Firewood collection now open

Although the weather may be starting to warm up it is a good time to think about stocking up on firewood.
The firewood collection period for community members in declared areas of state forests will remain open until the end of November.
However, Forest Fire Management's deputy chief officer for Gippsland Sam Quigley stressed the need for caution in reminding people to check local weather conditions and their planned route before heading into a forest.
He said access to some areas might be restricted until tracks dry out and are safe and those gathering wood should also be alert to the risk from trees that may fall or drop limbs without warning.
People can collect up to two cubic metres per day with a maximum of 16 cubic metres per financial year.
Mr Quigley said wood collected this spring needs at least eight to 12 months to cure and dry before use.
Authorised officers will be patrolling to ensure compliance with collection limits with offenders liable for heavy fines and a possible prison sentence.
Collection areas can be found by accessing www.ffm.vic.gov.au or an office of the department of energy, environment and climate action (DEECA).