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.