Victoria’s deer hunters have received a major boost with today’s announcement by Environment and Outdoor Recreation Minister Steve Dimopoulos that the National Parks Act will be amended to allow seasonal deer stalking in the Snowy and Errinundra National Parks.
The change is being welcomed as a historic breakthrough by SSAA Victoria, the state’s leading shooting and hunting organisation.
“This is an announcement that is nearly forty years in the making,” said SSAA Victoria Hunting Development Manager David Laird. “For hunting, we focus on three things – something to hunt, somewhere to hunt, and something to hunt with. Today’s announcement provides Victoria’s deer hunters with a whole lot more of somewhere and something.”
Deer hunting continues to rise in popularity, with over 45,000 licensed deer hunters in Victoria, marking a significant increase over the past decade. Access to public land has been a major factor in that growth.
SSAA Victoria has long championed expanded access for deer hunters and made detailed proposals regarding the Snowy and Errinundra National Parks. “Minister Dimopoulos has listened, and he’s delivered real gains for hunters, regional communities, and public land users,” Mr Laird said.
The association also acknowledged others in the hunting community who have supported the push over many years.
“There have been many voices in this space over time, and we thank all those who have contributed. This is a win that everyone can claim; what really matters is that it’s a win for hunters.”