Man penalised for illegal Hog Deer hunting

A man from Lake Bunga near Lakes Entrance has faced the Wonthaggi Magistrates’ Court for illegally hunting Hog Deer on private property in Yanakie near Wilsons Promontory.

The man was ordered to pay a total of $826 in court fines and was placed on a diversion program with conditions of good behaviour and to complete a hunting education course.

The Game Management Authority’s (GMA) Director of Compliance and Intelligence, Zac Powell, said the man was investigated following a report of illegal hunting made to the GMA.

“The man was allegedly observed illegally spotlighting and shooting a Hog Deer on private property without permission before sunrise. He had also not applied for, obtained or attached tags to the deer,” Mr Powell said.

Mr Powell said “Illegally spotlighting deer at night is dangerous and can put communities, properties and livestock at risk.”

“Hunters must obtain a pair of Hog Deer tags before they hunt Hog Deer and present all harvested deer to a checking station within 24 hours of being taken.”

“Those who break the law face significant fines and penalties including prosecution, 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 hunting 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 hunting 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, to conduct enforcement and compliance operations across Victoria.

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