Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
Victorian Hunting Guide
2015
Page | A
Join the deer people!
Australian Deer Association
Sambar
Photo: Doug Read
“Conservation is a State of Harmony
between Men and Land” Aldo Leopold
Hunters rights – ADA is an active campaigner Past achievements – ADA has delivered for deer hunters;
for deer and deer hunters. • Hunting in National Parks
• Fallow deer hunting on public land
Hunting opportunities – ADA is committed to the
• Continued hunting with scent trailing hounds
preservation and extension of access to public land
• Balloted hog deer hunting opportunities
for deer hunting.
Extra benefits – $20M of Public Liability Insurance
Education – Hunters can learn the ropes via ADA’s
for when you go hunting and subscription to Australia’s
renowned hunter education course and receive practical
premier deer magazine.
demonstrations in firearm handling and safety, trophy
care, butchering and bushcraft. Your hunting future – Support the deer people so
they can continue delivering achievements for you.
Fellowship – Socialise with experienced friendly
deer hunters in the welcoming environment of a
hunter’s camp.
Membership enquiries
Phone: (03) 9870 1175
Email: natmem@austdeer.asn.au
Web: www.austdeer.com.au
Open seasons, bag limits and licence fees
GAME SPECIES 2015 OPEN SEASON DATES BAG LIMIT
Native quail
Stubble Quail 4 April 2015 – 30 June 2015 Twenty (20) birds per day
Introduced game birds
Pheasants and partridges,
All year No limit
European Quail, Californian Quail
Duck
Pacific Black Duck Opening Saturday:
Grey Teal Ten (10) game ducks,
including no more than
Mountain Duck two (2) Blue-winged
Wood Duck Shoveler.
21 March 2015 – 8 June 2015
Chestnut Teal Remainder of season:
Blue-winged Shoveler Five (5) game ducks per
day, including no more
Hardhead Duck than one (1) Blue-winged
Pink-eared Duck Shoveler.
Deer
Hog Deer 1 April 2015 – 30 April 2015 One male and one female
Red Deer All Year No limit
Sambar Deer (stalking only) All Year No limit
Sambar Deer (hound hunting) 1 April 2015 – 30 November 2015* No limit
Fallow Deer All year No limit
Chital Deer All year No limit
Rusa Deer All year No limit
* Excluding the Easter period from Friday 3 April to Wednesday 8 April.
GAME LICENCE FEES (valid until 30 JUNE 2015)
Type of Game Licence Short-term Long-term
Available One year or part thereof* Three years or part thereof*
Deer $52.90 or $26.40 concession $158.70 or $79.30 concession
Deer (stalking and hounds) $52.90 or $26.40 concession $158.70 or $79.30 concession
Game birds (including duck) $52.90 or $26.40 concession $158.70 or $79.30 concession
Game birds (not including duck) $52.90 or $26.40 concession $158.70 or $79.30 concession
Game birds (including duck) and
$79.40 or $39.70 concession $238.20 or $119.10 concession
deer (stalking)
Game birds (including duck) and
$79.40 or $39.70 concession $238.20 or $119.10 concession
deer (stalking and hounds)
Game birds (not including duck)
$79.40 or $39.70 concession $238.20 or $119.10 concession
and deer (stalking)
Game birds (not including duck)
$79.40 or $39.70 concession $238.20 or $119.10 concession
and deer (stalking and hounds)
*Licences for juniors (12-17 years old) are free of charge. For information on Provisional, Non-Resident and
Game Bird Farm Licences, see section 2.
Page | 1
Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015 If you would like to receive this information/publication in an accessible format (such as large print or audio), please call the Customer Service Centre on 136 186, TTY 1800 122 969, or email customer.service@delwp.vic.gov.au. Published by the Game Management Authority, February 2015. © The State of Victoria 2015 This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968. Authorised by the Game Management Authority 2 Lonsdale St, Melbourne 3000. ISBN 978-1-74146-435-1 (Print) ISBN 978-1-74146-436-8 (PDF) Disclaimer This publication may be of assistance to you but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. For more information about the Game Management Authority go to www.gma.vic.gov.au or phone the Customer Service Centre on 136 186. Page | 2
Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
Contents
Welcome to the 2015 Victorian Hunting Guide...........................................................4
1. Introduction...........................................................................................................6
2. Licensing...............................................................................................................7
3. Where you can hunt.......................................................................................... 13
4. General hunting laws......................................................................................... 19
5. Caring for the environment................................................................................ 23
6. Use of dogs for game hunting........................................................................... 26
Hounds for hunting Sambar Deer..................................................................... 28
7. Duck................................................................................................................... 31
Victoria’s game ducks........................................................................................ 44
8. Deer.................................................................................................................... 46
Victoria’s game deer.......................................................................................... 58
9. Stubble Quail..................................................................................................... 60
10. Introduced game birds....................................................................................... 62
11. Pest animals...................................................................................................... 63
12. Further information............................................................................................ 65
Rebecca Sullivan’s Roast Venison Recipe....................................................... 67
13. Sunrise/sunset times......................................................................................... 68
Page | 3
Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
Welcome to the 2015 Victorian
Hunting Guide
Minister’s message The Government is keen to advance new
opportunities for hunters to contribute to the
The Victorian Government is continuing
management of invasive pests that damage
to build game hunting in Victoria, and
agriculture production and our natural habitat.
is committed to ensuring that it is safe,
responsible and sustainable. The 2015 This Hunting Guide and the free Game
Victorian Hunting Guide details the current Hunting Victoria app and the GMA website
arrangements for deer, duck, quail, pheasant www.gma.vic.gov.au are valuable resources
and partridge hunting. that provide the best information available for
your safe hunting trip.
Game hunting is growing in popularity, with
around 48,000 Victorian Game Licence
holders. Hunting is a state-wide activity that
contributes to local and regional economies
across Victoria, is worth an estimated $439 The Hon. Jaala Pulford
million and supports 3,400 jobs. The Minister for Agriculture
The recently established Game Management
Authority (GMA) is Victoria’s independent
statutory authority responsible for the
administration, licensing, compliance and
enforcement for game hunting. In its first year,
the GMA has worked with other Government
agencies, hunting organisations and the
broader community to ensure hunting is
conducted safely and responsibly.
In the lead up to the 2015 duck season, the
GMA has made recommendations to the
Government on season arrangements based
on the best science available. Dry conditions
and lower waterfowl numbers have resulted
in a full length season being declared, with
reduced bag limits.
Through the GMA, Government continues
to work proactively to ensure that hunting is
conducted responsibly.
Page | 4
Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
Chairman’s report Planning) to ensure that we have productive
game and wildlife habitats that deliver quality
Welcome to the first edition of the Game
hunting opportunities into the future, so that
Management Authority’s Victorian Hunting
tomorrow’s hunters can also participate in this
Guide.
legitimate and fulfilling past-time/recreation.
The Game Management Authority (GMA)
Clear and accurate information is essential
came into being on 1 July 2014, and has
for hunters to enjoy their recreation safely
the primary responsibility of regulating and
and responsibly. To that end, the Authority
managing game hunting in Victoria.
will pay particular attention to the provision
The creation of an independent entity to of information needed by hunters to meet
oversee game hunting and management is their legal obligations and responsibilities that
an important first, and provides an exciting are so vital to the future of the game hunting
opportunity to make a difference for thousands industry.
of hunters (both local and visiting), as well
The GMA website www.gma.vic.gov.au
as the communities that benefit directly from
is already a useful resource, and we are
hunting and the broader public.
committed to continuous improvement. Our
I am pleased to report that great progress ultimate objective is a single website that will
has already been made in the formation of tell hunters, or direct them to, everything they
the new Authority, and the establishment of need to know about game (or pest animal)
sound operating and governance systems so hunting, firearms licensing and safety issues.
important to our success over the long term.
I encourage all hunters to take advantage of
The new Board is determined that the Victoria’s outstanding (even unique) hunting
Authority will win respect both as a regulator opportunities, and continue to support our
and an expert in game management and regional communities and your recreation.
responsible hunting. We have committed
I wish you a safe and successful 2015, and
to work proactively with the other relevant
remind you that respect, at all levels, is the key
agencies to ensure game hunting is carried
to the future of your recreation.
out in a safe, sustainable and responsible
manner, and to promote respect at all levels:
for the laws of the land, for the animals hunted
(or used in the hunt), for other hunters, and for
other land users.
We intend to work closely with other land use
agencies (such as Parks Victoria and the The Hon. Roger Hallam
Department of Environment, Land, Water and Chairman, Game Management Authority
Page | 5
Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
1. Introduction
The Game Management Authority (GMA) • Making recommendations to relevant
was established on 1 July 2014 under the Ministers in relation to game hunting
Game Management Authority Act 2014 as an and game management, control of
independent statutory authority responsible for pest animals, declaring public land
the regulation of game hunting in Victoria. opened or closed to hunting, open and
It also has an important role in providing closed seasons and bag limits and the
advice to Ministers on game management. management of public and private lands
as it relates to game and their habitat.
The GMA’s objectives are to promote
sustainability and responsibility in game Responsibility for game management
hunting through enforcement, education, and hunting is shared across a number of
training, research and ensuring resource government organisations. The Department
sustainability. The GMA’s functions include: of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport
and Resources is responsible for statewide
• Promoting sustainability and responsibility
game hunting and pest management policy
in game hunting
and the Department of Environment, Land,
• Administering game licensing Water and Planning (DELWP) is responsible
• Promoting, monitoring and investigating for biodiversity, broader wildlife and land
game hunting compliance management policy. Parks Victoria is
• Developing operational plans and responsible for the management of the public
procedures for the sustainable hunting of land parks and reserves estate and DELWP
game, the humane treatment of animals, for the remainder of public land. Victoria
and strategies to minimise negative Police is responsible for the licensing, use,
impacts on non-game wildlife and to possession and trade of firearms.
conserve wildlife habitats The GMA works closely with these agencies,
• Working with public land managers to the hunting community, industry and other
improve the management of public lands interested stakeholders to ensure that game
where hunting is permitted hunting remains safe, sustainable, humane
and equitable.
• Monitoring, conducting research and
analysing the environmental, social and For information on game hunting in Victoria
economic impacts of game hunting and or the GMA, visit the GMA website at
game management www.gma.vic.gov.au
Page | 6
Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
2. Licensing
Game Licences A range of licence types are available,
depending on your requirements.
‘Game’ includes those species of duck, deer,
Traditional Owners acting in accordance
quail, pheasant and partridge declared to be
with a Natural Resource Agreement or other
game in Victoria.
authorisation are exempt from the requirement
Anyone hunting game in Victoria, including to hold a Game Licence. However, Traditional
juniors (12–17 years), must hold a current Owners who wish to hunt duck or Sambar
Game Licence. The Game Licence must be Deer with the use of hounds must obtain a
endorsed for the type(s) of game that you wish pass in the relevant test before hunting those
to hunt and only permits you to hunt that game species.
in Victoria. Licences can be purchased for a
period of one or three years.
Game Licensing requirement
Game Birds (including duck) or
Stubble Quail
Game Birds (not including duck)
Pheasants, Partridges, Game Birds (including duck) or
European Quail and Game Birds (not including duck) or
Californian Quail Game Bird Farm Hunting Licence
Pass the Waterfowl Identification test *
Game Birds (including duck)
Duck Juniors (12-17 years old) may acquire a once-off, 12-month Provisional
Game Licence
Overseas hunters may hunt under a 14-day Non-resident of Australia Game
Licence
Deer (including Sambar,
Red, Fallow, Rusa and Deer (stalking)
Chital)
Obtain Hog Deer tags
Hog Deer
Deer (stalking)
Pass the Hound Hunting test *
Hound hunting Sambar Deer (stalking and hounds)
Deer Juniors (12-17 years old) may acquire a once-off Provisional Game Licence
Overseas hunters require a Non-resident of Australia Game Licence
*Not required for holders of a Provisional or Non-resident of Australia Game Licence.
Page | 7
Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
For information or queries on Game Licensing, Deer with hounds. At the conclusion of the
visit the GMA website: www.gma.vic.gov.au Provisional Game Licence period, a junior
or contact the Customer Service Centre on who wishes to continue hunting must obtain a
136 186 between 8 am and 6 pm, Monday to regular Game Licence and pass the relevant
Friday. tests.
A Provisional Game Licence holder is subject
Licence types to all conditions and laws that apply to regular
There are a range of Game Licence types Game Licence holders.
that can be purchased to cater for your
hunting needs (see table, page 7). Licence
Game Bird Farm Hunting Licence
The Game Bird Farm Hunting Licence is free
fees are included on page 1. In addition to the
of charge and is valid for seven days only. This
existing licences, three other licence types
licence makes it easier for game bird farms to
are available to assist junior and international
cater for corporate events and clients seeking
hunters and game bird farmers.
a game hunting experience in a controlled
Provisional Game Licences for juniors environment under expert instruction.
A Provisional Game Licence is available for The holder of a Game Bird Farm Hunting
juniors (12-17 years old) only. Licence can only hunt non-indigenous game
Unlike a regular Game Licence for juniors, birds (i.e. introduced pheasant, partridge and
the Provisional Game Licence allows juniors quail species) on a game bird farm. Game
to hunt duck or Sambar Deer with hounds ducks and Stubble Quail must not be
without the need to first pass the Waterfowl hunted under this licence.
Identification Test or Sambar Deer Hunting Holders of a regular Game Licence for game
with Hounds Test. However, a junior hunting birds, including duck, can still hunt game
under a Provisional Game Licence must be duck and Stubble Quail in season and non-
under the direct supervision of an adult who indigenous game birds at game bird farms.
holds a valid Game Licence for the species
being hunted and has passed the tests for Non-Australian Residents
those species. Information for international applicants
As with the regular Game Licence for juniors, A ‘Non-resident of Australia Game Licence’
there is no fee for a Provisional Game Licence. is available to facilitate game hunting
It is valid for the remainder of the calendar for international visitors and support the
year in which the licence is issued. commercial hunting and guiding industries.
A junior will be issued a Provisional Game The Non-resident of Australia Game Licence
Licence to hunt duck or Sambar Deer with removes the need for international hunters
hounds only once for each entitlement. It to pass the Waterfowl Identification Test or
allows a junior hunter to experience hunting Sambar Deer Hunting with Hounds Test.
under supervision before deciding whether However, a Non-resident of Australia Game
to continue duck hunting or hunting Sambar Licence holder must hunt under the direct
Page | 8Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
supervision of an adult who holds a valid First-time hunters
Game Licence specific to the species being
First-time hunters can obtain a Game Licence
hunted and has passed the required tests.
application form from the Customer Service
The Non-resident of Australia Game Licence Centre by calling 136 186. You can also find
is only available to people who reside outside the application form on the GMA website at
Australia and is restricted to a maximum www.gma.vic.gov.au
period of 14 days. A Non-resident of Australia
Game Licence fees are listed in the summary
Game Licence attracts the same fee as a full
table on page 1 and are subject to a 10 cent
12-month Game Licence.
rounding. Pensioner concession card holders
Overseas visitors intending to use firearms for are eligible for a discount of 50 per cent on
hunting in Victoria must apply to Victoria Police the price of a licence. Junior (12-17 years old)
for a permit to possess, carry or use a firearm. licences are free of charge.
For information about Firearms Licences Game Licence applications may be lodged
and the possession, use and ownership of by mail as described on the application
firearms, contact the Licensing Services form, or over the counter at most GMA and
Branch, Victoria Police, on 1300 651 645. DELWP offices between 9 am and 5 pm,
Monday to Friday.
Page | 9Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
On receipt of payment, your application will be An updated licence will be sent to you free
processed and a Game Licence sent to you by of charge. Providing your new address
mail. The turnaround time for Game Licence also ensures that you will receive a copy of
applications is about three working weeks, but the Victorian Hunting Guide and any other
delays may occur during peak periods. information that GMA needs to send to you.
No fees for juniors How do I change my licence type?
Game Licences for juniors (12-17 years old) To change your licence type, contact the
are issued free of charge. Although juniors Customer Service Centre on 136 186 to have
must obtain a Game Licence in order to hunt a Game Licence Amendment Form sent to
game, there is no charge for a junior Game you, or download it from GMA’s website.
Licence. Mail the completed form with a cheque or
money order for payment for the licence type
Hunting on a receipt you wish to change to.
When payment for a Game Licence is made If your licence is lost or stolen, you will need to
either in person or electronically (phone, send a signed Statutory Declaration outlining
internet or BPAY), you will be issued with a your circumstances together with a cheque or
payment reference number (receipt). money order for $13.20 (fee valid to 30 June
This proof of payment is regarded as an 2015).
‘interim licence’, and you can hunt with this Send completed documents to:
until you receive your licence in the mail.
Game Management Authority
If you sent a cheque or money order by mail Revenue and Contract Administration
and you have confirmed that this has been 475–485 Mickleham Rd
cashed, you may hunt using your cheque stub Attwood, Victoria 3049
or money order stub as proof of payment.
A replacement licence will be sent to you.
This applies to payment receipts for all new,
renewed or amended licences.
Game Licence renewal
Game Licence amendment and If you have an existing Game Licence, a
payment notice will be mailed to you about six
replacement weeks before your licence is due to expire.
Have you changed your address? To renew your licence, follow the instructions
If you change your address, you must advise on the payment notice. Your new licence
GMA within 14 days of doing so. Contact the will be sent to you after receipt of payment.
Customer Service Centre on 136 186 between Early payment of Game Licence renewals will
8 am and 6 pm on weekdays to notify of any facilitate the early issue of a renewed licence.
change to your postal or residential address.
Page | 10Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
Hunters with a Game Licence that expired
on 31 December 2014 that has not yet been
renewed can pay by:
• Phone (by credit card)
• Internet (by credit card)
• BPAY
• POSTbillpay.
Hound Hunting Test
Anyone wishing to hunt Sambar Deer with the
aid of hounds must have a Game Licence that
authorises the use of hounds.
Prior to applying for a Game Licence to hunt
A guide to the use of hounds for
with hounds, you need to pass the Hound
hunting Sambar Deer in Victoria
Hunting Test, unless you receive a Provisional
or Non-resident of Australia Game Licence.
Hunters will be tested on their understanding
of the legal, safety and ethical requirements
when hound hunting.
Details of Hound HuntingTest centres can be
obtained from the GMA website. The test costs the Waterfowl Identification Test, unless
$29.10 (fees are current until 30 June 2015). you receive a Provisional or Non-resident of
Before sitting the test, applicants are advised Australia Game Licence.
to read A guide to the use of hounds for The test ensures that only those hunters able
hunting Sambar Deer in Victoria. The guide to demonstrate adequate identification skills
contains all the information needed to pass will be permitted to hunt duck. Waterfowl
the test. Identification Tests are conducted at selected
For more information see the GMA website: GMA offices throughout the state.
www.gma.vic.gov.au/Licensing A list of test centres can be obtained from the
GMA website. The test costs $29.10 (fees are
current until 30 June 2015). Bookings to sit the
Waterfowl Identification Test
test can be made through the online booking
You must have a Victorian Game Licence system at www.gma.vic.gov.au
endorsed for ‘game birds including duck’ to
hunt duck in Victoria; this applies to hunters Before sitting the test, hunters may improve
from interstate and overseas as well. their identification skills by referring to A Guide
to Australian Waterfowl and watching the Duck
Prior to applying for a Game Licence to hunt WISE DVD; go to www.gma.vic.gov.au for
game birds including duck, you must pass details.
Page | 11Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
Duck WISE education video A copy of the DVD has been sent out to every
licensed duck hunter and it is available free of
Duck WISE (Waterfowl Identification, Safety,
charge from DELWP offices across Victoria.
Effective and Efficient Hunting) is a new
You can also view the DVD on YouTube and
education video for duck hunters. The video
on the GMA website.
will help all duck hunters accurately identify
game and non-game species and will reduce For more information, go to www.gma.vic.
the risk of the wrong birds being taken in gov.au
the field. In addition, Duck WISE promotes
responsible and lawful hunter behaviour and
provides important information on effective and
efficient hunting practices and firearm safety.
RESPECT RESPECT Duck
RESPECT
W
HUNT RESPONSIBLY HUNT RESPONSIBLY
HUNT RESPONSIBLY
aterfowl
RESPECT
HUNT RESPONSIBLY RESPECT
HUNT RESPONSIBLY
RESPECT
HUNT RESPONSIBLY
I
RESPECT
HUNT RESPONSIBLY dentification
S afety
E ffective
and Efficient
Hunting
Page | 12Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
3. Where you can hunt
Victoria provides some of the best hunting (DELWP) and Parks Victoria, will do their best
opportunities in Australia. These include to help you to identify areas open to hunting,
large tracts of public land, and private land but hunters also need to do some homework.
where you can hunt with permission of the
To help us help you, we recommend that you:
landowner. Some areas open to hunting can
be easily identified due to distinct and easily • Identify the general area that you wish to
recognisable boundaries (e.g. roads); others hunt.
can be difficult to identify and are only defined • Obtain a map of the area and narrow it
by physical features or lines on a map. down to areas likely to have game.
Land managers, such as the Department • Talk to park rangers about the location of
of Environment, Land, Water and Planning park boundaries.
Location Is hunting permitted?
State forest, forest parks
(Cobboboonee and Otway) Game species may be hunted during the open season only.
and other unoccupied Crown Pest animals may be hunted at any time.
land
Generally, game (during the open season) and pest animals (at any
Licensed Crown land
time) may be hunted, subject to the permission of the licensee.
Game duck may be hunted, but only during the open season. Sixteen
State Game Reserves are available for Stubble Quail hunting and six
State Game Reserves
for Hog Deer hunting. Pest animals may not be hunted at any time,
unless specifically authorised by DELWP or Parks Victoria.
Game may only be hunted during the open season and pest animals
Private land may be hunted at any time, but only with the permission of the
landowner/manager.
Game species may not be hunted at any time. Pest animals may be
Sanctuaries
hunted at any time.
National parks, state parks,
Generally, hunting of any type is not permitted at any time, but there
coastal parks, wilderness
are some exceptions. See page 15 for details.
parks, regional parks
Melbourne Water
Hunting of any type is not permitted at any time.
catchment areas
Flora and fauna reserves and
Hunting of any type is not permitted at any time.
nature conservation reserves
Alpine resorts Hunting of any type is not permitted at any time.
Page | 13Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
• If you intend to use a firearm to hunt, information below and call the nearest DELWP
adhere to the Firearms Safety Code and office for details before you enter the field.
remember that even though an area may
be open to hunting, the use of firearms Where hunting is permitted
may be prohibited under the Firearms Act
1996 for safety reasons. State forest, forest parks (Cobboboonee
• For Crown land, find out from the local and Otway) and other unoccupied
DELWP office whether the area is licensed Crown land
or leased. Some lessees and licensees Generally, hunting for pest animals and game
do not allow hunting on leased or licensed species is permitted in all state forests, the
lands. Cobboboonee and Otway forest parks and
unoccupied Crown land (i.e. Crown land that
Victorian deer hunting maps are available
is not leased or licensed). However, some
on the GMA website: www.gma.vic.gov.au.
restrictions may apply. Hunters are advised
Information on Victorian State Game Reserves
to consult the local DELWP office for specific
is also available from the GMA website and
information about any restrictions that apply
the GMA smartphone app.
to the area of a state forest, forest park or
When considering where to hunt, remember, unoccupied Crown land where they wish to
find out for yourself. hunt. Remember, many people use state
If in doubt about the legality of hunting in a forests for recreation and/or their livelihood, so
particular area, do not hunt there until you are be considerate and act safely at all times.
sure. Hunting in a prohibited area could result Pest animals may be hunted at any time
in the loss of your Game or Firearms Licences throughout the year. However, hunting for
and/or the seizure and confiscation of your game species is only allowed during the open
firearm, vehicle or other belongings. season and permitted times for that species.
Above all, act responsibly and ensure that Make sure that you know when the open
your actions will not put the safety of yourself seasons are (see table, page 1).
or others at risk. Avoid hunting close to Deer hunting by stalking is permitted in the
boundaries. Never carry a loaded firearm or Thomson River Forest Reserve and with
use a firearm in a town or populous place the use of hounds or gundogs in parts of the
(e.g. picnic area, camp site). reserve. Hunting pest animals is not permitted.
It is the land classification that determines In the Delatite Arm Reserve at Lake Eildon, an
where you can hunt. The Firearms Act 1996 unloaded shotgun may be carried only during
may override other legislation in site-specific the duck season.
areas, such as populous places.
There are many land classifications in Victoria State Game Reserves
and, depending on the type, hunting may or All State Game Reserves are available to duck
may not be permitted. The table (see page 13) hunting during the open season. However,
provides general information on where you some State Game Reserves may be closed as
may hunt. For more specific details, see the part of seasonal arrangements. If this occurs,
notices will be placed in major newspapers
Page | 14Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
and signs will be posted at the reserve before Stubble Quail may be hunted in the 16 State
the opening weekend or at any time during the Game Reserves listed below.
season. Pest animals or other non-game species, such
Tower Hill State Game Reserve, near as sparrows, starlings or rabbits, may not be
Warrnambool, is closed to hunting every day hunted on State Game Reserves.
between 9 am and 5 pm. A Registration of Interest to Hunt Pest Animals
Hog Deer may be hunted in the six State on Crown land does not entitle you to hunt
Game Reserves listed below. pest species on State Game Reserves.
State Game Reserves
The 16 State Game Reserves where Stubble Quail hunting is permitted
Title of reserve Locality* Title of reserve Locality*
Blond Bay 20 km south of Bairnsdale Jack Smith Lake 30 km east of Yarram
Bow Lake 40 km east of Edenhope Jones Bay 5 km south of Bairnsdale
Clydebank 12 km north-east of Sale Lake Coleman 20 km east of Sale
Morass
Darlot Swamp 10 km north-east of Lake Connewarre 8 km south-east of
Horsham Geelong
Dowd Morass 10 km south-east of Sale Mansfield Swamp 10 km west of Stanhope
Gaynor Swamp 10 km north of Colbinabbin Macleod Morass Near Bairnsdale
Hateleys Lake 10 km west of Natimuk Rowan Swamp 15 km south-west of
Yarrawonga
Heart Morass 5 km east of Sale Wallenjoe Swamp 10 km north of Colbinabbin
The six State Game Reserves where Hog Deer hunting is permitted
Title of reserve Locality* Title of reserve Locality*
Clydebank 12 km north-east of Sale Heart Morass 5 km east of Sale
Morass
Dowd Morass 10 km south-east of Sale Jack Smith Lake 30 km east of Yarram
Ewings Morass 10 km south-east of Orbost Lake Coleman 20 km east of Sale
* For maps of these and other State Game Reserves refer to the Game Hunting Victoria smartphone
app (see page 17).
Page | 15Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
Licensed Crown land Avon Wilderness Park from 15 February
If an area of Crown land is licensed, hunters to 15 December. The use of dogs to hunt
must obtain the permission of the licensee Sambar Deer is not permitted. Pest animals
before using firearms on that area. This and other species must not be hunted.
generally includes areas such as unused • Baw Baw National Park: Sambar Deer
roads and water frontages, which may be may be hunted by stalking only in the area
licensed for grazing or other purposes. east of Thomson Valley Road from 1 May
If you are in doubt about the status of to 25 October each year. The use of dogs
a particular area, or require any further to hunt Sambar Deer is not permitted. Pest
information, contact the DELWP office nearest animals and other species must not be
to where you want to hunt. hunted.
• Cape Conran Coastal Park: On
Private land Sydenham Inlet in the park, game duck
Game species in season and pest animals may be hunted during the open season.
may be hunted on private land provided Gundogs are allowed for the flushing or
hunters have obtained the permission of the retrieval of ducks during the open season.
landowner/manager. Pest animals and other species must not
be hunted.
Sanctuaries
• Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park: In certain
Game species may not be hunted at any time
sections, game duck, Stubble Quail and
in areas declared to be wildlife sanctuaries.
Hog Deer may be hunted in season.
However, pest animals may be hunted.
Gundogs are allowed for the flushing or
Major Victorian sanctuaries are Mount Cole
retrieval of game ducks during the duck
Sanctuary, Gunbower Island Sanctuary and
season. Check with Parks Victoria for
Kow Swamp. The location of other wildlife
details. Pest animals and other species
sanctuaries should be checked with the local
must not be hunted. Hunters must have a
DELWP office.
permit from Parks Victoria to erect a hide in
the Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park.
National parks, state parks, coastal parks,
wilderness parks, regional parks • Lake Albacutya Park: The hunting of pest
Generally, hunting of any type is not permitted animals (rabbits, foxes or cats) is allowed,
in national parks, state parks, coastal parks, as is the hunting of game duck during the
wilderness parks, regional parks, but there are open season. Gundogs are allowed for
some exceptions. Where hunting is allowed, retrieval of game ducks during the duck
firearms must only be those calibres or gauges open season. Hunting is not permitted in
permitted for the species available for hunting part of the park at the Western Beach visitor
in that park. facilities, including near the boat ramp.
• Lake Eildon National Park: In certain
• Alpine National Park and Avon
sections in the south-east of the park,
Wilderness Park: Sambar Deer may
Sambar Deer may be hunted from the first
be hunted by stalking only in parts of the
Saturday after Easter until 30 November.
Alpine National Park and in the whole of the
Page | 16Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
The use of dogs to hunt deer is not • Nooramunga Marine and Coastal Park:
permitted. Pest animals and other species Hunting for Hog Deer and game duck is
must not be hunted. permitted in certain sections in season.
• Mitchell River National Park: Sambar Pest animals and other species must not
Deer hunting by stalking is permitted east be hunted.
of the Mitchell River and south of Hortons
Melbourne Water catchment areas
and Calvi Tracks from 15 February to
A number of catchments and reservoirs in the
15 December. The use of dogs to hunt
outer metropolitan and central highlands area
deer is not permitted. Pest animals and
are controlled by Melbourne Water and are part
other species must not be hunted.
of the metropolitan water supply system. Public
• Tara Range Park: Deer hunting by entry to these areas is prohibited. Hunting of
stalking is permitted in this park from any type is not permitted at any time.
15 February to 15 December. The use of
dogs to hunt deer is not permitted. Pest
animals and other species must not be
hunted.
Download the free Game Hunting Victoria
smartphone app
Available for iPhone and Android
devices from the iTunes store
and Google Play
www.gma.vic.gov.au
Page | 17Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
Flora and fauna reserves and nature Duck hunting and the
conservation reserves
Hunting of any type is not permitted at any
Murray River
time. The southern bank of the Murray River,
including the original location of that bank
Alpine resorts beneath impounded waters, such as Lake
Alpine resorts are closed to hunting at all Mulwala and Lake Hume, is the state border
times. However, you are allowed to transport between Victoria and New South Wales. South
a dog and firearms through a resort, providing of that border, game ducks may be hunted
the dogs are in a vehicle and the firearms are during the open season on any area open to
securely locked away. duck hunting. This includes flood waters that
have flowed over the southern bank of the
Areas closed to deer hunting Murray River into Victoria.
Some areas of the state have been closed If you are hunting ducks on Lake Mulwala or
to all forms of deer hunting and/or hound Lake Hume during the open season, it is your
hunting. These are: responsibility to be aware of your location on
those lakes.
• Warburton and surrounds, and Rubicon
and surrounds (closed to all forms of Duck hunting is not permitted in NSW, unless
deer hunting). as part of the NSW Game Bird Management
Program. For more information, phone the
• Around Jamieson and Marysville (closed
NSW Department of Primary Industries on
to hound hunting only).
(02) 6391 3750 or visit: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au.
• The area immediately around Mt
Timbertop and the Timbertop Campus
of Geelong Grammar, near the township
of Merrijig (closed to all forms of deer
hunting).
• The Buttercup Lane area adjacent to the
township of Merrijig (closed to hound
hunting only).
• Several areas around Halls Gap (closed
to all forms of deer hunting).
Deer may continue to be hunted in season
on private land within these areas with the
permission of the landowner/manager.
See the GMA website, www.gma.vic.gov.au,
or download the Game Hunting Victoria
smartphone app (see page 17) for further
information.
Page | 18Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
4. General hunting laws
Regulation and legislation contact the Bureau of Animal Welfare on
(03) 9217 4200 for further details.
Most hunting laws are contained in the Wildlife
(Game) Regulations 2012 and the Wildlife Act
1975. Hunters should know these laws. Other Public and private Land
laws on land management and animal welfare The laws that regulate hunting apply to both
are contained in other Acts and Regulations. A public and private land.
list of these can be found on the GMA website.
The powers of Authorised Officers apply to
public and private land, which means they are
Code of Practice for the Welfare authorised to enter private land and go on to
of Animals in Hunting private waters to conduct their compliance
activities.
The Code was developed to:
• ensure hunting is humane
No night hunting
• encourage the considerate treatment of
animals that are hunted, and those that The hunting of game at night (half an hour
are used in hunting after sunset to half an hour before sunrise) is
not permitted in Victoria.
• protect the welfare of other animals where
hunting occurs.
Artificial lights (spotlights)
The Code sets out guidelines for hunter
behaviour to ensure animals (game and non- Spotlights must not be used to hunt game in
game) are treated humanely. To enhance the Victoria.
environment and its wildlife, the Code supports It is illegal to use a firearm on or across roads
the participation of hunters in conservation or tracks and to use vehicles or spotlights to
programs. hunt or assist in hunting of game.
For a copy of the Code or further details, visit A spotlight is defined as any source of artificial
the GMA website, www.gma.vic.gov.au, or light, infrared device, night vision or heat-
detecting device.
Hunting tip: General preparation
Before the hunting season starts, sort and prepare your hunting equipment and service,
repair or replace old equipment; this will ensure all equipment performs and doesn’t let
you down at a critical moment. To avoid crucial equipment being forgotten, organise and
pack your equipment well in advance.
Page | 19Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
Under the regulations, a spotlight does not and
include: • Any ammunition is stored separately (but
• A domestic light used for domestic not in a glove box) and is in a part of the
purposes – this could include lights such vehicle not readily accessible by any
as torches, lanterns and work lights when occupant of the vehicle.
used around camp. and
• An emergency light used for emergency • Any spotlight in or on the vehicle is not
purposes – such as hand-held torches in use.
or headlamps used when navigating out
of the bush or 12 volt lights used when Possession of a spotlight and firearm
working on your vehicle. when on foot
• A light fitted to your vehicle that complies Hunters on foot in recognised deer habitat
with the Road Safety (Vehicles) between 30 minutes after sunset until
Regulations 2009 – this covers all 30 minutes before sunrise may carry an
spotlights and work lights that are fitted on artificial light (e.g. torch or headlamp) for on-
your vehicle in a legal manner. foot navigation purposes as long as:
• The firearm and magazine is unloaded
Possession of a spotlight and firearm – this means that all cartridges must
when in a vehicle be removed from the firearm and any
Hunters travelling in vehicles between magazine.
30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before
and
sunrise in recognised deer habitat can be in
possession of a firearm and spotlight as long • Ammunition is stored in a closed case or
as: container – this could include a backpack
or cartridge case.
• The firearm is unloaded and stored in a
securely fastened case or container (e.g. and
gun bag or gun case) that is stowed in the • Any artificial light is not fitted to the firearm,
boot or storage area of a sedan, dual cab scope or other fitting attached to the
or wagon and is not readily accessible by firearm.
any occupant of the vehicle.
or Recognised deer habitat
‘Recognised deer habitat’ is defined as all
• For utes or single cabs, the firearm areas of Crown land in the following Victorian
is unloaded and stored in a securely municipalities:
fastened case or container and stowed in
a part of the vehicle not readily accessible • Alpine Shire
by any occupant of the vehicle. The best • Ararat Rural City
approach here is to fit a lockable steel box • Baw Baw Shire
to the tray and store the firearm in there.
• Benalla Rural City
• Cardinia Shire
Page | 20Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
FIREARM SAFETY
It’s your responsibility
When travelling this season consider the following:
TRANSPORT
• Never carry loaded firearms in your
car or around the campsite
• Avoid displaying firearm related
stickers or signage on your vehicle
• Firearms and ammunition should be
stored separately and out of sight
• Ensure firearms are securely locked
away and unable to be accessed by
any unauthorised person
SAFETY
• Unload your firearm before climbing
fences or other obstacles
• Do not handle a firearm under the
influence of alcohol or drugs
For additional information visit www.police.vic.gov.au/firearmsGame Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
• Colac-Otway Shire Powers of Authorised Officers
• Corangamite Shire Authorised Officers are there to help you
• East Gippsland Shire understand the hunting laws and provide
• Glenelg Shire advice and information on hunting. They
are also there to enforce the hunting laws to
• Horsham Rural City
protect the resource and ensure that everyone
• Mansfield Shire has equitable access to hunting opportunities
• Mitchell Shire and that hunting is conducted in a safe and
• Murrindindi Shire responsible manner.
• Northern Grampians Shire When hunting, you may be stopped by a
GMA Game Officer, a DELWP Wildlife Officer
• Pyrenees Shire
or any other Authorised Officer, a Parks
• South Gippsland Shire Victoria Ranger or a member of Victoria
• Southern Grampians Shire Police. An officer may not always wear a
• Strathbogie Shire uniform, but they will always show their official
identification to you.
• Towong Shire
• Wangaratta Rural City If you are approached by an officer in the
field, you will be directed to unload any firearm
• Wellington Shire
in your possession. You may also be asked
• Whittlesea City to produce your Firearms and/or Game
• Yarra Ranges Shire Licence and to provide your correct name and
For more information on shire boundaries, address. Officers may also wish to inspect
hunters can contact the listed shires. any game you have harvested or have in your
possession.
People exempt from spotlighting laws Authorised Officers and members of Victoria
Landowners/occupiers or their agents who Police may stop and search any vehicle or
are using a spotlight for the purposes of boat to carry out inspections. They may also
controlling pest animals to a distance of seize any game or wildlife or any equipment
250 metres outside the boundary of their that has been used in the commission of an
property in recognised deer habitat are exempt. alleged offence, including firearms, boats and
Any person acting in accordance with vehicles.
an Authority to Control Wildlife or other
authorisation issued under the Wildlife Act Compliance on private land
1975 that allows them to destroy wildlife The powers of Authorised Officers apply to
(which may include some deer species) with public and private land, which means they
the aid of a spotlight is also exempt from are authorised to enter private land and go on
spotlighting laws. to private waters to conduct their compliance
activities.
Page | 22Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
5. Caring for the environment
Victoria has many areas across the state • Firewood is in short supply in many areas.
that are available for game hunting. Victoria’s Use only dead fallen wood. Standing
parks, forests and wetlands are special places, trees, even dead ones, are a home for
but to remain so, they need your help. Tread wildlife and a part of the scenery. Do not
lightly to minimise your impact on the natural cut down or damage standing trees or
environment and maintain quality habitat for vegetation. Wherever possible, bring your
quality hunting. own firewood.
Please help to protect these important areas • If dogs are permitted at your campsite,
by following some basic rules: ensure they are adequately restrained
to protect wildlife and other campers.
• Keep to the tracks
Remember to clean up after your dogs.
• Pick up all spent shotgun shells and
• Protect water quality – wash-up at least
cartridge cases
50 metres from streams and avoid using
• Bury all feathers and carcasses soap (use gritty sand and a scourer
• Take all other rubbish home instead).
• Dispose of deer carcasses thoughtfully. • Leave campsites tidy.
Camping Campfires
Here are some basic rules you should follow General advice about fire restrictions
when camping: Restrictions apply to having campfires in
• Camp in an existing campsite rather than Victoria. These restrictions are important to
create a new one and camp at least 20 reduce the chance of a bushfire that could
metres from any creek, lake or wetland. result in loss of life and property. They are
actively enforced.
• Only drive on formed tracks and roads.
Park immediately adjacent to tracks where On Code Red fire danger rating days
it is safe to do so. State forests and national parks will be closed
• Be careful when camping under trees. on Code Red days, so no campfire can be lit
Trees can lose their limbs at any time, but on Code Red Days.
particularly during high winds.
You should monitor all available media to
• Do not dig trenches around tents. be aware of Code Red days, Total Fire
• Take your rubbish home. If you come Ban days and prohibited periods, and take
across other people’s rubbish, do the bush appropriate action.
a favour and take it out with you.
Page | 23Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
On Total Fire Ban days Duck hunting
Total Fire Bans are declared by fire ban district • Cleaning ducks: After plucking or breasting
and could apply to the whole state. Campfires your ducks (i.e. leaving them with a fully
are not permitted on Total Fire Ban days. Solid feathered wing attached), feathers, offal
and liquid fuel barbecues and ovens are also and carcass remains should be buried
banned on Total Fire Ban days. in a site clear of vegetation and at least
50 metres away from the water. Better
At all other times still, store them in a rubbish bag and take
On state forest and national park, campfires home for disposal.
are permitted in the open air as long as you • Shotgun shells: Spent cartridges must be
observe the following conditions: picked up and disposed of correctly. The
• The fire is lit in a properly constructed cartridges are generally made of plastic
fireplace or in a trench at least 30 cm and brass and if left on the wetland will
deep. remain there as they don’t break down. If
• Where a fireplace is provided, this must not properly disposed of, spent cartridges
be used. will have a negative impact on the wetland
and its wildlife.
• The dimensions of the solid fuel are the
minimum necessary for the purpose.
• The fire does not occupy an area Don’t tolerate illegal hunting
exceeding one square metre.
Call 136 186
• The ground and airspace within a distance
of three metres from the outer perimeter The irresponsible or illegal behaviour
and upper-most point of the fire are clear of some can damage the reputation of
of flammable material. hunters and create unsafe or unsustainable
situations. It is important that hunters act
responsibly and encourage the rest of the
community to do the right thing.
Do not tolerate illegal or irresponsible
behaviour.
Helpful information includes:
• Time and date of activity
• Is activity continuing or past?
• Place
• Number of people involved
• Vehicle registration
• Activity
• Equipment used.
All information will be treated in confidence.
Keep a space of at least three metres around and Information provided will help plan patrols
above the fire clear of flammable material. and enforcement operations when no
immediate field response is possible.
Page | 24Fair game for all Hunting in Victoria’s Game Reserves Victoria’s parks protect our most treasured natural places. They are places that inspire you to explore and discover. Parks Victoria has an active role in managing State Game Reserves and we work hard to protect the park and ensure visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. Parks Victoria rangers will be conducting several compliance activities across the state leading up to and during the peak hunting season. Compliance activities will focus on the game regulations as well as those regulations that protect our parks and reserves such as those on fire, camping and litter. Compliance activities ensure a fair game for all, the safety of hunters and the general public, and protection of our very special State Game Reserves and parks. Help us to ensure this legacy continues. We look forward to seeing you in the field. For further information call Parks Victoria on 13 1963 or visit www.parks.vic.gov.au
Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
6. Use of dogs for game hunting
Many hunters use trained dogs to assist them Dog breeds permitted for
while hunting game. Dogs can be particularly
useful to locate downed game that may
hunting game in Victoria
otherwise be lost. In Victoria, only those breeds of dog
prescribed as ‘gundogs’,’deer hunting dogs’
The popular breeds of dog used to hunt
or ‘hounds’ may be used to hunt game birds
game have been selectively developed over
and/or game deer species, except Hog Deer.
centuries to flush, trail, point or retrieve. They
Other breeds and crossbreeds must not be
are bred to instinctively hunt, are obedient,
used. The breeds permitted for hunting game
obey commands from the hunter, only hunt
in Victoria are shown in the table opposite.
certain types of game and ignore distractions
in the field. A hunter may use no more than two deer
hunting dogs or gundogs when hunting. When
Hunters are responsible for the training,
hunting deer as part of a team, that team
behaviour and conditioning of their hunting
may use no more than two gundogs or deer
dogs.
hunting dogs, or one of each type.
Hunters should always be considerate of
All hunters planning to hunt with hounds
other public land users and ensure their dogs
need to pass the hound hunting test. Detailed
are under control at all times. Ultimately, and
information is available in the booklet:
importantly, hunters are responsible for the
A guide to the use of hounds for hunting
actions of their dogs. Under no circumstances
Sambar Deer in Victoria.
should dogs be set onto game. It is an offence
for any dog to attack or maim another animal. Training your gundog
Any dog that does so must not be used for It takes time and dedication to train a gundog
hunting. to hunt game effectively. Many clubs have
Hunters need to ensure their gundog, deer been established to assist members train their
hunting dog or hound is trained to a level of dogs. These clubs also organise field trials
control so they do not interfere with other where dogs can compete and showcase their
hunters or chase wildlife or livestock. talents. Gundogs may only be used in field
trials conducted during the open season by
Three types of hounds can be used for organisations approved by the GMA.
hunting Sambar Deer. They must be
registered with the GMA (see page 50). Outside the hunting seasons, gundogs can
There are specific regulations regarding be trained with the use of a starter’s pistol and
hound hunting (see section 8). shotguns using blank ammunition.
It is an offence to train a gundog outside the
open seasons while in possession of live
ammunition.
Page | 26Game Management Authority | Victorian Hunting Guide 2015
On State Game Reserves, gundogs can only Care of dogs when hunting
be trained 48 hours before and during a quail It is the hunter’s responsibility to care for their
or duck season. dogs in the field and be aware of any signs
of stress or injury. Dogs used to assist in the
Training your hound hunting of game should be healthy and in
The regulations for hunting Sambar Deer good physical condition.
maintain a maximum pack size of five hounds
They should not be used under conditions
but allow the use of up to three additional
where there is an unacceptable risk of injury
pups (hounds under the age of 12 months) in
or heat stress. To avoid heat exhaustion of
training.
your dogs, hunt when temperatures are less
This allows the pups to be effectively trained extreme (e.g. early morning and evening)
without compromising how a pack functions and be sure to provide your dogs with plenty
and affecting the success of a hunt. of water. If a dog is injured when in the field,
ensure that it receives first aid or professional
attention as soon as possible.
Permitted dog breeds for game hunting in Victoria
Gundogs (game birds and deer) Gundogs (cont.) Deer hunting dogs (deer only*)
Bracco Italiano Hungarian Vizsla Border Terrier
Brittany Spaniel (Epagnuel Hungarian Wirehair Vizla Dachshund
Breton)
Chesapeake Bay Retriever Irish Red and White Setter Finnish Spitz
Clumber Spaniel Irish Setter Fox Terrier (smooth)
Cocker Spaniel Irish Water Spaniel Fox Terrier (wire)
Cocker Spaniel (American) Italian Spinone German Hunting Terrier (Jagd
Terrier)
Curly Coated Retriever Labrador Retriever Jack Russell Terrier
English Setter Lagotto Romagnolo Norwegian Elkhound
English Springer Spaniel Large Munsterlander Hounds (Sambar Deer only)
Field Spaniel Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Beagle
Retriever
Flat Coated Retriever Pointer Bloodhound
German Shorthaired Pointer Sussex Spaniel Harrier
German Wirehaired Pointer Weimeraner (Longhair)
(Deutsch Drahthaar)
Golden Retriever Weimaraner
Gordon Setter Welsh Springer Spaniel
*Excluding Hog Deer
Page | 27You can also read
