Tree clearing charges laid

A Wimmera man has been charged with 113 offences after allegedly clearing native vegetation from an area of the Cherrypool State Forest, south of Horsham, adjacent to his property in February 2023.

The 51-year-old is accused of illegally cutting and removing more than 100 native trees, dumping more than 1000 litres of waste, and using a vehicle to damage public land without authorisation.

It is also alleged the man disturbed two protected native plants – the narrowleaved wattle and sphagnum moss – species that are part of protected genera under the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988.

Investigators said the plants were important for maintaining biodiversity by protecting soil quality and providing habitat for small birds.

The Conservation Regulator, part of the Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action, investigated after receiving information about suspected illegal clearing.

When authorised officers inspected the site, they observed about 100 tree stumps in the forest, and several stacks of logs and woody debris on the adjoining farmland.

Large piles of dumped fencing material were also located in the forest, about 100 metres away from the property boundary.

“Any illegal removal of native vegetation is devastating for biodiversity, and the loss of these native species will impact the health of the Cherrypool State Forest and the wildlife that depends on it,” Barwon South West acting regional manager Rob Bendon said.

It is illegal to cut or remove native vegetation on public land or damage protected flora without authorisation in Victoria. Offenders face maximum penalties of up to $9615 and 12 months’ jail per charge.

The first mention of the case was heard at Horsham Magistrates’ Court on Monday, with a further court date to be determined.

Anyone with information about illegal land clearing or other environmental crime is urged to report it by calling 136 186. Callers can remain anonymous.