WHAT began as a blaze lit by delinquents ended up the ideal opportunity to burn off lantana in an area between Stockland Nowra and Nowra Fresh fish and meat market.
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Shoalhaven Fire and Rescue NSW and Nowra Fire and Rescue crews were called to the site on Tuesday evening, where children deliberately lit a fire.
Shoalhaven Fire and Rescue station commander Mick Adams said it was common in school holiday periods.
"It's actually the second one today," he said.
As wind conditions and moisture levels were ideal, the crews decided to conduct a burn-off of the area.
"Otherwise we'll be here 10 times a week," Mr Adams said.
"Every time this happens it smokes out Stockland and the highway, so we're letting it burn. It will reduce the lantana and minimise future risk.
"As there is little wind and the way it has been lit has actually allowed us to burn against the wind. We are taking advantage of the situation. It saves the paperwork."
As well as shrubbery, the ditch was home to an assortment of shopping trolleys, homemade bongs and cubby houses.
"If we'd left, [the children] just come and light it up again."
