Vic high country, laws for fires when camping

[westvic]

Looking at our first trip into the Vic High Country around Australia day. Just a couple of vehicles with dads and sons (6 to 11).

Anyone able to let me know what the rules/laws regarding campfires are? I do understand the total-fire-ban bit but if not one of those days what is the go regarding cooking fires and firewood?


cheers,
Steve

[Bird]

read some of this thread
http://www.myswag.org/index.php?topic=26970.msg418321#msg418321


then call Parks Vic, or even look at their website, they have all the info there for you.

[BigJules]

My understanding is that if there's not a fire ban you can have a fire.

However, there can be restrictions on the collection of firewood. Of course, you'd be damn unlucky to get caught collecting wood.

[westvic]

wow that was quick.
thanks.

I understand the "for cooking or warmth" bit but does that differ depending on what part of the high coutry you are in (eg, state forest, nat park, other sort of area)?

also, if there are constructed fire pits does that usually mean only fires in those pits?

all good on the firewood bit....might be doing a bit of "track clearing" on the way in.

sorry for the ignorance, just looking to gain form the experience of the forum rather than spend google time 

[Mace]

http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/fire-and-other-emergencies/teachers-and-students/publications/brochures-and-fire-notes/campfires-and-barbeques

Fires are ok when adhering to the above, except on TFB days.

[westvic]

perfect....thanks Mace, apreciate it 

[Owie]

Have a look and print the info from ;
www.cfa.vic.gov.au look for the 'can I can't I' section.  This will give you the info for during the declared fire danger period.

Bear in mind that if a fire escapes, regardless if you were complying with the above requirements, and you lit it or were in charge of it, you are liable. 

Worth looking at the bit about chainsaws and include generators (non vehicular heat engines), not many people camping fully comply.

[Black Diamond]

Good feedback and info so far, just be sensible about it and don't forget the trip report and pics

BD

[Mace]

One tip:

This is probably too big:

(Wish I hadda been there!!)

[Bird]

One tip:

This is probably too big:

(Wish I hadda been there!!)

In all honesty I don't see anything wrong with that if the people would have prepared/cleared around the fire.

My issue is when people stick massive logs on the fire, that they know will roll out at some point, which could be when everyone has farkt off to bed. Even if they are around,  whose going to pick up a large burning log and put it back on the fire...

Anyway, use common sense.

[gronk]

Nothing wrong with a big fire.....especially if it's winter......been raining recently and the ground is still damp........and you take all reasonable precautions  !!!!!!!

[Black Diamond]

In all honesty I don't see anything wrong with that if the people would have prepared/cleared around the fire.

My issue is when people stick massive logs on the fire, that they know will roll out at some point, which could be when everyone has farkt off to bed. Even if they are around,  whose going to pick up a large burning log and put it back on the fire...

Anyway, use common sense.

Well said Bruce and it happens. It happened to a camp next to us at Rubicon once, thank Fark some people walking past grabbed the shovel and rolled it back in the fire or else it could have been nasty .

[westvic]

Looking at our first trip into the Vic High Country around Australia day. Just a couple of vehicles with dads and sons (6 to 11).

Well, that plan is out the window. Now going to a "nice safe caravan park" with wives in tow due to bush fires.

Political decision to keep the peace but will bank the brownie points for a later trip.

I do hope that people who are heading into the high country this weekend dont do anything stupid with fire and give the "lock everyone out of the bush" mob an excuse to jump up and down again.

[Mace]

The Harrietville fire looks impressive!

http://www.theage.com.au/environment/weather/parks-closed-as-hot-winds-drive-fire-danger-20130123-2d5w2.html

[Bird]

Well, that plan is out the window. Now going to a "nice safe caravan park" with wives in tow due to bush fires.

Political decision to keep the peace but will bank the brownie points for a later trip.

I do hope that people who are heading into the high country this weekend dont do anything stupid with fire and give the "lock everyone out of the bush" mob an excuse to jump up and down again.

I would also rethink that. I think you'll find heading in another direction is the best bet.