The Narromine volunteer joined 19 Rural Fire Service (RFS) volunteers from the western region including Guerie, Mudgee, Orange, Bathurst, Dubbo, Coonamble and Warren who gave up their time as the hazardous emergency conditions continued in the New England region.

The western region strike team were based in Dorrigo, located 128 kilometres east of Armidale. For five days they days were tasked with extinguishing birds-nest fires, undertaking controlled burns and back burns to protect more land.

Senior Deputy Captain Barry said he was responsible for operating and managing the Cat 6 fire truck which was sourced from Wellington to help "mop up" and put out fires in what he has describes as "tough terrain".

"What has happened is fire has broken out in a rain forest that hasn't burnt for over 40 years," he said.

"It's very hard terrain to get on top of it. You can't get personnel in to put it out, and aeroplanes are helping but aren't getting to where they need to be and the lack of water isn't helping the situation either."

It was the local firefighter's first out of area deployment since joining the RFS almost seven years ago, and has described the experience as "rewarding".

"I really enjoyed myself, I met a lot of great people and it was just good to get the response back from locals," Senior Deputy Barry said.

"It's quite heartwarming and touching when you have elderly people and kids shaking your hand and thanking you very much for being there and taking time out of your life to come make theirs that little bit easier, was incredible."

The Narromine RFS are always on the hunt for new volunteers and Senior Deputy Barry urges anyone interested to contact the local brigade.

"Here in Narromine we've got a really good brigade, we're definitely lacking numbers, but I joined just to help out in the community and help out people in need," he said.

"I've learned a lot out of the RFS and taken a lot of skills out of it, I've met a lot of really good people throughout the RFS."

Training starts with basic firefighter courses and volunteers can progress to take up speciality courses such as aviation, first aid, driver training and chainsaw courses. The RFS are encouraging residents aged over 16 years to contact them to discuss a volunteer membership.

Visit the Narromine Headquarters Rural Fire Service Facebook page for more information.