Protecting our wildlife and bushland against illegal wood hooking

Published on 05 June 2024

The City of Hobart is urging residents to help protect our precious wildlife and forests by reporting illegal wood hooking and suspicious activities in our reserves.

This illegal activity not only threatens our natural habitats but also damages important infrastructure.

Sustainability in Infrastructure Portfolio Committee Chair Cr Bill Harvey said all trees, whether dead or alive, are vital in providing crucial wildlife habitats.

"Every tree plays a vital role in our ecosystem, supporting a diverse range of species,” Cr Harvey said.

“Dead trees are as important as living ones, offering shelter and food sources for many forms of wildlife.”

Cr Harvey called for a strong community call to arms.

"We need your help to dob in wood hookers,” Cr Harvey said.

“Our forests and wildlife are under threat, and we can't protect them alone. Your vigilance can make a significant difference."

Renowned wildlife ecologist Dr Sally Bryant said these illegal actions cause immense damage to the environment.

“Wildlife and habitats are under enormous threat, and we can't protect them alone," Dr Bryant said.

“The Hobart Domain is a woodland gem and we all benefit from its protection and expert management."

Recent incidents have highlighted the need for public vigilance.

Reserve infrastructure, including gates, fire trails, and walking tracks, have suffered damage from unauthorised vehicle access and interference with rocks and bollards.

These acts not only compromise the safety and enjoyment of our reserves but also violate several by-laws related to the protection of vegetation, soil, and access without permission.

Anyone caught engaging in illegal wood collection may be proceeded against for offences including stealing, unlawful possession, trespass and any relevant traffic offences.

Cr Harvey stressed the importance of reporting suspicious activities.

"Our council employees and contractors always operate with appropriate safety gear, including personal protective equipment, hi-vis clothing, and clearly marked vehicles,” Cr Harvey said.

“If you see someone operating a chainsaw without these safety measures, it should be an instant red flag."

A notable incident last year involved a walker notifying the council of trees cut into firewood-sized pieces in Ridgeway Reserve.

This tip-off led to an investigation and the eventual apprehension of the offender.

"This is a perfect example of how public awareness and reporting can help us catch perpetrators in the act," Cr Harvey said.

For those needing firewood, Cr Harvey advises sourcing sustainably harvested firewood through legal means.

Anyone with information about illegal firewood gathering is urged to contact police on 131 444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestopperstas.com.au.

Do not approach suspicious individuals; instead, report them to the authorities.

“Together, we can ensure our natural habitats and wildlife are protected for future generations," said Cr Harvey.

For more information on sustainably sourced firewood, please visit the Sustainable Timbers Tasmania website here.

Picture: Dr Sally Bryant with a native tree that was illegally and unsafely cut down on the Queen's Domain recently.