PARKS Victoria recently implemented an increased number of patrols and crackdown on illegal commercial firewood theft in the Shepparton and Lower Goulburn areas.
This move has been taken to protect the environment and its inhabitants from significant habitat destruction caused by the illegal removal of river red gum timber.
The illegal removal of river red gum timber has resulted in significant habitat destruction, affecting nesting birds and mammals that rely on these trees’ hollows.
Offenders face on-the-spot fines of $740 with a maximum penalty of $9246 and/or a year in prison if prosecuted in court. Equipment such as chainsaws, trailers and vehicles can also be seized.
Parks Victoria has significantly increased patrols around the clock, focusing on nights and weekends when offenders are most active.
The community is also being encouraged to assist with the crackdown by reporting suspected illegal firewood taking and any suspicious firewood sellers, by calling 136 186.
Community members are likewise reminded to consider where their purchased firewood has come from, to prevent ongoing illegal activity and detrimental environmental impacts.
District manager for Parks Victoria, Jess Reid said, “Shepparton has become a hotspot in the state for illegal firewood harvesting, and Parks Victoria takes this extremely seriously. Our operation this year is the biggest yet and is driven by intelligence gathered over several seasons, in partnership with Victoria Police and the Conservation Regulator.”
For more information on buying firewood, visit, www.vic.gov.au/buying-firewood
