Forest Fire Management Victoria (FFMVic) Authorised Officers patrolled public land areas across
the Gippsland region over the Australia Day holiday weekend and were pleased to report that most
people were doing the right thing, managing their campfires responsibly and taking their rubbish
home with them.
“FFMVic Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Chris Stephenson said: “Our officers spent time with the
public chatting about their camping experience and handing out information about responsible
behaviour when camping, walking, riding or driving in our forests and parks.”
“Unfortunately there are always some people who do the wrong thing, and we were concerned to
find a large number of unattended campfires, and campfires that had been left without being fully
extinguished,” Mr Stephenson said.
“An unattended campfire at Jack Smith Lake, north of Woodside Beach caused a fire that burnt
half a hectare of grass and scrub before it was contained by FFMVic and CFA crews.”
“More unattended campfires were found in all fire districts across the region that had to be
extinguished by our officers before they became bushfires.”
“We’re trying every avenue to get the message out that campfires must have an adult present at all
times and must always be put out completely using water, until they are cool to touch and safe to
leave.”
If you see something, say something and report irresponsible or illegal behaviour at our campsites
to DELWP on 136 186 or to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
