By Geoff Adams
A Dandenong North man who lit a fire on a Total Fire Ban Day last Australia Day long weekend was recently fined $1,000 in Seymour Magistrate’s Court.
The magistrate imposed the fine without conviction after the man pleaded guilty to lighting the fire at the Murrindindi Scenic Reserve. The $1,000 fine will be donated to the CFA.
Lighting fires during a Total Fire Ban is illegal and puts lives, properties, and the environment at serious risk. Victoria’s fire restrictions exist to prevent bushfires and to protect communities and breaching them can lead to significant penalties.
During holiday periods like the Australia Day long weekend, there are generally large numbers of visitors to forests, reserves and regional areas, making fire safety more critical than ever.
Chief Conservation Regulator Kate Gavens said one careless act can be devastating.
“Bushfires can have devastating consequences, and campers are responsible for making sure they are aware of the fire risks and restrictions, especially a Total Fire Ban. No excuses,” said Ms Gavens. “An escaped fire, particularly on a day of Total Fire Ban, has the potential to have significant consequences for the environment and can put people’s lives at risk.”
The Conservation Regulator continues to work with the CFA and Forest Fire Management Victoria to ensure fire safety rules are followed and that people are held accountable if they don’t obey the law.
Before you go camping, always check fire restrictions, including whether a Total Fire Ban is in place. Download the VicEmergency app or go to https://www.emv.vic.gov.au/
