In the North East region, the Walwa – River Road fire started on 5 January and burnt from the Murray River down to the Wabba Wilderness and was classified as contained on 6 February 2026.
As at 12 February 2026 approximately 121,500 hectares (Ha) has been burnt. The burnt area is 78% public land, that includes 13,500 Ha of pine plantations. 22 % of the fire impacted private land with at least 14 residences burnt, numerous agricultural buildings and stock losses.
As well as sites of cultural heritage, many areas of high value biodiversity habitat, significant community assets were impacted including Shelley Camp, Avondale Gardens, the Upper Murray Landcare Office and the Upper Murray Rail Trail and heritage trestle bridges.