As thousands of campers descend on the Deniliquin Ute Muster this weekend, festival-goers are being reminded to put safety first when enjoying one of the event’s most popular traditions - the campfire.
The Deni Play on the Plains Festival Committee has again approved campfires within the camping grounds, allowing patrons to enjoy the social atmosphere that has long been part of the iconic event.
General camping is included with admission, with patrons able to stay on site from Thursday through to the conclusion of the event.
A number of emergency agencies will be helping the Deni Ute Muster team monitor safety conditions at the event this year, including the NSW Rural Fire Service.
RFS Mid Murray district coordinator Gerard James said campers must follow several important rules to ensure fires, and patrons, remain safe.
“Adults must ensure small children are accompanied around naked flames,” Mr James said.
“These fires must be contained within a steel fire drum and not be lit on the open ground.
“Wood for these fire must be under 60x30cm, and excessive wood will be confiscated. Excessively large fires will be extinguished.
“Please ensure your fire is not a danger to others persons or their property, and everyone gets to enjoy the festival.”