NRAR warns landholders to watch for people who could be posing as government officers

The Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) has warned landholders in the Bilpin area to watch out for people impersonating government officers to gain illegal access to properties.

NRAR was alerted to the potential issue by staff of a local irrigation company who reported two men claiming they were "from the government" had entered a Bilpin property last week asking to check dams.

The company reported that the men were not wearing uniforms or driving a government vehicle and there is community concern they might be scoping properties for items to steal.

NRAR Director of Education and Engagement Keeley Reynolds confirmed that NRAR’s Outreach staff had been in Bilpin and Kurrajong doing routine property inspections two weeks ago and urged landholders to check the credentials of any people asking to enter their properties as a precaution.

"It's very rare for our staff not to be in uniform and they always carry identification which you can ask to see," Ms Reynolds said.

"If people have further concerns, they can check the officer's identification by calling NRAR's call centre on 1800 633 362," she said.

"We urge landholders to report any suspicious people or activities to the police."

Ms Reynolds said NRAR staff visited the Blue Mountains as part of an ongoing Outreach program, which focused on helping people to comply with water licence approvals and conditions.

She said NRAR staff may return to the area later to do more inspections.

"Typically, we try to let people know we are coming by phoning ahead, but sometimes, when contact details are not current, we can’t do that," Ms Reynolds said.

"People can update their details through the WaterNSW Manage Your Details page and that's well worth doing," she said.

"The bottom line is, if any unfamiliar person seeks entry to your property and can't produce identification, report it to the police.”