Authorities are ramping up surveillance in a bid to stop illegal rave parties being held in the bush, after police were called to shut down a huge event near Ballan.
Last month’s rave in the Wombat State Forest attracted up to 1000 people, and led to the seizure of thousands of dollars worth of professional audio equipment including speakers, mixers and a trailer-mounted generator.
It was the second event to be closed down at the same location this year.
Planning for a third event, in the Upper Loddon State Forest south of Castlemaine on New Year’s Eve, was cancelled after the Conservation Regulator became aware of event preparations
The Conservation Regulator’s Director of Regulatory Operations, Brian Hamer, said unauthorised events in state forests often operate without risk assessments, fire safety plans or proper access for emergency services.
“Running an unauthorised music event in state forest without proper planning and safety measures puts not only attendees at risk, but also emergency services who may be called on to respond,” Mr Hamer said.
“We know these events are held in areas with limited access and no fire prevention planning. Combined with the ongoing fire danger and bushfires in the landscape – it’s a recipe for disaster.
“Seizing items associated with illegal music events and prosecuting those involved in the coordination, is designed to disrupt the progress of these events and reduce the likelihood of similar events in the future.”
Strengthened surveillance measures will include online monitoring for illegal event planning, more patrols in popular unauthorised rave locations, and the stepping up of aerial surveillance.
Events planned on Crown land require permits from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, if more than 30 people will be in attendance.
