In the serene landscapes of Australia's national parks, where wildlife thrives and nature is preserved, a recent incident has sent a stark warning to all Australians about the consequences of illegal activities. Two individuals have been hit with a hefty $35,000 in fines for their clandestine operation of collecting and selling firewood from a national park, a protected area where fallen timber serves as a crucial habitat for local wildlife.

The duo's illicit enterprise came to a screeching halt during a targeted patrol by Parks Victoria officers. In a hasty retreat, the pair fled the scene, but not without leaving behind a trail of evidence that would soon lead to their downfall. Their abandoned Commodore became the treasure trove for authorities, revealing records and social media accounts that tied the 44-year-old man and 31-year-old woman to the black market firewood business.


This incident is not an isolated one. Parks Victoria has been vocal about the issue, having issued warnings in the past about illegal wood sellers. The agency disclosed that in the previous year alone, nearly 10,000 trees had been illegally chopped down across 462 hectares of public land. The environmental impact is significant, with species like the marbled gecko, brown treecreeper, and Peron’s tree frog losing vital habitat.


Despite their absence in court, the pair were convicted on six charges at the Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on November 22. The man faced a $20,000 fine, while the woman was fined $15,000 for their actions in the Lower Goulburn National Park in May 2023. The magistrate, recognizing the broader implications of their enterprise, ordered the seizure of their chainsaw and trailer, tools of their illicit trade. The 2.3 cubic metres of river red gum wood confiscated in the operation will be donated to the community.


'The illegal cut and take of firewood from national parks and protected public land is theft,' stated Andrew Dean, a Parks Victoria Senior Enforcement Officer. 'Theft damages and destroys wildlife habitat and robs Victorians of the natural places they love to visit. Magistrate Zebrowski's verdict sends a strong and clear message: firewood theft will not be tolerated, and offenders will be held accountable for their actions.'

To avoid falling into the trap of supporting such illegal activities, Parks Victoria advises residents to take several precautionary steps when purchasing firewood:

1. Inquire about the origin of the firewood.
2. Request a tax receipt that includes a business name and ABN (Australian Business Number).
3. Steer clear of buying firewood advertised on social media platforms.
4. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as they often are.


As members of the Seniors Discount Club, it's crucial to remain vigilant and informed about where our products come from, especially when it comes to natural resources like firewood. Not only does this help protect our environment, but it also ensures we are not inadvertently contributing to illegal operations that could have severe legal and financial repercussions.
Have you ever encountered a situation where you were unsure about the legality of a product or service? How did you handle it? Share your experiences and tips with the community in the comments below. Remember, staying informed and cautious is key to protecting both our beloved natural landscapes and our wallets.