RESIDENTS are now able to collect firewood for domestic use from designated collection areas now that the Spring firewood collection period is open.
Locally, firewood can be gathered from Main Mountain Road in Wandong, Phone Track at Mount Disappointment, and along Flowerdale Road. A full list of collection sites and guidelines is available at http://ffm.vic.gov.au.
Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action Director of Forest and Fire Operations, Aaron Kennedy, encouraged people to plan ahead for winter 2026.
“Spring is an ideal time to collect your firewood. Depending on the type of vegetation and level of dryness when cut, most wood takes longer than 12 months to dry. Ideally, people should plan their firewood needs two years in advance.” Mr Kennedy said.
Firewood collection is permitted only from designated areas in state forests during the firewood season.
Mr Kennedy reminded collectors of strict limits: a maximum of two cubic metres per person per day and 16 cubic metres per household per financial year.
“If you are unable to collect firewood yourself, you can nominate someone to collect on your behalf,” he said.
The spring firewood collection season runs until Sunday, November 30.
Mr Kennedy urged the community to act responsibly saying that most people do the right thing.
“Collect wood that is already on the ground, take only what you need, and stick to limits and rules. Check weather and conditions before you go, be aware of your surroundings, and take care when using chainsaws.”
Financial assistance is available for low-income households purchasing firewood. More information and reporting of suspected illegal collection is available by calling 136 186.
