The closest (more than 60km away) are either restricted to four-wheel drive access (in the Strathbogies), or only for local residents (Whroo).
Most of the collection areas are in forested areas in the Great Dividing Range.
Meanwhile, Barmah residents are still waiting for access to fallen timber which has been pushed into piles in Barmah National Park.
Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action and Parks Victoria were planning to set fire to the timber, but after a public outcry, they have agreed to work out a way that people can access some of the timber.
State Member for Northern Victoria Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell said it was disappointing the minister’s plan to provide access for local residents to the large piles of firewood in Barmah National Park was not ready to go by the start of the spring collection period.
“The minister (Steve Dimopoulos) has told me this wood will be made available during the spring. It is these types of issues that highlight the slow workings of government, and I too am frustrated by the situation,” Mrs Tyrell said.
“Bottom line is this wood will be made available and I cannot wait to see Barmah locals get access to it.
“When they do it will be testament to people in the community such as Dean Adams standing together to achieve a commonsense outcome.”
The collection areas are intended for people who rely on firewood for heating.
They were not open during June or July, but opened from September 1.
The collection areas are managed by DEECA, which tries to balance access to firewood with safety, forest values, biodiversity and cultural heritage.
“People can collect up to two cubic metres per person per day with a maximum of 16 cubic metres per household per financial year as long as they collect from designated firewood collection areas during a firewood season,” Forest Fire Management Victoria deputy chief fire officer Aaron Kennedy said.
“Demand for firewood is always high, so we prioritise availability for local communities and those who depend on firewood as their primary source for heating and cooking,” Mr Kennedy said.
The Victorian Government provides support and concessions for people on low incomes who buy firewood or need assistance with their energy costs.
This includes tailored support via the Energy Assistance Program, a $250 rebate for eligible households from the Energy Bill Relief Fund, payments of between $55 and $619 per year for eligible households that rely on non-mains energy including firewood for heating and cooking, and up to $650 via the Non-Mains Utility Relief Grant for Victorians on low incomes who rely on firewood as their only source of fixed heating.
More information about financial assistance is available for people on low incomes who buy firewood: www.ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood/energy-concession-and-support
Maps for this spring season’s designated collection areas can be seen at: http://www.ffm.vic.gov.au/firewood
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