Gulpa Island in the Murray Valley National Park has been razed by fire after what firefighters have described as an ‘illegal’ campfire.

And it’s not the only blaze to have started this week as a result of ‘illegal’ activity.

Three small fires were extinguished by Deniliquin NSW Fire + Rescue at McLean Beach just before 1am on New Year’s Day.

Acting Captain Les Booth said they were caused by fireworks, with one burned section measuring about 20m by 50m, while the other two were about 10mx20m.

A few days earlier, on December 29, the Mid Murray Rural Fire Service was called to a small fire on Old Morago Rd, east of Deniliquin.

This fire was caused by a discarded camp fire, and burned through timber and about half an acre before being brought under control.

Fires were also reported in the Moama area on Tuesday, with strong winds causing smoke to blanket parts of Deniliquin temporarily.

The National Park fire is expected to continue to burn down for another few weeks.

Mid Murray RFS district coordinator Gerard James said it has burned an area about 2.5ha, and was the result of an “illegal campfire” which was not extinguished correctly.

“It started on December 27 and the National Parks and Wildlife Service will continue to monitor this fire,” Mr James said.

“It is currently contained to an island on the Edward River.

“Due to the island being inaccessible to vehicles, it has burnt out the entire island and it could be a few weeks until it has burnt itself out.

“All campers are advised to avoid the area over the holiday period. There are plenty of other campsites along the river.”

Mr James said all events are a reminder to residents and visitors to the area this summer, and the extended Bush Fire Danger period, which runs through until March.

“Please obey the regulations, and remember that no open fires are permitted in National Parks and Forestry Corporation lands,” he said.

“All camp fires on private property must be properly extinguished with water and not just buried under earth before leaving the site, and fires must not be left unattended.

“We are continually having bush fires start due to careless fires across the zone.

“Most of all, I hope everyone enjoys themselves and stays safe over the holiday period.”

• If you see an unattended fire, please report it to 000 immediately.

• To access the Bush Fire Safety for Campers and Bushwalkers flyer, click here.

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