mmg.com.au

Firewood collection season starts Friday after the Victorian Government delayed its start by a week to make sure significant fires were contained across Victoria.

Department of Sustainability and Environment’s state-wide land and fire co-ordinator Rob Price said a combination of large going fires, dry conditions and a risk to public safety had contributed to a recent decision to delay the opening of the firewood season until 15 March, except for far East Gippsland.

‘‘Since then, all of the going fires have been contained and, combined with the rain, the conditions in our forests are now suitable for firewood collection to commence at the end of the week,’’ Mr Price said.

‘‘We appreciate the patience of the community while DSE and Parks Victoria have been monitoring the fire risk in an effort to make sure firewood collection is conducted as safely as possible.

‘‘The public will be able to collect firewood from March 8 in designated domestic firewood collection areas across Victoria.’’

DSE and Parks Victoria staff will patrol parks, forests and reserves to ensure people are doing the right thing.

Firewood collection is only permitted during designated times of the year and from designated firewood collection areas.

On-the-spot fines are about $560.

Offences that go to court may be liable for fines up to $7042, one-year imprisonment, or both.

For information and updates, visit www.dse.vic.gov.au/firewood or call the DSE customer service centre on 136186.