Despite being a week into spring it seems no-one remembered to tell the weather, which has remained unseasonably cold, increasing the demand for firewood.
And community members are being urged to responsibly source firewood this spring collection season to protect the state’s threatened native wildlife numbers from falling further.
Endangered bird species, such as the south-eastern red-tailed black cockatoos, found in Victoria’s west and regent parrots of Northern Victoria rely on large tree hollows for nesting, and people illegally cutting or removing trees for firewood is impacting their survival.
Many different marsupials are also affected as the dry, dead hollow-bearing trees they depend on are targeted by illegal firewood collectors.
By sticking to designated firewood collection areas people can play an important part in protecting species including the small brush-tailed phascogale, the greater glider, and the tiny, critically endangered leadbeater’s possum, found only in Victoria.
Conservation Regulator authorised officers, Forest Fire Management Victoria crews and Parks Victoria rangers are patrolling state forests, parks and reserves and will target anyone attempting to take firewood illegally.
Chief Conservation Regulator Kate Gavens said forest regions were home to a diverse range of native species that relied on all of us responsibly sourcing our firewood.
“This spring, we know Victorians will be gathering their firewood, but it's crucial that people follow the rules and don’t damage the forest homes of native wildlife to heat their own,” Ms Gavens said.
Officers can issue infringement notices of up to $740 to those caught breaking the rules, and serious offences can result in maximum penalties of $9246 or up to a year in prison.
If it is suspected of being linked to an illegal commercial operation, officers may also seize chainsaws, trailers and vehicles.
Parks Victoria manager enforcement and regulatory services Mark Breguet said national and state parks were Victoria’s most iconic natural areas, and the illegal removal of firewood caused impacts that lasted for generations.
“It is critical for the protection of these areas that people only gather firewood for domestic purposes and from designated Firewood Collection Areas,” Mr Breguet said.
From May to November 2021, 290 infringement notices for illegally removing firewood were issued across Victoria with fines totalling $84,278.
The Conservation Regulator encourages the community to assist by reporting any suspected illegal firewood collection on 136 186.
The spring firewood season, which runs until the end of November, is one of two firewood collection seasons across the state, helping Victorians access free firewood in designated areas.
For details of where, when and what firewood can be collected, visit: www.ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood/firewood-collection-in-your-region
Financial support is available for people who rely on firewood for heating or cooking. To find out if you are eligible, visit: https://www.ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood/energy-concession-and-support