The countdown to the 2016 duck season is on, with less than six weeks until season opening. As is becoming increasingly common, with the announcement of duck season has come a flurry of opposition.
The Greens, RSPCA, Animals Australia and the like have been spouting outrageous falsehoods about careless hunters who seriously wound one in four birds every duck season; who have no care for the environment and who are out there to kill for fun.
While we know their hurtful claims are unfounded, they do highlight the importance of every waterfowl hunter being an ethical hunter and taking seriously their responsibility to reduce wounding rates.
Becoming the best hunter you can be is an important goal for all waterfowl hunters who want to see the tradition carried through for years to come.
The Shotgunning Education Program – developed by the Game Management Authority, SSAA Victoria and Field and Game Australia – has many benefits, including assisting hunters in bagging more birds.
But most importantly, the one-day, hands-on workshop run by accredited trainers will reduce waterfowl hunters’ wounding rates.
The SEP was designed to assist Australian hunters in the use of non-toxic shot, equipment selection and the development of key shooting and hunting skills, while trainers shared proven hunting strategies and techniques with attendees.
Running throughout the year at SSAA Victoria and Field and Game locations, the SEP caters to all levels of waterfowl hunters – from novice to experienced.
SEP workshops are available in 2016 for heavily reduced prices. Adult SSAA Victoria or FGA members can attend the workshop for just $150, while junior members can attend for $100 each. Non-member prices are $250 for adults and $150 for juniors.
Among the dates for 2016, courses will be held at Kilmore FGA on February 20, SSAA Eagle Park Range on April 2, Bendigo FGA on July 16, SSAA Eagle Park Range on July 30, Ballarat FGA on September 10, SSAA Eagle Park Range on October 1, Mornington FGA on October 15 and Sale FGA on November 12.
To book yourself, a friend or loved one in to a course in 2016, click here or go to the SSAA Victoria website.