The Conservation Regulator, Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) and Parks Victoria are urging Melburnians to practise responsible recreation as they trade the city for the bush and enjoy the many National Parks, State Forests and reserves surrounding Melbourne this summer.
With recreation and camping areas impacted by recent storms and floods, many tracks in state forest and parks will remain closed until further notice to prevent further serious road damage and allow repair work to be completed.
Campers are encouraged to have an alternative plan in place if their preferred location is closed or at full capacity.
Authorised Officers will be patrolling forests, parks, and reserves targeting illegal off-road activity, littering and unsafe campfires.
Be sure to check local closures before you leave home on the Parks Victoria website or http://mapshare.vic.gov.au/mapsharevic/
Trail bike-riders and four-wheel drivers are reminded they must be licensed, have vehicles registered and, to protect the environment and other forest users, can only use formed roads and tracks.
Anyone caught illegally riding or driving vehicles off-road in state forests faces on-the-spot fines of $185, or up to $500 if the matter is taken to court.
Damaging, disturbing or destroying wildlife habitat carries a maximum fine of more than $9,000.
“Trail bike-riding, four-wheel driving and camping are all fun ways to get out and enjoy this summer but there are important rules to keep you and others safe,” FMVic Port Phillip Deputy Chief Fire Officer Tamara Beckett said.
“If you are taking the opportunity to get away these holidays and enjoy our state forests and parks, please do the right thing and help protect yourselves, others and the environment.”
Visitors are also responsible for building and keeping safe campfires and never leaving it unattended, even for a short period of time. Campfires should be put out with water, not soil, and should be cool to the touch before leaving. All rubbish must be taken home, not dumped or burned.
Anyone who witnesses illegal vehicle use or rubbish dumping on public land is encouraged to report it on 136 186.
For more information about rules in state forests, including campfires and vehicle use, visit http://www.vic.gov.au/rules-in-state-forests
