Charges over Otway trails of destruction

Image source: Conservation Regulator

Seven men have been charged following the illegal construction of a trail bike trail network through rainforest, waterways and critical wildlife habitat in the Great Otway Ranges.

The charges are the latest outcome from an ongoing operation by the Conservation Regulator targeting unauthorised trail-building on protected public land in the Otways.

The charges relate to alleged illegal trail bike riding and environmental damage within the Great Otway National Park and Otway Forest Park between July and November 2025.

The parks are environmentally significant areas that provide critical habitat for threatened species including the endangered gang-gang cockatoo and vulnerable long-nosed potoroo.

Investigators allege unauthorised single trails and riding structures were carved into the landscape to facilitate illegal trail bike riding across remote areas of both parks.

The investigation identified evidence that rock formations were drilled and reshaped, native vegetation was cleared and mature trees were felled during the construction. Chainsaws, machetes and other hand tools were allegedly used.

In November 2025, search warrants were executed at properties in Forrest and Mount Duneed, leading to the seizure of a trail bike, tools and equipment.

The men charged are a 37-year-old from Pennyroyal, a 44-year-old from Mount Duneed, a 49-year-old from Lara, a 48-year-old from Moolap, a 51-year-old from Jan Juc, a 52-year-old from Newcomb and a 60-year-old from Barwon Downs.

The men have been charged with offences under the National Parks Act 1975, Wildlife Act 1975, Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988, Forests Act 1958 and Land Conservation (Vehicle Control) Regulations 2024.

The offences include damaging native vegetation, damaging wildlife habitat and unlawful vehicle use on public land.

In Victoria, trail bike riding is only permitted on formed roads and tracks that are open to the public, and it is illegal to remove native trees and vegetation or damage wildlife habitat on public land without authorisation.

The charges follow the Conservation Regulator charging five other men in relation to a separate illegal trail-building operation in the region earlier this year.

Suspected illegal activity on public land can be reported to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestoppersvic.com.au. Reports can be anonymous.