Two illegal hunters will pay hefty fines after last week being found guilty of possessing a dead Eastern Grey kangaroo without authorisation. The Mornington Peninsular locals, who faced Mansfield Magistrates Court on February 10, were also found guilty of having an unsecured firearm and spotlighting equipment in recognised deer habitat near Myrtleford.
The pair was intercepted by Victoria Police and Game Management Authority (GMA) officers last year, driving along Walshs Road at Lake Eildon, shining a spotlight into the bush. The officers searched the vehicle and found a butchered Eastern Grey kangaroo on the tray of the vehicle. They went on to find a large spotlight, a rifle and ammunition.
The men received 12-month good behaviour bonds, the kangaroo meat was forfeited to be destroyed and they were ordered to pay $500 to the court fund.
SSAA Victoria Chief Executive Officer Jack Wegman said illegal hunting was a slap in the face to the majority of hunters who did the right thing.
“There are 48,000 licensed game hunters in Victoria and the vast majority of them go above and beyond to ensure the future of hunting,” he said. “It’s up to every hunter to respect the animal, the environment, the law and the general public every time they step outside with their firearm. I encourage any SSAA Victoria member who sees a hunter doing the wrong thing to speak up, educate them or report them.”
Possession of unsecured spotlights and firearms in recognised deer habitat 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise is an offence under the Wildlife (Game) Regulations 2012.
GMA Director Simon Toop said GMA officers and Victoria Police would continue to conduct operations targeting illegal spotlighting from public roads and on public land. “Illegal hunting can put people and wildlife at risk, plus it damages the reputation of law-abiding hunters,” Mr Toop said.
SSAA Victoria is investigating whether the men are members.
To report illegal hunting call GMA on 136 186 or contact the police.