The Victorian Government has committed to doubling its funding of the Conservation and Pest Management program over the next four years.
Environment Minister Lisa Neville pledged to support the program for another four years “in recognition of the important role the Association plays in helping control pests and feral animals”.
SSAA Victoria first signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Parks Victoria in 2007 to assist with pest management on State-owned land.
The program has now grown to more than 18 operations across the State, involving more than 7621 volunteer hours last year alone.
SSAA Victoria CPM Manager Rhys Coote said the Government’s commitment to continue the program was testament to all the CPM-accredited volunteers involved in the program.
“Over the past nine years, our volunteers have proved that pest animals can be controlled in a professional and humane way, through the use of skilled and accredited volunteers,” he said.
“Since introducing this program, we have seen significant improvements to one of Victoria’s most well-known tourist attractions, Werribee Park, where the rabbit population is now under control.
“We have also been involved in a Victorian first, when Wilsons Promontory National Park was closed for the first time since WWII last year for conservation. During that closure our volunteers worked with Parks Victoria and Australian Deer Association to control Hog Deer and protect significant flora and cultural sites.
“The latest commitment from the State Government will ensure more endangered flora and fauna will be protected from feral animals, through professional and regular control programs.”
Rhys praised the Parks Victoria staff for their hard work in ensuring the program was run efficiently and achieved its intended outcomes over the past several years.
“The Parks Victoria staff are there day in and day out to strategically plan operations and provide safety briefings and support to our volunteers,” he said. “Their contribution is immeasurable.”
The CPM program has also provided a platform for ADA and SSAA Victoria to work constructively for the better of the shooting sports.
“The relationship we have with ADA is exceptional,” Rhys said. “Volunteers from both Associations provide support and advice to each other and work well together under the guidance of Parks Victoria.
“I’m confident those relationships with Parks and ADA will continue to strengthen even more over the next four years.”
More information on the CPM program, hunting tips and hunter ethics can be found on the website.