Don’t let good timber go to waste: Cleeland calls for firewood from bushfire firebreaks

The Nationals Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland MP, is calling on the Allan Labor Government to unlock timber from Longwood bushfire firebreaks and roadside clearing to ease firewood shortages ahead of winter.

With extensive firebreak construction and roadside clearing carried out across Longwood, Goomalibee and surrounding communities, Ms Cleeland said significant volumes of usable timber were now sitting unused in the bush while local families struggle to access firewood.

“People are doing the right thing. They’re checking the maps, driving out, spending money on fuel, only to arrive and find nothing there,” Ms Cleeland said.

“At the same time, we have piles of usable timber left where it falls from firebreak works right across our region.”

Ms Cleeland said the current system was out of step with the reality facing regional households.

“For many families, firewood isn’t optional. It’s how they heat their homes,” she said.

“To be sending people to empty collection sites while usable timber is left behind just doesn’t make sense.”

Ms Cleeland has written to the Minister for Environment calling for immediate action to make this timber accessible through properly stocked local collection points or distribution through local suppliers.

She is also seeking answers on how many designated firewood collection areas exist across the electorate and why supply has declined in recent years.

“There are two clear issues,” Ms Cleeland said.

“The timber that exists isn’t where people need it, and without proper oversight, there are real concerns that what is available isn’t always going to local families.”

Ms Cleeland said the solution was straightforward and ready to go.

“This timber has already been cut. With some coordination, it can be moved to central collection points closer to townships or opened up in properly stocked areas,” she said.

“That would save people time, fuel and frustration, and make sure this resource actually benefits the communities it came from.”

“With winter approaching, this is a practical fix sitting right in front of the government,” she said.

“I’m calling on the Minister to act now so families aren’t left out in the cold.”