Game Management Authority (GMA) Game Officers, Victoria Police and DEWLP Forest and Wildlife Officers teamed up on the weekend to target illegal deer spotlighting at Mt Cole near Ararat.

Game Management Authority (GMA) Game Officers, Victoria Police and DEWLP Forest and Wildlife Officers teamed up on the weekend to target illegal deer spotlighting at Mt Cole near Ararat.

GMA Chief Executive Officer Graeme Ford said officers conducted patrols over two nights, inspected a number of people throughout the area and are now currently investigating two men for alleged illegal behaviour.

“Police discovered and seized a loaded firearm and ammunition after they were found unsecured in the back of one man’s vehicle. Anyone carrying a firearm in a vehicle must ensure it is unloaded and securely stored separately from securely stored ammunition or be prepared to face significant fines and penalties,” Mr Ford said.

“Another man is also under investigation by Police after he was found with four dogs in his vehicle in the state park and was in possession of unsecured ammunition and a prohibited knife suspected to be used to illegally hunt pigs.”

Mr Ford said the GMA will continue to work with partner agencies to target illegal hunting and dangerous and unsafe firearm use throughout Western Victoria and across the state.

"Illegal hunting and irresponsible behaviour can put people and wildlife at risk and damages the reputation of hunting. It is the responsibility of hunters to ensure they know the laws,”

Mr Ford said. “Hunters are generally a law-abiding group but there are some who choose to do the wrong thing. Those who choose to break the law can be fined or prosecuted, have their equipment confiscated and lose their game and firearms licences.”

Hunters and the public are urged to report any illegal hunting to the GMA through its website www.gma.vic.gov.au or the Customer Service Centre on 136 186 or by contacting Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or Victoria Police.

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