Firearms and equipment destroyed in illegal spotlighting bust

Five men from Bendigo have received penalties in the Benalla Magistrates Court for illegal spotlighting, hunting and firearms offences in the Tatong area near Benalla.

Five men from Bendigo have received penalties in the Benalla Magistrates Court for illegal spotlighting, hunting and firearms offences in the Tatong area near Benalla.

The men were ordered to pay a total of $4,067 in fines and court costs, and had their firearms, scopes, ammunition, gun bags and spotlights forfeited and destroyed.

The Game Management Authority’s (GMA) Director of Compliance and Intelligence, Zac Powell, said the GMA was patrolling areas where illegal spotlighting had been reported.

“Officers intercepted the men in two vehicles at night on 26 November 2023 travelling along Middle Creek Track in the Tatong area,” Mr Powell said.

“The men were found with unsecured firearms, ammunition and spotlights in their vehicles and had shot a deer in recognised deer habitat at night. Their firearms and equipment were seized on the spot.”

Mr Powell said “It is illegal to hunt any game species at night, it is dangerous and can put communities, properties and livestock at risk. It is also illegal to travel in a vehicle in recognised deer habitat 30 minutes after sunset with unsecured firearms and ammunition.”

“Those who break the law face significant fines and penalties, including prosecution, and having equipment confiscated and Game and Firearms Licences cancelled. In some cases, offenders may face jail terms.”

“Thank you to the community members and hunters who report illegal spotlighting to the GMA. These reports help us to target high-risk areas and help keep the community safe”

Hunters and the public are urged to report illegal spotlighting to the GMA through its website at gma.vic.gov.au or by calling 136 186. If an urgent response is required, call 000.

The GMA assesses all reports of illegal behaviour and works closely with its partner agencies, including Victoria Police, to conduct enforcement and compliance operations across Victoria.

Contact: Nick Foster | 0417 293 365 | nick.foster@gma.vic.gov.au