MALLEE residents and visitors to the region have been urged to be responsible on public land this holiday season.
The Conservation Regulator, Forest Fire Management Victoria and Parks Victoria said that while trail bike-riding, four-wheel driving and camping were all fun ways to get out and enjoy this summer, there are important rules to keep people safe.
Authorised officers from all three agencies will be patrolling forests, parks, and reserves targeting illegal off-road activity, littering and unsafe campfires.
Christmas Day is forecast to be hot and dry across most of the Mallee region, so campers have been reminded to follow all campfire safety rules and instructions from authorised crews to avoid risking the environment and community.
Flood events have impacted many parts of Victoria recently, and with more rain possibly on the way, the condition of dirt roads have been affected.
Many tracks in state forest and parks will remain closed until further notice to allow repair work to be completed and prevent further serious road damage.
It is an offence to use them while closed.
With many forests and parks impacted by the recent floods, it is recommended visitors have an alternate option in case their preferred location is closed.
Trail bike-riders and four-wheel drivers are reminded they must be licensed, vehicles registered and can only use formed roads and tracks, to protect the environment and other forest users.
Anyone caught illegally riding or driving vehicles off-road can face on-the-spot fines of $185 or up to $500 if the matter is taken to court. Damaging, disturbing or destroying wildlife habitat carries a maximum fine of more than $9000.
Visitors are also responsible for building and keeping safe campfires, including where and what they use and never leaving it unattended, even for a short period of time.
Campfires should be put out with water, not soil, and should be cool to the touch before leaving, while all rubbish must be taken home.
Conservation Regulator regulatory operations acting program manager for Loddon Mallee Glenn Smith said those wanting to enjoy the great outdoors this summer need only to follow some basic rules.
“If you get the opportunity to get outdoors these holidays and enjoy our state forests and parks, make sure you behave yourselves," he said.
"The rules are in place to protect yourselves, others, and the environment.”
Anyone who witnesses illegal vehicle use or rubbish dumping on public land is can report it on 136 186.
