Calls intensify for firewood collection in Barmah Forest

“During the Easter break I took a drive through the Barmah Forest, and I was shocked at the piles of dead trees and branches covering the ground,” Mrs Tyrrell said.

“This dead fall is inhibiting the growth of saplings and regeneration of the forest.

“Allowing local residents into Barmah Forest to collect the fallen firewood would not only help regenerate forest growth but would also clear the potential fire risk this deadfall creates.

Mrs Tyrrell highlighted the lack of any designated firewood collection points in either the Greater Shepparton or Moira local government areas, with the nearest being a three-and-a-half-hour round trip to near Warrenbayne.

“It is absurd when you have potential firewood littered across the Barmah Forest that people can access safely,” she said.

“That is why Labor need to open the Barmah Forest so local residents can collect the wood they need for the winter.”