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wood fires at Arapiles 10-Jun-2011 At 12:28:14 AM jezza

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No, you haven't stated the rule, or the consequence. I think you've taken your disgust with poo piling (and general naughtiness by campers), and applied it to this situation. Here's what Louise said

'This week the Arapiles Advisory Committee recommended that Parks Victoria reduce wood fuel campfires at Arapiles to 3 months annually: June to August. Previously wood fuel campfires were allowed for 6 months from May to October. The decision was made after 6 months of deliberation, and after hearing a submission from Parks Victoria on biodiversity values on public land. Parks Victoria officers pointed out to the committee that every scientific study cites a direct correlation between fallen wood on the ground with increased biodiversity. In a small park like Arapiles (1000 acres), firewood gathering has an enormous impact on biodiversity - birds, reptiles, invertebrates and flora. '

There's nothing in the above about 'failing to follow current fire restrictions'. In fact, the 'further restrictions on fire' is the consequence of a purported impact on biodiversity.

The 'rule' (let's not screw up Arapiles) is fair. However, I don't know that we've broken that rule from wood gathering. I'd like to see some evidence that we've gathered so much wood that we've affected biodiversity. Even if we have done so, the 'consequence' (let's ban fires some more) isn't fair. Other possibilities might be
- let's patrol occasionally and tell people that they shouldn't have gathered that wood
- let's fine people who gather wood
- let's make doubly sure that people _know_ they aren't supposed to gather wood
- let's sell people wood
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