VICTORIANS have been given the green light to collect free firewood for personal use from designated state forest firewood collection areas in the Hume region.
The autumn firewood season began on March 1 and ends on June 30.
Forest Fire Management Victoria Director Forest and Fire Operations Hume region Aaron Kennedy urged collectors to be aware of the fire risk created by chainsaws.
“We understand collectors will use chainsaws but we urge them to do responsibly. One spark from your chainsaw can start a fire, putting yourself and others at risk,” he said.
“It is also essential that you bring additional items such as water or a means to extinguish a fire quickly.”
Mr Kennedy said this included not using the chainsaw on a Total Fire Ban Day and making sure the chainsaw has an effective exhaust and spark arrester.
He encouraged collectors to wear protective gear and to only use equipment they’re trained in, including chainsaws.
“Be aware of the environment around you for the safety of yourself and others,” he said.
”Trees can fall or drop limbs without warning.”
Mr Kennedy said firewood collection areas in fire-affected areas would be opened progressively as crews worked to clear tree hazards.
He urged Victorians to check road closures before travelling to collection areas, and drive only on formed roads.
Rules and penalties
”Within designated collection areas, collectors can collect and cut wood that is on the ground due to natural fall or forest and fire management works. Heavy penalties apply to anyone who cuts down a tree, living or dead.”
Mr Kennedy said wood would be of varying sizes and may not be the same quality as the firewood sold by a commercial cutter.
He said people could only collect a limit of two cubic metres per person per day and a maximum of 16 cubic metres per household per financial year.
“Most people do the right thing, collect wood that is already on the ground, take only what they need, and stick to limits and rules,” he said.
Authorised officers patrol state forests and can issue fines of more than $814 to those caught breaking the firewood collection rules. If prosecuted in court more serious offending can result in maximum penalties of $10,175 and/or 12 months in prison.
Officers can also seize chainsaws, trailers, vehicles, and equipment that’s used in the commission of offending.
Information and updates, including maps of collection areas, are available on www.ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood
Community members can find out more about collecting firewood by calling 136 186. Suspected illegal firewood collection can be reported to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.