Forests NSW has closed part of Kerewong State Forest near Kendall village to ensure the safety of the public during the current timber harvesting operation. 

Central Region harvesting team leader Peter Levitzke said the area in Kerewong State Forest bounded by Greens Highway to the north and McLeods Creek Road to the west had been closed as a number of people had been disregarding the safety fencing and signs erected by the harvesting contractor. 

“Harvesting contractors use heavy machinery, and where they operate is the same as any other industrial area, requiring proper protection equipment and the observation of all health and safety requirements,” Mr Levitzke said. 

“People who enter these areas without the proper induction and without advising the contractors put their own and other people’s lives at risk.”  

Mr Levitzke said the contractor was required to maintain a safe working environment and could not be confident of this when people ignored warning signs. 

Pedestrians are also excluded from entering the closed forest.  

“This area of Kerewong State Forest including compartment 133 and 137 will be closed for approximately three months,” Mr Levitzke said. 

“Harvesting operations will be continuing whenever the weather is fine including weekends so people are asked to observe the closures during this period and watch out for advisory signs.  

“There are other nearby areas that local residents can use safely while this harvest is in progress. 

“People found in the area without a letter of consent to enter from Forests NSW will be liable for fines up to $2,200.” 

Further information can be obtained by contacting Mr Levitzke at Forests NSW Wauchope on 02 65869735.

Media contact: Howard Spencer 02 66568825 or 0428696672