Shocking outback warning! tourists told to leave THIS ancient tree alone

The Diamantina Shire is home to one of Australia’s rarest trees—and locals are begging visitors not to touch it.

Campers have been spotted with chainsaws, tempted by the tough, ancient wood.

The council has issued a firm reminder about what is and isn’t allowed on public land.

It's almost impossible to chop down the Waddi Tree, but that hasn't stopped some travellers from trying.

The Diamantina Shire Council in central Queensland, which offers free camping all year, urged tourists not to cut down trees for firewood during their stays.

'It's just that we have free camping on our common and quite often those campers are travelling with chainsaws and stuff,' the local mayor shared.

'We're just trying to protect our wildlife and provide a bit of education,' he said.

'Reminder to all visiting the Diamantina – cutting timber on public land is not permitted,' the council added, noting that sustainable firewood is sold by local businesses or visitors can bring their own.

The council highlighted the Waddi Tree (Acacia puece) as a protected species found only along the Birdsville–Bedourie Road, with a unique presence in just three locations near Birdsville, Boulia, and the Northern Territory.

The wood is incredibly hard—said to be as tough as steel—and can even break saws.

'It's almost like, "good luck to ya",' the mayor said.

'But we don't really want them to try.' The trees also hold special significance within the Aboriginal community and grow very slowly, taking around three years to reach one metre.

Aussie tour guide Sid Hewison previously highlighted the species, explaining that the Waddi Tree 'comes from the days of the dinosaurs' and has 'one of the toughest woods on the planet'.

Illegal firewood harvesting has become a serious issue in southern states, with Victoria issuing hefty fines this winter.

Taskforce Ironbark, a state-wide initiative with Parks Victoria and Victoria Police, has targeted offenders cutting trees to sell for firewood.

A ute carrying wood allegedly taken unlawfully was seized in Otway Forest Park, while two more people were caught hauling illegally felled firewood in Ballarat.

Fines ranged from $814 to $9,879.

Queensland authorities also warned in June of on-the-spot fines around $1,378 for anyone caught cutting trees from national parks.

The Diamantina Shire, some 1,600 kilometres inland from Brisbane, has a different reality.

Despite the cold nights prompting campers to seek warmth, police enforcement is minimal.

'A little too often you drive around and see where someone has taken a big branch off a tree with a chainsaw,' Mayor Murray laughed.

'We only have the one police officer,' he added. 'I don't think anyone has ever been charged for it.'

The council urged visitors to respect the desert giants and ensure the Waddi Tree remains standing for generations.

Have you ever come across a protected tree while camping and wondered how to enjoy nature responsibly?