Tatura duo on the chopping block after illegal firewood scheme

They both received additional charges, including causing damage and disruption to wildlife habitat and native vegetation.

The matters were heard in Shepparton Magistrates’ Court in their absence.

In documents submitted to the court, the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action said Parks Victoria officers discovered an abandoned trailer filled with 2.3 cubic metres of freshly cut river red gum wood attached to a silver Holden Commodore on Coomboona Rd on the edge of the Lower Goulburn National Park on May 20, 2023.

The officers had previously seen Hughes and Barter-Gribble moving around the trailer.

The officers later found the abandoned car and trailer filled with wood after following fresh tyre impressions and a trail of damaged undergrowth through the forest, and discovered eight sites where logs had been recently removed from the forest floor.

When searching the abandoned car, officers found identifying documents and records that related to the sale of firewood, and other items such as a fuel can, chainsaw, chainsaw chains, a log splitter and a crowbar.

Accounts linked to Hughes promoting firewood for sale on Facebook were also found.

Despite fleeing the scene, Hughes and Barter-Gribble both admitted to cutting and taking the wood when interviewed by Parks Victoria on June 4 and May 25, respectively.

However, Barter-Gribble said the wood was for use when camping and not for sale.

Their chainsaw and trailer used as part of their illegal activity were seized and ordered to be destroyed, while the 2.3 cubic metres of seized river red gum would be donated to the community.

Hughes was fined $20,000 and Barter-Gribble was fined $15,000.

To report illegal firewood theft or suspicious sellers, contact Parks Victoria on 13 19 63.