That’s the message being shared this week, after Deniliquin NSW Fire + Rescue brigade was called to attend a fire in the Murray Valley Regional Park, behind Memorial Park, on Saturday.
According to the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, fines of up to $3,300 can apply if you leave a fire unattended in one of its designated areas ... even if only temporarily.
Fines also apply if you light a fire during a state or park determined fire ban.
The Bush Fire Danger period for the Mid Murray Rural Fire Service Zone - which incorporates Deniliquin and district - begins tomorrow.
Deni FRNSW Captain Martin Smith said all agencies follow RFS ruling on the period, which means any permits for burning in the Deni town limits will not be permitted after today.
Big pelican pod
Locals have been amazed in recent days to see a large collection of pelicans enjoying the lagoon behind the Edward River Library.
It’s not uncommon to see one or two of the large birds enjoying our waterways, but we believe they’re not often seen in such large number in the Deniliquin CBD.
One reader estimated a pod of about 20, while others have counted almost 40.
They’re also sharing the lagoon with some new families of ducks.
Interestingly, in writing this snippet, we learned a group of pelicans is not called a flock like most other birds.
In fact, there are several collective nouns for the birds. In flight, they are referred to as a squadron, when swimming they are a pod, and when diving they are referred to as a scoop.
Just a reminder, ducks with young will attack. While possibly not as frightening as when magpies swoop, they will be equally fierce in protecting their babies.
Library holiday fun
Edward River Library is bringing the creativity and excitement these school holidays, with a packed week one program of hands-on activities for kids and families.
Today is set aside for fun with the virtual reality headsets, while tomorrow’s craft sessions has a Ute Muster theme. Participants will design a ute.
Friday and Saturday offers the Splat! program – a colourful maker's space experience.
Spaces are limited and bookings are essential. To reserve your spot, contact the library at 03 5898 3100 or library@edwardriver.nsw.gov.au.
To see what else is available for next week, visit facebook.com/edwardriver.
Mixed grand final emotions
The AFL grand final weekend saw emotions run high across Deniliquin, with Geelong Cats fans left heartbroken after their team fell short in the big game.
Local pubs were packed with supporters decked out in blue and white, hoping for a win, but by the final siren, the mood had shifted to quiet disappointment.
While many in town were backing the Cats, a small but proud group of Brisbane Lions fans had reason to celebrate.
From front bars to backyard barbecues, Deniliquin showed up in full footy spirit.
NRL grand final next
Although perhaps not quite as popular in Deni, the NRL premiership will be decided between Melbourne Storm and the Brisbane Broncos this weekend.
With both teams having lost the grand final in recent years, they will be eager to rectify past grievances, building towards a thrilling showdown.
In similar news, the Bledisloe cup has already been won by the All Blacks, however Australia still have a shot to level the series, and with a lot of luck, take out the Rugby Championship.
The Wallabies are set to play this Saturday at 7.45pm - so they will have to contend with the world-famous Deni Ute Muster.
The NRL grand final kickoff is 7.30pm Sunday, so might be a great way to wind down the weekend.