The Great Ocean Road Coast Committee, CFA, Victoria Police, and Surf Coast Shire have joined forces to remind people of the dangers of fires in dunes and remnant vegetation along the Surf Coast.
The Great Ocean Road Coast Committee’s Conservation Supervisor, Georgie Beale said an unattended campfire was discovered on Sunday 9 October in bushland behind Steps Access Track, Jan Juc.
“We need the public to be our eyes and ears and report any illegal behaviour in sensitive coastal habitats,” said Ms Beale.
“Despite the great efforts to revegetate this area over many years, it also has a history of environmental damage caused by illegal camping and parties. We as a community need to stamp it out in the interests of public safety, and to protect our precious coastline.”
CFA Lieutenant Tim Tingiri from the Torquay Fire Brigade said the fire was located in a difficult area on a day with high winds.
“We were able to contain this fire to around 3 metres by 3 metres. If any member of the public sees a fire an early call to 000 is critical.”
Mr Tingiri said now was a good time for people to update their fire plans, prior to summer.
Last Sunday’s incident has been referred to Victoria Police.
Great Ocean Road Coast Committee Blog 