Sustained wet weather across the Wimmera has led Forest Fire Management Victoria to close several Firewood Collection Areas for the rest of the collection season.

Forest Fire Management Victoria's District Manager Russell Manning said: "Our staff have been vigilant in their assessment of conditions and have advised that many of areas are either inaccessible due to recent heavy rain or track conditions are such that providing access would only damage tracks."

"DELWP will not open some Firewood Collection Areas this Spring," Mr Manning said.

"These are:
  • Balmoral Golf Course (Southern Grampians Shire)
  • Brynterion Plantation (Yarriambiack Shire)
  • Illawarra - Pickering Track (Northern Grampians Shire)
  • Kadnook - Powers Creek Road (West Wimmera Shire)
  • Ledcourt - Forest Road (Northern Grampians Shire)
  • Wartook - Northern Grampians Road (Horsham Rural City Council)
  • Woohlpooer Block 1 (Southern Grampians Shire)

    "Unless otherwise advised, all other designated Firewood Collection Areas will remain open until 30 November 2016, offering good access if collectors stay on marked tracks.

    "We believe that there are adequate supplies of firewood in these areas, of varying sizes and quality.

    People are asked to collect firewood by hand and reminded that it may be necessary to carry it to their vehicle over some distance.

    It is illegal to sell firewood collected on public land without an appropriate permit or licence or to take more than the allowed amount.

    Any information the community may have about the illegal removal of firewood for sale can be reported to DELWP on 136 186 and quote Operation Axe.

    To find your nearest firewood collection area or for more information and updates, visit www.delwp.vic.gov.au/firewood, your nearest DELWP office or call the Customer Service Centre on 136 186.