A camper has been dealt a $200 fine after being caught lighting a bonfire at Lane Poole Reserve on Thursday afternoon.
About 12pm on December 27, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions officers found the blaze in camp grounds on the reserve.
Dwellingup Police took to social media to express their disbelief and frustration over the incident.
“Unbelievable people would do this in summer and when fires are prohibited there,” the local station posted on Twitter.
“A bushfire in that area could be deadly and result in criminal charges.”
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Earlier in December, Department of Fire and Emergency Services deputy commissioner Lloyd Bailey warned West Australians that bushfires were commonplace state-wide and could cause huge destruction, meaning people need to be prepared.
“Summer brings hot, dry and windy conditions in WA and with it a high risk of bushfires so we are reminding the community that a pre-determined bushfire plan is essential to help save your life in a bushfire,” Mr Bailey said.
“Now is the time to begin preparing yourself and your property before bushfire strikes.
“It’s as simple as having a five minute fire chat with your family and neighbours today to determine what your trigger point is to leave, where you will go and which direction you will go.
“I encourage all Western Australians to visit firechat.wa.gov.au and make your plan to survive a bushfire today.”
Unbelievable people would do this in summer and when fires are prohibited there.
Lane Poole Reserve is located about 50 kilometres, south east of Mandruah and boasts more than 50,000 hectares dense vegetation, predominantly made up of jarrah and marri trees.
Wandoo woodlands occupy the land to the eastern side of the park.
Campfires are currently illegal at all nine camping sites within the Lane Poole Reserve.
Anyone who doesn’t comply with the bushfire regulations, could face a maximum penalty of $10,000 plus costs.
General information, legal requirements and dates are available from the DFES website.
To view conditions and regulations at WA campgrounds and parks, visit the department’s website or click here.
