LAST year, Independent Member for Shepparton District Suzanna Sheed voiced concerns over large-scale illegal logging in Shepparton Regional Park and Lower Goulburn National Park, following several reports that illegal loggers were using chainsaws at all hours to steal trees that would be sold as firewood in Shepparton and Melbourne.
In the past two years, Parks Victoria recorded 244 incidents of illegal timber harvesting in Shepparton Regional Park and Lower Goulburn National Park.
“From a large number of incidents, only five people have been prosecuted for illegal timber harvesting activities within the Lower Goulburn National Park but none at Shepparton Regional Park,” said Ms Sheed.
“While this is quite a low number, a further seven prosecution briefs are currently being prepared against 11 people and 10 infringement notices have been issued.”
One person has been fined $7,500 for illegally removing firewood and for damage to wildlife habitat, and another received a 12-month jail sentence.
“While action is being taken against these criminals who are decimating our local environment and wildlife habitat, causing angst among nearby residents, and avoiding paying taxes, I feel that many are avoiding detection and not facing our courts.”
“However, I am heartened that the targeted operation on illegal logging will continue to be led by the Conservation Regulator and Parks Victoria until the end of 2022,” Ms Sheed said.
If you see something, say something. Call 136 186 to report suspected illegal activity.
