General News
7 September, 2023
Firewood collection season now open for spring period
The spring firewood collection period has begun, officially opened on September 1. Firewood collection is free and only allowed in designated firewood collection areas during the season. Regional Manager Forest and Fire Planning Amy Groch urged...
The spring firewood collection period has begun, officially opened on September 1.
Firewood collection is free and only allowed in designated firewood collection areas during the season.
Regional Manager Forest and Fire Planning Amy Groch urged collectors to play it safe and check local weather conditions as well as their planned route before heading into the forest.
“Coming out of winter, access to some firewood collection areas might be restricted until tracks dry out and conditions are safe,” she said.
“Please be aware of the environment around you at all times and safety of yourself and others when in state forests as trees may fall or drop limbs without warning.”
Residents can collect up to two cubic metres per person, per day with a maximum of 16 cubic metres per household, per financial year.
“Firewood collected during the spring and autumn seasons needs at least eight to 12 months to cure and be dry before use,” Ms Groch said.
“We prioritise firewood availability for local communities and those who depend on firewood as their primary source of heating and cooking.”
To ensure local communities have greater access to available firewood, designated firewood collection in state forests in central Victoria will be restricted to residents of specific local councils.
For a list of council areas and local collection areas visit www.ffm.vic. gov.au/firewood/firewood-collection-in-your-region
Authorised officers will be patrolling parks, forests and reserves to catch those who aren’t following the collection rules.
Officers can issue fines of $769 to those caught breaking the rules. Community members can report any suspected illegal firewood collection on 136 186.
The spring collection season ends on Thursday, November 30.
Financial assistance is available for people on low incomes who buy firewood at www.ffm.vic.gov.au/ firewood/energy-concession-and-support