The country’s peak hunting body has declared the start to this year’s Victorian duck hunting season as outstanding.
Field & Game Australia described the season opening as “exhilarating” and marked by outstanding hunter compliance.
FGA chief executive officer Lucas Cooke said exemplary behaviour from hunters was reflected in the number of infringement notices given by Game Management Authority officers.
As of Thursday, April 25, fewer than 10 notices had been issued from more than 1000 hunters being checked — which is more than a 70 per cent reduction at the same point in last year’s season.
“As the season progresses, it is clear that responsible hunting is a positive force, not just for those involved, but for conservation and the environment,” Mr Cooke said.
"Critics claim that compliance officers aren't everywhere — however effective enforcement does not require constant surveillance.
"Police don't monitor every (city) intersection, and health inspectors don't stand in every restaurant; there's no reason why GMA officers need to be omnipresent to ensure compliance.“
Mr Cooke said hunter behaviour was ‘exactly’ what FGA expected.
“As a community, they are highly compliant.”
A source has told Country News that ‘at least’ one of the 10 infringements was given to a protestor for breaching game regulations and that a further 15 protestors had been banned from wetlands, compared to two at the same point of the season in 2023.
Concurrent seasons being run in South Australia and Tasmania have reported similar results.
However, Mr Cooke criticised the behaviour of some duck hunting protestors.
"This season has seen an increase in lawlessness within the activist community, with a record number of banning notices issued,” he said.
“Leaders from major anti-hunting organisations were among those cited for breaking the law, underscoring the double standards that exist in the debate over hunting.
“The science is clear: the consumptive harvest of ducks is completely sustainable, and hunting game birds is a responsible use of a valuable resource.
"Responsible hunting contributes to conservation efforts, environmental health, and the upkeep of public land," Mr Cooke said.
"By allowing people to access and harvest birds for their own consumption, hunting fosters a culture of stewardship and sustainable practices.
“Hunting can be a force for good.”