I hope that clearing the debris away so that it is not a constant reminder will help Rainbow Flat and Koorainghat commence the healing process, Deputy Premier and Minister for Disaster Recovery, John Barilaro says.
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Mr Barilaro is confident residents impacted by the recent bushfire crisis will begin to rebuild their lives as work begins to remove debris from damaged or destroyed properties.
Contractor, Laing O'Rourke has started the clean-up in Rainbow Flat, with Koorainghat to follow from March 12.
Mr Barilaro said the NSW Government would cover the cost of the clean-up to allow insured people to devote more funds to the rebuild and ensure uninsured people won't be out of pocket.
"I know the faster we can clean-up, the sooner communities can start rebuilding and get on with their lives," Mr Barilaro said.
There will be heavy machinery working between 7am and 5pm weekdays and 8am to 4pm on weekends.
This will cause traffic delays so crews can move between properties.
"Typically, it takes around two days for crews to clear debris from one property, dependent on weather and conditions, and longer for properties where there are hazardous materials such as asbestos," Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead said.
I know the faster we can clean-up, the sooner communities can start rebuilding and get on with their lives.
- John Barilaro
"The clean-up will remove debris that is stopping people from rebuilding on their property, such as concrete slabs, damaged driveways, dangerous trees or outbuildings near to primary residences and hazardous materials."
It is estimated the clean-up will save affected landowners about $50,000.
In a message to North Coast residents directly impacted by the fires, NSW Police assistant commissioner and State recovery co-ordinator Mick Willing said the NSW and Federal governments were jointly covering clean-up costs.
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"We appreciate your patience as we work to clear thousands of properties across the State," Mr Willing said.
The clean-up is due to be completed by June 30.
Impacted residents need to register with Service NSW to organise a free property clean-up.
They can do so by calling 13 77 88, visiting the Service NSW website or attending a local recovery centre.
With almost 2500 homes destroyed and approximately 10,000 properties impacted by bushfires State-wide, the cost of the operation will be near $1 billion.
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