Many have been closed to the public since last November due to increased fire risk. And several of our local recreation groups - such as the Nambucca Valley Cycle Club - have been locked out of their bases.

Word of the Nambucca State Forest reopening was music to their ears: "Best news we've had so far this year (apart from the rain falling, that is)".

The Tamban, Way Way, Buckra Bendinni, Irishman, Gladstone, and Newry State Forests are now all open.

Visitor sites have been checked by Forestry staff in preparation for the reopening.

"It will be great to have our visitors back to spend time in nature, and also support local small businesses on their way," Forestry Corporation's Senior Manager of Forest Stewardship, Kathy Lyons said.

"There are still some smaller burnt areas in the reopening forests, and we ask visitors to keep out of any burnt areas and not to stop their vehicles in these areas.

"While we have worked to make these areas safer there may still be unforeseen tree hazards."

But there are a number of forests that will remain closed, including Ingalba, Collombatti, Mistake and Thumb Creek. Forestry Corp staff are assessing damage to road infrastructure and identifying dangerous roadside trees in these areas.

The solid fuel fire ban has also been lifted for the North Coast State forests.

A full list of State forests and their status is available at www.forestrycorporation.com.au/visit.

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