Parks Victoria and the Conservation Regulator are stepping up patrols at Inverleigh Flora Reserve, targeting illegal firewood collection after river red gum trees were recently cut down and the timber taken.
During June and July , there were multiple reports of illegal trail-bike riding, off-road vehicle use, and illegal felling of trees in the reserve.
Multiple trees were cut down, including a 350-to-400-year-old river red gum. It follows significant habitat destruction last year when more than 300 trees were illegally felled and removed from the reserve.
A total of 18 infringements and one official warning have been issued by the Conservation Regulator.
“The destruction of this important habitat is bad enough, but the full impacts of illegal firewood theft are not limited to the destruction of the trees,” Parks Victoria western basalt district manager Jodi Heath said.
“The illegal tracks created by vehicles, the damage to roads, broken gates, spreading of weeds and dumped rubbish by offenders has a cumulative effect.
“Information from the community is a key part of our intelligence and evidence gathering and we encourage community members to report any suspicious behaviour to Victoria Police or Parks Victoria on 1319 63. But please remember your safety is most important – don’t put yourself at risk to gather information.”
Inverleigh Flora Reserve is a haven for rare indigenous plants and animals and carries cultural significance to the Wadawurrung people. Manna Gum and River Red Gum trees provide important habitat for nesting birds, mammals and reptiles.
The community is encouraged to report any suspicious behaviour to 13 19 63.
