A BAIRNSDALE man has been convicted and fined $1500 after pleading guilty to two charges relating to illegal off-road driving in the Nunniong State Forest.
The 25-year-old was convicted in the Bairnsdale Magistrates Court on Wednesday, September 28 after saying he made a “silly mistake” while admitting he forced open and damaged a seasonal closure gate and drove on to a closed road in a sensitive alpine area in October 2021.
Seasonal gates are in place to protect sensitive environments, and to preserve public access tracks over the cooler, wetter months of the year.
The man said what he did “was stupid” as Magistrate Wallington fined him $1500 and ordered him to pay $244.86 in additional costs.
Regulatory program manager Gippsland Region, Bradley Woods, said the conviction “should serve as a reminder to anyone thinking about illegal behaviours in the parks and forests that they will be caught and face the consequences”.
“Alpine environments harbour a fascinating range of native plants and wildlife only found in these rare high altitude regions,” Mr Wood said.
“Damage to the Nunniong State Forest impacts on not only this unique environment but the future usability and enjoyment of the area by fellow members of the public.”
If you notice any illegal behaviour such as this, phone the DELWP Customer Contact Centre on 136 186. You can remain anonymous.
You can find more information about rules on public land online at www.vic.gov.au/rules-in-state-forests.
The Conservation Regulator oversees the regulation of wildlife, forests and public land in the state of Victoria.
