weather impacts, planned maintenance, and wildlife management initiatives.

Park Closures and Safety Alerts

Many national parks and reserves in the Hastings Macleay and surrounding areas, including parts of Carrai State Conservation Area and Cottan-Bimbang National Park, are currently closed due to widespread flooding and hazardous conditions caused by recent severe weather. Visitors are urged to check conditions before travelling, as parks will only reopen once assessments deem them safe.

• Mary's View Lookout:
• Myrtle Scrub Scenic Drive:

1080 Baiting Program Underway

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is conducting ongoing aerial and ground baiting programs using 1080 (sodium fluoroacetate) poison. This program, scheduled from June 8, 2025, to December 8, 2025, targets wild dogs and foxes.

Areas within the Hastings Macleay region, which include parts of Cottan-Bimbang National Park, Carrai National Park and SCA, The Cells SCA, New England National Park, Pee Dee Nature Reserve, The Castles Nature Reserve, Werrikimbe National Park, Willi Willi National Park, and Mount Seaview Nature Reserve, are part of this program.

The initiative aims to safeguard local wildlife, particularly threatened species, and mitigate the impact of wild dogs on nearby livestock. Signs will be prominently displayed at baiting locations. Park users are reminded that domestic pets are prohibited in NSW National Parks managed lands, and pets or working dogs must be restrained or muzzled when in the vicinity of baiting areas due to the lethal effects of 1080 on cats and dogs. Immediate veterinary attention should be sought in the event of accidental poisoning.

For the latest road information, consult Live Traffic NSW. For specific park inquiries or further details, contact the local NPWS Walcha office.