A large plume of smoke enveloped parts of Sydney’s southern suburbs on Wednesday evening, spotted over Maroubra and Matraville. 

The haze, which rolled in around 6pm, was the result of a scheduled backburn operation conducted by the NSW Rural Fire Service (NSWRFS) within Malabar National Park. 

Heavy smoke was seen on Wednesday evening in the south end of the trendy suburb from Maroubra beach. 

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service confirmed the burn was controlled and part of routine hazard reduction efforts ahead of the upcoming bushfire season, the proximity of the fire to residential areas sparked concern among locals. 

Residents nearby have been urged to remain inside. 

There is no ongoing threat to the community. 

In September 2024, a bushfire broke out at Malabar Headland, which took multiple crews to fight. 

Flames advanced toward the South East Equestrian Club at the Anzac Rifle Range, prompting the deployment of six fire trucks to both the club and surrounding areas.