Monday, February 6 will mark the first day of balloted Hog deer hunting on Snake Island. Seven hunting periods have been established between February and May this year, with eight hunters kicking off the first five days of hunting.
SSAA Victoria Chief Executive Officer Jack Wegman said the first day of balloted hunting was significant for all sporting shooters. “We are seeing an increasing acceptance of hunting and its conservation benefits among Parks Victoria and other conservation groups,” he said.
“Today marks just one example of that growing appreciation of responsible hunters. I trust that the successful implementation of this trial will lead to increased access for hunters across Victoria.”
Each of the seven hunts have been scheduled during weekdays to prevent hunting during high-use times on weekends and public holidays. The hunts begin on Mondays at 8am and continue during day-time hours until Fridays at noon.
To prepare for the trial, Australian Deer Association (ADA) conducted a hunter education weekend at Port Welshpool on January 21 and 22 for all hunters who were selected.
“Hunters will be well-briefed on their responsibilities and obligations, with a particular emphasis on safety,” GMA Director Simon Toop said. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the selected hunters to enjoy free-range Hog deer hunting. They will want to make the most of the experience and do the right thing.”
There are estimated to be about 500 Hog deer on Snake Island.
