East Gippslanders planning camping trips within the region over the coming weeks should check to ensure camping grounds they intend to visit are open, according to Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull, who said a number of camping areas in the far-east are currently closed due to bushfire.

 

Mr Bull said the Wingan Inlet, Point Hicks, Thurra, Mueller, Clinton Rocks and Gale Hill campgrounds were closed at present, with the Cann River-Mueller Road Fire, now 9763 hectares in size, burning 16 kilometres east-south-east of Cann River (as at 11.53am, Monday, December 12).

 

“It is unfortunate that these areas have been closed by the authorities, however the safety of those who wish to camp in these locations is paramount,” Mr Bull said.

 

“Along with the closures of these campgrounds, access has also been restricted to West Wingan Road, East Wingan Road, Thurra Road, Point Hicks Road from the Fishermans Track intersection and Mueller Road,” he said.

 

“I understand there is a back burn underway which has increased the size of the fire and that firefighters are currently patrolling the entire fire edge, blacking out hotspots identified by aircraft and thermal imaging equipment.

 

“There is currently no threat to communities, however locals should continue to stay informed and monitor conditions.”

 

Further details on road closures is available at www.traffic.vicroads.vic.gov.au/, while information on campground closures can be found at www.parkweb.vic.gov.au/safety/fire-affected-areas

 

“I encourage those looking to go camping to check these pages and remain vigilant about the threat of bushfire,” Mr Bull said.

 

 

Monday, December 18, 2017