Next steps for Mirboo North state forest

THE state government says it is taking the next steps to engage Victorians in determining new conservation, recreation and tourism opportunities in Immediate Protection Areas.

The areas are made up of more than 146,000 hectares of state forest located across the state, including in Mirboo North.

The areas were protected from timber harvesting in 2019 due to their precious biodiversity, the government said.

The membership of the Eminent Panel for Community Engagement, established to lead conversations with Victorian communities on the future care and management of the land, was recently announced.

A representative from the relevant Traditional Owner group and two other experts have been appointed to join chairperson Karen Cain on the panel. The panel will work with the Victorian Environmental Assessment Council (VEAC), which is currently undertaking scientific assessments in these areas.

Formally recognised Traditional Owner groups relevant to each region will be appointed to the panel during the engagement process for each Immediate Protection Area on their Country. This new governance model was developed in partnership with the Traditional Owners and supports self-determination.

Mellissa Wood, chairperson of VEAC, and Nicola Pero, chief executive officer at Food and Fibre Gippsland, have been selected to join the panel.

VEAC is already assessing the environmental, recreation and other values in Immediate Protection Areas in Mirboo North and Strathbogie Ranges. Work in the Central Highlands and East Gippsland will start in mid-2022.

The panel will present a report and recommendations to the government on Mirboo North and Strathbogie Ranges in mid-2022. Community engagement on Central Highlands and East Gippsland will begin later in 2022.