UPDATE: Several wetlands around Kerang will be closed from Saturday, March 25.
Koorangie State Game Reserve, west of Kerang, Koorangie State Game Reserve, comprising Lake Bael Bael, and First, Second and Third Marsh (collectively known as the Marshes) will all be closed.
Game Management Authority (GMA) Chief Executive Officer Greg Hyams said the decision to close the area came after a survey this week conducted by the GMA identified significant numbers of Freckled and Blue-billed Ducks on the reserve.
This closure may be reviewed if circumstances change later in the season.
ORIGINAL STORY: Several wetlands in the Kerang area are will be closed to duck hunting after poor behaviour by hunters on the opening weekend.
SSAA Victoria has been informed of the closures, due to be formally announced shortly, and a media release giving full details is expected soon.
While this is disappointing to SSAA and the vast majority of duck hunters who do the right thing, it is a predictable reaction from the State Government, which has a duty to protect rare and endangered species.
The information coming to light indicates widespread misbehaviour in that particular location. With significant numbers of Freckled duck still on those waters, the authorities are taking a cautious approach.
SSAA Victoria will monitor this developing issue and update members as more information comes to hand. We will continue working in the interests of our members.
