As we welcome the great outdoors and the rugged beauty of Australia's natural landscapes, camping has become a cherished pastime for many Aussies, especially those in their golden years who have more time to explore and enjoy the serenity of nature. However, with this freedom comes a significant responsibility, particularly when it comes to fire safety. A recent incident serves as a stark reminder of the disastrous consequences that can arise from a single mistake.

Campers are being urgently warned not to ignore fire restrictions after a bushfire, sparked by a campfire, broke out and quickly became out of control on Thursday afternoon, January 2. The fire, which occurred east of Goornong, a rural town in central Victoria, was fortunately contained to one hectare thanks to the swift response of 14 firefighters, a tanker, and the assistance from a firebombing aircraft. This incident underscores the importance of adhering to fire restrictions, which are put in place to prevent such dangerous situations.


The Grampians National Park in Victoria has been battling bushfires the size of Singapore, with authorities issuing fire restrictions in parts of the state as ideal weather conditions threaten to exacerbate the current situation. These fires, which started from a lightning strike on December 17, have been described as a 'devastating fire event' by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, spanning more than 760,000 hectares and resulting in 35 confirmed property losses.


Victoria has seen some state-wide fire bans in recent weeks, and the Victorian Premier took to social media with a direct plea: 'Don't be a dickhead. No fires to be lit.' This blunt message highlights the gravity of the situation and the critical need for compliance.


If fires are permitted in an area, authorities urge campers to practice safe fire starting and ensure it is completely put out before moving on. Here are some safe campfire instructions provided by the Victorian government:

1. Check weather conditions and Fire Danger ratings, which can be found on official websites.
2. Set up the campfire safely by using a purpose-built fireplace or dig a hole at least 30 centimeters deep.
3. Keep campfires small and ensure there is at least a three-meter perimeter cleared of flammable materials around the fire.
4. Nominate a 'watcher' and never leave a campfire unattended.
5. When heading out, put it out. Always ensure a campfire is completely extinguished using water, not soil.

'Before you leave your campfire make sure you put it out using water, not soil. If it's cool to touch, it's safe to leave,' Forest Fire Management Victoria advises.


For our seasoned campers and those new to the experience, it's crucial to remember that the beauty of the Australian bush must be preserved and protected. A moment of negligence can lead to catastrophic consequences, not just for the environment but for communities and wildlife as well. Always stay informed about the current fire restrictions in your camping area and follow the guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor adventure.

We at the Seniors Discount Club urge all our members to take these warnings seriously. The great Australian bush is a national treasure that we all share and have a duty to protect. Let's keep our camping trips safe and enjoyable for everyone by being mindful of fire safety practices.
Do you have any tips or experiences to share about camping and fire safety? Have you witnessed the impact of bushfires on our beloved natural landscapes? Share your stories in the comments below, and let's help each other stay informed and prepared for a safe camping season.