General News
26 March, 2024
Be a good egg this long weekend
Thousands of Victorians are eggs-pected to flock to the outdoors this Easter long weekend and throughout the school holidays, and people are being urged to act sensibly to avoid putting nature and other forest visitors at risk.
Thousands of Victorians are eggs-pected to flock to the outdoors this Easter long weekend and throughout the school holidays, and people are being urged to act sensibly to avoid putting nature and other forest visitors at risk.
Although colder conditions are predicted this weekend, forest visitors, camper, and anyone planning outdoor activities, such as hiking, prospecting, or four-wheeled driving, are still required to follow the relevant laws, and should check weather forecasts and fire warnings before leaving home.
“The fire risk may not be as obvious this weekend, but our forests and parks are still full of bushfire fuel,” Chief Conservation Regulator Kate Gavens said.
“Dry leaves, twigs and branches can quickly turn a negligent campfire into a destructive bushfire.”
The Conservation Regulator said poor camper behaviour on the Labour Day long weekend saw more than 60 illegal campfires lit during dangerous conditions, putting the entire area and its visitors at risk.
This advice also applies to anyone stocking up on firewood over the four-day holiday.
Designated collection areas in state forests are open until 30 June, but rules apply and firewood collectors should follow safety advice to avoid breaking the law or inadvertently sparking a fire.
“Our Forest and Wildlife Officers are looking forward to seeing people out enjoying forests this long weekend,” Ms Gavens said.
“Please make sure you know the rules to reduce your impact on the environment while having fun.”
Approximately 200 unattended campfires across forests, parks, and reserves have already been reported this year, and more than 65 infringement notices issued for campfire, off-road, and littering offences.
Authorised Officers will be on patrol over the weekend, enforcing campfire safety rules, and targeting illegal off-road activity and littering to prevent environmental harm, with offenders facing fines ranging between $192 and $46,154.
The community is also encouraged to report any illegal behaviour on public land to 136 186.
For more information about rules in state forests, visit: www.vic.gov.au/rules-in-state-forests.
Remember these tips while hatching Easter plans:
Campfire? Check conditions, build it safely and fully egg-stinguish with water before leaving.
Driving? Use formed, open roads for egg-sploring and have the right licence and registration.
Prospecting? Have a permit and stay in the right areas to egg-stract gems lawfully.
Rubbish? Take it home: we eggs-pect clean campsites and picnic areas.