RFS respond to fast-moving grass fires in Hopefield and Savernake

NSW Rural Fire Service Southern Border operational officer Reynir Potter said the accident led to a fast-moving grass fire on a property off the Riverina Highway.

"The driver didn't realise it came off the trailer was scraping along the road for a kilometre," he said

"We battled a fire with 80 firefighters and 25 appliances, along with Fire Rescue and the CFA.

"We'd like to make special mention of Federation Council for their help.

"Unfortunately, one of the farmers lost 98 hectares of wheat crop."

Crews were able to protect a homestead at the property.

Crews were also sent to a blaze at Savernake, two kilometres north-west of the Savernake fire shed.

Machinery has been lost in that harvester fire at Savernake, which was an isolated incident and contained to about one hectare.

Mr Potter said it was important the public download the Fires Near Me app and report any smoke.

"It's a timely reminder for everyone that even though we have had a whole bunch of rain, we can't be complacent," he said.

Earlier:

Firefighters were called to the intersection of the Riverina Highway and Balldale Road in Hopefield at 2.45pm.

NSW Police has closed the intersection, to the north of Corowa.

There are reports assets are under threat and air support is being considered.

The CFA and Federation Council have been contacted to provide assistance, with damp ground after the weekend's rain posing a risk for vehicles becoming bogged.

Winds of between 15 and 25 kilometres per hour are pushing the grass fire in a southerly direction towards the Riverina Highway.

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