Department of Sustainability and Environment

Victorian Hunting Guide 2009

A VictorianVictorian Government Hunting initiative Guide 2009 1 SSAA (Vic) Advocating the Shooting Sports & Ethical Hunting

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JOIN NOW (03) 8892 2777 or [email protected] 2 Victorian Hunting Guide 2009www.ssaavic.com.au Welcome to the 2009 Victorian Hunting Guide.

Welcome to the 2009 Victorian Hunting Guide. The Guide is designed to provide you with information about Game hunting in 2009 and contains all the information you will need regarding the current arrangements for deer, duck and quail hunting in Victoria. This includes information on bag limits and season dates for all game species in Victoria.

In my capacity as Minister for the Environment and Climate Change, I am required to ensure that hunting is conducted sustainably to secure healthy populations of Game for the future. It is in this context — where Victoria continues to experience one of the worst droughts on record and waterfowl and their habitats are under considerable stress — that I have decided to signifi cantly restrict the 2009 duck hunting season by reducing bag limits and shortening the open season. My decision not to close the season entirely is based upon some recovery of some game duck populations and major rainfall events occurring along the eastern seaboard outside of Victoria. From The Minister From In 2008 the Victorian Government took action to improve game hunting opportunities in Victoria by:

• Improving safety with a $400,000 contribution towards a Firearm Safety Foundation to administer fi rearm education and $200,000 for the continued implementation of the Victorian Shotgunning Education Program for game bird hunters. • Securing access to hunting reserves through leased grazing land by amending the Firearms Act 1996. • Amending regulations allowing Fallow Deer to be hunted on public land, including in State forest and on unreserved Crown Land. • Allowing deer and kangaroos, culled under permit, to be taken off the property for personal use rather than being left to waste.

In addition, the Government, with assistance from stakeholders and the Hunting Advisory Committee (HAC), has been active in Game management by:

• Releasing a draft Hog Deer Management Strategy for public comment. This strategy provides a broad framework for the management of Hog Deer, while enhancing biodiversity through the maintenance of native habitat, harvest management and population control of the species. • Initiating a Property-Based Game Management program to provide a framework to better manage and formalise game hunting practices that already occur on privately property. This project will result in improved biodiversity through the improvement of habitat mosaics across privately owned land. • Improving the monitoring of harvested game in order to provide a more accurate picture of game hunting in Victoria. This includes phone surveys of game hunters conducted every two weeks during key open seasons. This information will be statistically analysed and published.

The Government is committed to improving the management of duck hunting in Victoria. This year the Government, Field and Game Australia and the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia has funded a panel of scientifi c experts to develop a framework for the sustainable harvest of waterfowl in Victoria. This framework will guide management of waterfowl harvesting in the future. The Government looks forward to receiving the independent scientifi c report in 2009.

The HAC, chaired by the Honourable Bill McGrath, continues to represent the hunting community by providing advice to the Government on matters of signifi cance to hunters in Victoria. This year the HAC’s membership will be renewed allowing interested stakeholders an opportunity to join the committee. The committee will continue to provide expertise on managing game species across Victoria and contribute to the development of further partnerships between hunters and the community. I take this time to acknowledge the work of current members and thank them for their time. I would particularly like to extend my personal gratitude to the Hon Bill McGrath for seven years of service.

Please help to maintain your recreation by adhering to Game regulations and respecting the environment. This is critical to ensuring a sustainable future for hunting in Victoria.

GAVIN JENNINGS MLC Minister for Environment and Climate Change

Disclaimer: This publication may be of assistance to you, but the State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without fl aw of any kind or if it is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication. At the time of printing, regulatory processes were still being administered to allow the all year hunting of Fallow Deer on public land where deer hunting already occurs. It is envisaged that this will come into effect in mid 2009. Hunters will be notifi ed once regulations have been amended. Publlished by the Victorian Government Department of Sustainability and Environment Melbourne, February 2009 © The State of Victoria Department of Sustainability and Environment 2009. This publication is copyright. No part may be reproduced by any process except in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright Act 1968. Authorised by the Victorian Government, 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne. Authorised by Gavin Jennings, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne. Printed by Stream Solutions ISBN 1442-021X For more information contact the DSE Customer Service Centre 136 186 Acknowledgment for images used: David Young, Mario Albanese, Ron Waters, Doug Read, Ami Bennett, Graeme Coulson and Al Mcglashan.

For advertising enquiries contact JGM Advertising on (03) 9560 0611 Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 3 1 Game Management News for 2009 Hunting Deer With a Bow/Crossbow .27 27 2 Quick Find Reference Tables Sambar Deer – Stalking ...... Sambar Deer – Hound Hunting ...... 28

Index Game Species, Bag Limits and Red Deer ...... 29 Season Dates ...... 9 Fallow Deer ...... 30 3 Licensing Rusa and Chital Deer ...... 30 Hog Deer ...... 30 Game Licences ...... 10 Applying for a Game Licence ...... 10 8 Stubble Quail Existing Game Licence Holders ...... 10 and Introduced Game Birds Paying for your Game Licence ...... 11 Introduced Game Birds ...... 34 Firearms Licences ...... 11 9 Non-Game Quail and The Bows and Crossbows ...... 11 Plains-Wanderer 35 4 General 10 Protected Wildlife 36 Use of Firearms ...... 12 Code of Practice for the 11 Pest Animals 36 Welfare of Animals in Hunting ...... 12 12 Where You Can Hunt No Night Hunting ...... 12 State Forest and Other Unoccupied Artifi cial Lights (Spotlights) ...... 12 Crown Land ...... 38 Use of Dogs in Recognised Deer State Game Reserves ...... 38 Habitat ...... 12 Sanctuaries ...... 38 Wildlife Offi cers, Parks Victoria Rangers Melbourne Water Catchment Areas ..38 and Police ...... 13 Flora and Fauna Reserves Reporting Offences ...... 13 and Nature Conservation Reserves .. 38 Hunter Education ...... 13 National Parks, State Parks, Coastal DSE’s Website ...... 13 Parks and Wilderness Parks ...... 39 5 Use of Gun Dogs Alpine Resorts ...... 39 and Hounds for Hunting Leased Crown Land ...... 39 Dog Breeds Permitted for Hunting Licenced Crown Land ...... 39 Game in Victoria ...... 14 Private Land ...... 40 Gun Dogs ...... 14 Areas Closed to Deer Hunting ...... 40 Scent-trailing Hounds ...... 14 Duck Hunting and the Murray River ..40 Training Your Gun Dog ...... 14 Deer Hunting Maps ...... 40 Training Your Scent-trailing Hounds 13 Firearms Safety 42 ...... 15 14 Camping and Care Care of Dogs When Hunting ...... 15 of the Environment 6 2009 Duck Season Care of the Environment ...... 43 2009 Duck Season Arrangements...... 18 Campfi res ...... 43 Game Ducks ...... 18 Rubbish, It’s Your Responsibility ...... 43 Open Season and Bag Limits...... 18 Caring for Waterways ...... 44 Opening Times ...... 18 Vehicles ...... 44 Waterfowl Identifi cation Test ...... 20 Seasonal Road Closures ...... 44 Non-Toxic Shot ...... 21 Parks Victoria ...... 44 Hides ...... 22 15 More Information About Responsible Boating ...... 22 Hunting Game Hunters and Blue-Green Algae ...... 23 Important Regulations to Remember ..23 Contacts for Hunting What Hunters Need to Know and Related Organisations ...... 45 About Avian Infl uenza ...... 23 Parks Victoria Contact ...... 45 DSE Contacts ...... 45 7 Deer 16 Sunrise and Sunset Times in Deer Hunting in Victoria...... 27 Melbourne 46

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W winchesteraustralia.com.au or E [email protected] Winchester Australia, PO Box 776, Geelong Vic Australia 3220 WDOA_5773_RFA Victorian Hunting ONGuide TARGET 2009 EVERY5 TIME As Chairman of the Victorian Hunting Advisory • Facilitated a compliance workshop to look at Committee (HAC), I am pleased to present this illegal hunting. This workshop was attended report to the Victorian game hunting community, by approximately 50 hunting organisation summarising important issues considered representatives, land managers and other by the HAC and outlining some of the key government agencies. The workshop achievements for the past year. identifi ed common issues and investigated appropriate mitigation measures that could Before continuing with this report I would like be taken. More importantly it highlighted to acknowledge the commitment and efforts of how effective agencies can be when they Mr Otto Ruf, HAC member, who passed away engage with their stakeholders. this year in tragic circumstances, while coming • Led the development of an Adaptive Harvest back from a hunting trip. Management scientifi c panel. The Field and Game Australia (FGA) and Sporting Mr Ruf was a great advocate for the hunting Shooters’ Association of Australia (SSAA) fraternity and the wider community in general; joined with the Victorian Government to his counsel will be sadly missed. fund this important project. This panel has

Report From The Victorian Report From been directed to develop a framework for the HAC met on six occasions and addressed a sustainable harvest of waterfowl in Victoria. Hunting Advisory Committee number of important issues. HAC’s primary The panel met in 2008, and following another role is to advise the Minister for Environment meeting in the fi rst quarter of 2009 will deliver and Climate Change and the Department of its fi ndings to the government. Suitability and Environment (DSE) on matters • Considered and supported approaches to related to the management of game and improve hunter education and safety. hunting in Victoria. In addition to this, the • Received reports and supported the Committee represents the hunting community Enhancing Game Management initiative. by providing representation where required to This initiative saw the appointment of three other government bodies. regionally based game managers. HAC is looking forward to seeing the outcomes from The Committee for 2008 comprised their 2009 work program. representatives from the hunting community, • Recommended to the Minister for Environment Parks Victoria, DSE, Bureau for Animal Welfare and Climate Change, a modifi ed 2009 and the Victoria Farmers Federation. The term Victorian duck hunting season, in recognition for Committee members expires in July 2009, of current environmental conditions. providing an opportunity for new members to be appointed. These are only some of the activities that the HAC has been involved in, and coupled with the A subcommittee of HAC oversaw the many sessions of representation made on behalf completion of practical training delivered under of the hunting community to both government the Shotgunning Education Program (SEP). and their departments; it refl ects the dedication This program has seen 13 trainees from the and commitment of the HAC members. duck hunting community attend and complete two 7 day training courses, providing them with I congratulate HAC members for all their efforts, the expertise to deliver similar programs to support and commitment to game management other game bird hunters. in Victoria. The many achievements made by HAC have been made possible by the great Education and extension material from this members that have sat on the Committee program will be distributed to all licenced during my tenure as Chair. waterfowl hunters later this year. The importance of this program cannot be underestimated, as it is shown to make more effective hunters through the improvement of hunter skills and behaviour. Contrary to the beliefs of some, The Hon. Bill McGrath, Chairman SEP is not a clay shooting course, but rather Victorian Hunting Advisory Committee delivers a comprehensive set of skills in all facets of hunting. This will be a much sought Committee contacted: after program by hunters in the future. I am Mr Stewart McGlashan - Executive Offi cer pleased that the duck hunting community has Victorian Hunting Advisory Committee 2/8 Nicholson Street, EAST MELBOURNE VIC 3002 been proactive and supported this program. Phone (03) 9637 9879 Email: [email protected] The HAC also:

6 Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 Enhancing Game Management success rates and game hunting trends. in Victoria This year, phone surveys of game hunters have been conducted every two weeks In 2006, the Victorian Government launched during key seasonal periods. It is expected a $2.5 million Enhancing Game Management that this survey technique will provide a more initiative. Three regionally based DSE Game accurate picture of annual game hunting, in Managers were appointed to facilitate targeted Victoria. projects aimed to better manage game species • Communication Strategy

(such as ducks, quail and deer) and their A number of focus groups were held, with News for 2009 habitats, and involve community groups in representatives from the hunting community on-ground conservation works. Although the to assessing and prioritise appropriate Game Managers are based in Tallangatta, Swan hunting and conservation messages and

Hill and Bairnsdale, they are undertaking works develop education and extension material. 1 Game Management with a statewide focus. This material is to be delivered to the community over the next couple of years. Throughout 2008, Game Managers have worked with landholders, hunting groups and Shotgunning Education Programme agencies on conservation activities to improve biodiversity and hunting opportunities. Many of The Shotgunning Education Programme (SEP) the works are aimed at improving habitat and is a new and comprehensive approach to monitoring game populations across Victoria. educating and training Australian hunters. The SEP was developed by the DSE in partnership In addition Game Managers have actively with FGA and SSAA. engaged in assisting the hunting community with conservation programs, such as fox SEP aims to present key skills and knowledge drives. which are an essential part of becoming a better (ethical and effi cient) bird hunter. Game Managers have been active with hunting organisations, presenting on Game Management The SEP is recognised by Australian and Projects. Game Managers have had extensive International wildlife agencies and national involvement with stakeholders and are more hunting and conservation organisations as the than willing to present at meetings or events, or most effective means of addressing hunter assist in the coordination of project work. For attitudes/behaviour, hunter skills, hunting further information, contact Andrea Brumley on practices and issues such as waterfowl (03) 5152 0400 or email: wounding losses. A booklet will be made [email protected]. available to every licenced game bird hunter in Victoria in 2009. Projects involving Game Managers include:

• Property-Based Game Management Surveys and Monitoring Program This program is designed to increase Each year DSE surveys hunters on their hunting habitat mosaics across private property experience. Surveys may be conducted over resulting in healthy game populations and an the phone or by post, so it is important your enhancement of biodiversity. Landowners address and contact details are kept up to are encouraged to modify land management date. Contact the DSE Customer Service practices to improve game species and Centre on 136 186 to confi rm or update your habitats on private land. Hunters may contact details. Alternatively, you can ensure partner Landowners in the program through your contact details are current by fi lling out providing in-kind works such as the removal and returning to DSE the address fl yer sent of feral animals. In addition, landowners to you with this Guide. Please supply your have the opportunity to enhance incomes telephone number when you return the address by allowing commercial access to enhanced fl yer to DSE. game populations on their properties. Anyone interested in further information should email: All personal information is handled in [email protected] accordance with the Information Privacy Act • Improved Monitoring of Game Harvested 2000. Each year the department conducts annual hunter mail surveys to ascertain hunter effort,

Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 7 Hunting Guide Cover Photo Competition 2009

The Game Management Council of Victoria Inc is again sponsoring the Hunting Guide front cover photo competition for 2010 for an image that best depicts the hunting experience. The winner will receive a cash prize of $300. Entries are judged by the Victorian Hunting Advisory Committee. Photographs submitted but not used for the front cover may be used elsewhere in the Guide, unless you specifi cally indicate otherwise. All contributions will be 1 Game Management acknowledged.

Entries must be provided as either a transparency

News for 2009 (continued) (ie. as slide fi lm) or as a high resolution digital image of no less than 4 megapixels. Standard photographic prints, scanned photographic prints or digital images outside these specifi cations will not be accepted.

Guidelines for the types of images that will be accepted are available from Game Management on (03) 9637 9879. The competition closes at the end of September 2009.

Images can be submitted by post to:

Delegate to the Victorian Hunting Advisory Committee Level 2, 8 Nicholson Street East Melbourne, Vic, 8002 or by email to [email protected]

8 Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 Game Species 2009 Open Season Dates Bag Limit Quail Stubble Quail 4 April – 30 June 20 birds per day Introduced Game Birds Pheasants and partridges All year No limit European Quail Californian Quail Duck Pacifi c Black Duck 21 March - 8 May 2 Ducks with an additional 3 Grey Teal Wood Ducks Mountain Duck (Australian Shelduck) Maned Duck (Wood Duck) Chestnut Teal Ducks excluded in 2009 Closed Total ban include: Blue-winged Shoveler Hardhead (White-eyed Duck) Pink-eared Duck Deer Hog Deer 1 April – 30 April One male and one female Tables 2 Quick Find Reference Red Deer 1 June – 31 July No limit Sambar Deer (stalking only) All year No limit Sambar Deer (hound hunting) 25 April - 30 November No limit Fallow Deer All year No limit Chital Deer All year No limit Rusa Deer All year No limit

Type of Game Licence Game Species Game Licence Fee Available Which May Be Hunted per year or part thereof* Deer (stalking) Stalking of Hog Deer, Sambar Deer, $45.40 Red Deer, Fallow Deer Deer (stalking and hounds) Hound hunting of Sambar Deer and $45.40 stalking of Hog Deer, Sambar Deer, Red Deer, Fallow Deer Game birds (including duck) Stubble Quail; European Quail; $45.40 pheasants; partridges and eight species of waterfowl Game birds Stubble Quail; European Quail; $45.40 (not including duck) pheasants and partridges Game birds (including duck) and Stubble Quail; European Quail; $72.60 deer (stalking) pheasants; partridges; eight species of waterfowl and stalking of Hog Deer, Sambar Deer, Red Deer, Fallow Deer

Game birds (including duck) and Stubble Quail; European Quail; $72.60 deer (stalking and hounds) pheasants; partridges; eight species of waterfowl; hound hunting of Sambar Deer and stalking of Hog Deer, Sambar Deer, Red Deer, Fallow Deer Game birds (not including duck) Stubble Quail; European Quail; $72.60 and deer (stalking) pheasants; partridges and stalking of Hog Deer, Sambar Deer, Red Deer, Fallow Deer Game birds (not including duck) Stubble Quail; European Quail; $72.60 and deer (stalking and hounds) pheasants; partridges; hound hunting of Sambar Deer and stalking of Hog Deer, Sambar Deer, Red Deer, Fallow Deer

* Fees are current until 30 June 2009. Pensioners and junior hunters (those aged between 12 and 17 years) receive a 50% discount. Fees are subject to a 10c rounding. Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 9 Game Licences Information for international applicants Hunters from interstate or overseas, who wish For information or queries regarding Game to receive a Game Licence before arriving in Licensing issues, please contact the DSE Victoria, can obtain the application form from Customer Service Centre on 136 186 between the DSE website at www.dse.vic.gov.au. 8am and 6pm or by post: Alternatively, hunters can pay at a DSE offi ce

3 Licensing Wildlife and Game Licensing Service and obtain a receipt which acts as an interim PO Box 500, East Melbourne 8002 Licence. Non-Victorian hunters wishing to hunt or visit the DSE website either ducks or Sambar Deer with hounds must www.dse.vic.gov.au pass either the Waterfowl Identifi cation Test or Hound Hunting Test respectively. Applying For a Game Licence Overseas visitors intending to use fi rearms Anyone wishing to hunt game in Victoria, for hunting in Victoria may apply to the Chief including juniors (12-17 years), must hold a Commissioner Victoria Police, for a permit to current Game Licence. “game” includes those possess, carry or use a fi rearm. For information species of duck, deer, quail, pheasants and on Firearms Licences and the possession, partridges declared to be game in Victoria and use and ownership of fi rearms, contact the for which an open season has been declared. A Licensing Services Branch, Victoria Police, on range of licence types is available, depending 1300 651 645. on the requirements of the individual hunter. For a full listing, see Section 2, Quick-fi nd Reference Game Licence applications may be lodged Tables. The Game licence must be endorsed for by mail as described on the application form the appropriate type(s) of game that you wish or over the counter at any of the DSE offi ces to hunt and only permits you to hunt game in listed on page 21, between 9am and 5pm, Victoria. If you are younger than 12 years old Monday to Friday. Upon receipt of payment, you are not permitted to use a fi rearm or to hunt your application will be processed and a Game or take game. Licence sent to you in the mail. The turn- around time for Game Licence applications is You can apply for a Game Licence, through approximately three working weeks, however, DSE Customer Service Centre on 136 186. delays may occur during peak periods. Alternatively, you can download the application form from the DSE website at Game Licence fees are listed in Section 2, www.dse.vic.gov.au. Quick-Find Reference Tables. Pensioners and juniors are eligible to receive a 50% discount on the price of a Licence. Fees are subject to What if I want to hunt ducks? a 10c rounding. Before you can hunt duck you need to pass the Waterfowl Identifi cation Test. This test ensures that only those hunters able to demonstrate Existing Game Licence Holders adequate identifi cation skills are permitted to hunt ducks in Victoria. For more information If you have an existing Game Licence, a on the Waterfowl Identifi cation Test, please see payment notice will be sent to you in the mail page 20 of this guide or visit the DSE website at approximately six weeks before your Licence www.dse.vic.gov.au. is due to expire. Should you wish to renew your Licence, please follow the instructions on the payment notice. Your new Licence will What if I want to hunt Sambar Deer with be sent to you after receipt of payment. The scent-trailing hounds? turn-around time for Game Licence renewals is Before you can hunt Sambar Deer with hounds approximately three working weeks, however, you need to pass the Hound Hunting Test. delays may occur during peak periods. Please This test is designed to ensure that hunters note that early payment of Game Licence using scent-trailing hounds to hunt Sambar renewals will facilitate the early issue of a Deer are aware of their legal, ethical and renewed Licence. safety requirements when hunting. For more information on this test, please see page 28 of this Guide or visit the DSE’s website at Have you changed your address? www.dse.vic.gov.au. If you change your address, you must advise the Wildlife and Game Licensing Service within seven days of doing so. Please contact the DSE

10 Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 Customer Service Centre on 136 186 between can pay by the following methods: 8am and 6pm on weekdays, to notify of any change of addresses. • Phone (by credit card) • Internet (by credit card) A new Licence with your updated details will • Mail (cheque or money order) See above. be sent to you free of charge. Providing your new address also ensures that you will receive For more information, please call the a copy of the Victorian Hunting Guide and any Department’s Customer Service Centre on other information that the Department needs to 136-186, Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm. send to you. Customer Service Centre hours How do I amend my Licence type? The Customer Service Centre’s hours are from To change your Licence type, please contact 8am until 6pm Monday to Friday. the DSE Customer Service Centre on 136 186 to have a Game Licence amendment form sent Hunting on a receipt to you. You will then need to complete the form If you pay for your Game Licence in person at 3 Licensing (continued) and send it to the Accounts Receivable Centre, a DSE offi ce, you will be issued with a receipt. Department of Sustainability and Environment, This receipt is deemed to be an ‘interim licence’, PO Box 500, East Melbourne, Victoria, 8002, and you can hunt with this until you receive together with a cheque or money order for a your Licence in the mail. If you sent a cheque $11.30* administration fee and any additional or money order by mail and you have confi rmed payment for the Licence type you wish to that this has been cashed, you may hunt using obtain. Upon receipt of payment, an updated your cheque stub or money order stub as proof Licence will be sent to you. of payment. This applies to payment receipts for all new, renewed or amended Licences. If your Game Licence is lost or stolen, you will need to send a signed Statutory Declaration, Firearms Licences outlining your circumstances, together with a cheque or money order for a $11.30* To possess, use or carry a fi rearm in Victoria, you replacement fee, to the Accounts Receivable must hold and carry a current Firearms Licence Centre (GAME), Department of Sustainability issued by Victoria Police or any equivalent and Environment, PO Box 500, East Melbourne, current interstate Firearms Licence. In addition, Victoria, 8002. Upon receipt of payment, a new all fi rearms must be registered. This includes Licence will be sent to you. all shotguns and rifl es (including air rifl es). For information on Firearms Licences and the * Fees are current until 30 June 2009 possession, use and ownership of fi rearms, contact your Regional Firearms Offi cer or the Paying for your Game Licence Licensing Services Branch, Victoria Police, on 1300 651 645. Applications First time applicants and hunters who have previously held a Game Licence that expired Bows and Crossbows prior to 31 December 2008 can pay for their Game Licence, in person, at a DSE offi ce. A list Use of a bow is permitted provided you have of DSE offi ces is listed on page 21. Alternatively, a ‘lawful excuse’. A ‘lawful excuse’ is defi ned you can mail a cheque or money order for the under section 7(2) of the Control of Weapons correct amount to: Act 1990.

Accounts Receivable (GAME), As of 1 June 2004, crossbows were reclassifi ed Department of Sustainability and Environment, as ‘prohibited weapons’ in Victoria. To possess PO Box 500, East Melbourne, Victoria, 8002. a prohibited weapon in Victoria, you must hold a Chief Commissioners Approval or be subject For further information on Game Licences, to a Governor in Council Exemption. please see page 10 of this Guide. For further information, please contact your local Victoria Police station. Renewals are not payable in person over the counter at DSE offi ce Hunters whose Game Licence expired on 31 December 2008 and has not yet been renewed

Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 11 Use of Firearms This regulation does not apply when a fi rearm is unloaded and ‘secured’ in a vehicle and When hunting with a fi rearm, it is your the spotlight is not in use. To be ‘secured’ responsibility to ensure that your actions do the fi rearm must be unloaded and stored in not put the safety of yourself or others at risk. a closed case or container (eg. a gun case or You should know the eight basic fi rearm safety bag) and stowed in the boot or storage area

4 General rules (see page 42) before handling fi rearms of a sedan, dual cab or wagon. For a utility or and insist anyone who goes shooting with you single cab, the unloaded fi rearm must be stored follows these rules. Remember, you must not in a closed case or container and stowed in a carry a loaded fi rearm or use a fi rearm in a town part of the vehicle not readily accessible by any or populous place (eg. picnic area, camp site) occupants (eg. a box on the tray). The same or on or over any area of public or private land storage requirements for fi rearms apply to any where hunting is not permitted. Also, you must ammunition and magazines, but they must not not carry a loaded fi rearm or use a fi rearm on be stored in the glove box. any thoroughfare or place open to or used by the public for passage with vehicles. ‘Recognised deer habitat’ is defi ned as all areas of Crown land in the following Victorian Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals Municipalities: in Hunting Alpine Benalla Rural City and Mansfi eld Shire A Code of Practice is in place for the welfare of Council (formerly animals in hunting. The code was developed to Delatite) prevent cruelty and encourage the considerate treatment of animals that are hunted, and Ararat Rural City East Gippsland those that are used in hunting, and to protect Baw Baw Glenelg the welfare of other animals where hunting Cardinia Horsham Rural City occurs. The Code sets out guidelines for hunter Colac-Otway Murrindindi behaviour to ensure animals (game and non- Corangamite Northern Grampians game) are treated humanely. To enhance the Pyrenees Wellington environment and its wildlife, the Code supports the participation of hunters in conservation Rural City of Wangaratta Whittlesea City programs. South Gippsland Yarra Ranges Southern Grampians For a copy of the Code, visit the Department Strathbogie of Primary Industries website: www.dpi.vic.gov. Towong au, or contact the Bureau of Animal Welfare on (03) 9217 4200, for further details. There are a number of exemptions to this regulation. Hunters may carry or use artifi cial No Night Hunting lights with a power source of 4.5 volts or less for safety purposes when hunting, provided The hunting of game at night (defi ned as the light is not used to hunt deer. Hunters may between half an hour after sunset to half an hour also use lights for domestic purposes around before sunrise) in Victoria is not permitted. the camp. Landowners/managers and/or their agents may use a spotlight for the purposes of pest animal control to a distance of 500 metres Artifi cial Lights (Spotlights) outside the boundary of their land, provided the use of fi rearms is not prohibited at such a The use of artifi cial lights (including spotlights, locality and they are not hunting game vehicle headlights, infrared devices and night vision equipment) to hunt or assist in the hunting of any game is prohibited. Also, you must not Use of Dogs in Recognised Deer Habitat be in possession of a spotlight and a fi rearm on any area of public land in ‘recognised deer To reduce the use of illegal breeds of dog to habitat’ during the hours between sunset and hunt Sambar Deer, all dogs used for pest animal sunrise. It is also illegal to work in tandem with hunting purposes on public land in recognised another person in possession of a spotlight or deer habitat must be restrained at all times (eg. fi rearm on any area of public land in ‘recognised on a leash). This law does not apply to gundogs deer habitat’ during the hours between sunset or registered scent-trailing hounds used to hunt and sunrise. game during their respective open seasons.

12 Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 Wildlife Offi cers, Parks Victoria Rangers Hunter Education and Police Some hunting organisations offer hunter When hunting, you may be stopped by a DSE education courses. These courses often Wildlife Offi cer, a Parks Victoria Ranger or address fi rearm safety issues, bush craft, member of the Police force. An Offi cer may legislative requirements for game hunters, game not always wear a uniform. However, they will biology and hunting skills. For further details, always display their offi cial identifi cation to please contact relevant hunting organisations you. on page 45.

If you are approached by an offi cer in the fi eld, DSE’s Website you will be directed to unload any fi rearm in your possession. You may also be asked to hand The DSE game hunting website contains the offi cer your Firearms or Game Licence and comprehensive information about game hunting to provide the offi cer with your correct name in Victoria, including non-toxic shot, waterfowl 4 General (continued) and address. Offi cers may also wish to inspect identifi cation and legislation on game hunting your bag of game. Failure to comply with any in Victoria. The Victorian Hunting Guide is also of these requests may result in a fi ne or your available on the web. In addition, many useful arrest. information sheets on game hunting, Duck, Deer and Quail and maps of State Game Reserves Wildlife Offi cers, Parks Victoria Rangers and and a series of maps showing where you can members of the Police force have extensive hunt deer throughout Victoria are also available. powers of search and entry and may stop Video footage from the Waterfowl Identifi cation any boat or vehicle to carry out inspections, Test is available and includes transcripts of the if an offi cer believes that an offence has been narration. committed. They may also seize any game or wildlife or any equipment that has been used in We encourage you to visit the website to keep the commission of an alleged offence, including up to date on game hunting in Victoria. fi rearms, boats and vehicles. To access the DSE hunting website, go to www.dse.vic.gov.au and click on ‘Recreation Reporting Offences and Tourism and then click on ‘Game Hunting’.

The Department welcomes reports of suspected illegal hunting activities. Where an immediate response is not possible, the information received will be recorded in a database and PARA PARK assist with targeting ongoing enforcement operations. To report illegal hunting activity, please call the DSE Customer Service Centre CO-OPERATIVE on 136 186 or your local DSE offi ce. Your report can be lodged anonymously or you may wish GAME RESERVE to provide personal details. All information provided to DSE will remain confi dential.

Help to protect your resource • Hog Deer Hunting Report illegal game theft. Call 136 186. • Fallow Deer Hunting • Hands On Game Important information to give DSE includes: Management Involvement • Time and date • Fishing • Place • Number of people involved • Number of vehicles involved For further information contact: • Vehicle registration Para Park Co-operative Game Reserve PO Box 801, Lilydale Vic 3140 • Type of vehicle Tel: (03) 9737 6288 Fax: (03) 9737 6977 • Activity (eg spotlighting) www.parapark.com

Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 13 Hunters are responsible for the training, Setters and Other behaviour and conditioning of their hunting Pointers dogs. It is the owner’s responsibility to care for their dogs when in the fi eld and to be aware Gordon Weimaraner of any signs of stress or injury. In addition, Irish Red and White Large Munsterlander hunters should always be considerate of other Irish Hungarian Viszla public land users and ensure their dogs are English Italian Spinone for Hunting under control at all times. Ultimately, and German Shorthaired importantly, hunters are responsible for the German Wirehaired actions of their dogs. (Deutsch Drahthaar) Pointer Under no circumstances should dogs be set onto game. Any gun dog or hound that attacks or maims another animal must not be used for A hunter may use no more than two gundogs hunting. when actively hunting in the fi eld. When hunting Sambar Deer with the aid of gundogs as part of a team, that team may use no more than two Dog Breeds Permitted for Hunting Game gundogs. in Victoria

5 Use of Gun Dogs and Hounds It takes much time and dedication to train a In Victoria, only those breeds of dog recognised gundog to hunt game effectively. Many clubs as “gun dogs” or “scent-trailing hounds” may have been established to assist members in be used to hunt game birds and/or Sambar effectively training their dogs. These clubs also Deer. Other breeds must not be used. organise fi eld trials where dogs can compete and showcase their talents. Gun dogs may only Gun Dogs be used in fi eld trials conducted during the open season by organisations approved by the Many hunters use trained gundogs to assist Secretary of the Department of Sustainability them while hunting game. Gundogs can be and Environment. particularly useful when hunting to locate game that may otherwise be lost. The popular breeds Scent-trailing Hounds of gundog used to hunt game have been selectively developed over centuries to fl ush, Scent-trailing hounds may be used to hunt point or retrieve. They are bred from stock Sambar Deer (see section 7 page 28 Sambar that instinctively hunt and are non-aggressive, Deer – Hound Hunting). obedient, obey commands from the hunter, only hunt certain types of game and ignore Training Your Gun Dog distractions in the fi eld. Gun dogs may be used to fl ush or retrieve The following gun dog breeds are permitted to game birds during the declared open season. hunt Sambar Deer and game birds: Outside the season, hunters or gun dog enthusiasts may train gun dogs to locate and Spaniels Retrievers fl ush birds, provided that the person or persons accompanying the dogs are not carrying or Brittany (Epagnuel Chesapeake Bay using a fi rearm, other than a starter’s pistol. Breton) Curly Coated Hunters intending to use starter’s pistols to train Clumber Flat Coated gundogs should contact their local Regional Cocker (American) Golden Firearms offi cer for more information on their Field Labrador responsibilities under the Firearms Act 1996 Irish Water Nova Scotia Duck before entering the fi eld. Sussex Tolling Welsh Springer Gun dogs can only be trained on State Game English Springer Reserves 48 hours prior and during a quail or duck season.

14 Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 Training Your Scent-trailing Hounds

When training scent-trailing hounds, no more than two juvenile dogs may be trained with a team of hounds at any one time. In total, the hound team must not number more than fi ve dogs. For more information on the hunting of Sambar Deer with the aid of scent-trailing hounds, see page 28 of this Guide.

Care of Dogs When Hunting

Dogs used to assist in the hunting of game should be healthy and in good physical condition. They should not be used under for Hunting (continued) conditions where there is an unacceptable risk of injury or heat stress. To avoid heat exhaustion for your dogs, hunt when temperatures are less extreme (eg. early morning and evening) and be sure to provide your dogs with plenty of water. 5 Use of Gun Dogs and Hounds If a dog is injured when in the fi eld, ensure that it receives fi rst aid or professional attention as soon as possible.

GAME MANAGEMENT COUNCIL OF VICTORIA (GAMECON VIC) INC. EDUCATION + CONSERVATION = MANAGEMENT

While you are out hunting, the Game Management Council Gamecon Vic, in partnership of Victoria is hard at work on your behalf. with the Victorian Hunting Advisory Committee and correspondence with the The Game Management Council of Victoria (Gamecon (Vic)) is the peak body Minister for the Environment representing organisations involved with field and water sports and related flora and Climate Change, continues and fauna interests in Victoria. Gamecon (Vic) represents over 70,000 individuals to take a proactive role on through a membership that includes the following organisations: behalf of all member groups.

• Australian Deer Association • North Eastern Deerstalkers Association • Field and Game Australia • Para Park Game Cooperative With your support for Gamecon (Vic) we can support you. • Game Environment • Sporting Shooters Association of Conservation Office Australia (Vic) For further information, contact • Geelong Gun and Rod • Victorian Deer Association Johan Jansen • Gippsland Deerstalkers Association • Victorian Hound Hunters Chairman – 5146 4403

Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 15

16 Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 17 ATTENTION ALL DUCK HUNTERS DUE TO ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS THE 2009 DUCK SEASON HAS BEEN MODIFIED.

The following changes to normal arrangements have been made: • Two Ducks with an additional three Wood Ducks. • The season duration has been shortened, opening on 21 March 2009 and closing on Friday 8 May 2009. • There is a total ban on the taking of Blue Wing Shoveller, Pink-eared Duck and Hardhead Duck.

Victoria continues to be infl uenced by long-term Opening Times drought conditions. Environmental conditions are similar to previous years, however, fl ood Hunting under poor light conditions may

6 2009 Duck Season events have improved some waterbird breeding compromise your ability to positively sites, in NSW and Queensland. As a result identify game species and could affect your harvesting levels have been restricted in the marksmanship. This is particularly important on context of a relatively depressed population opening day when the majority of duck hunters with reduced habitat availability in Victoria. are active. Make sure you know the opening times at all times throughout the season and, Game Ducks most importantly, stick to these times. In doing so, you will not only reduce the possibility of Five (5) species of native duck may be hunted shooting non-game species or wounding birds, during the 2009 open season. They are: Pacifi c but you will improve the hunting experience for Black Duck, Chestnut Teal, Grey Teal, Australian all hunters on the wetland. Shelduck (Mountain Duck), and Maned Duck (Wood Duck). If you are caught shooting early, Wildlife Offi cers, Parks Victoria Rangers, members of the Police Blue-winged Shoveler, Hardhead (White-eyed force and other Authorised Offi cers may seize Duck) and Pink-eared Duck will be protected your fi rearm and you may be charged with an this year and must not be hunted in 2009. For offence. information and colour illustrations of Victoria’s game ducks, see “A Guide to Australian Opening day start time: see map on page 20 Waterfowl” at the Department’s website: Victoria will be divided into three zones, each www.dse.vic.gov.au with different opening times. East of longitude 146° 30’ east, the season will open at 7.10 Open Season and Bag Limits am; between 146° 30’ east and 142° 30’ east, the season will open at 7.20 am; and west of Duck hunting is permitted only during the longitude 142° 30’, the season will open at 7.30 open season from half an hour before sunrise am. Hunting on opening day (21 March 2009) is until half an hour after sunset on every day of not permitted after half an hour after sunset. the season, except for the fi rst day of the season when fi xed opening times prevail Open and close times for rest of the season (see below). (any day after opening day): For the remainder of the season, duck hunting Bag limit: Two Ducks with an additional three is permitted from half an hour before sunrise wood ducks. There is a total ban on the taking to half an hour after sunset. See below for of Blue Wing Shoveller, Pink-eared Duck and information on calculating permitted hunting Hardhead Duck. times for the remainder of the season.

Hunting method: shotgun only, not exceeding A Guide to Sunrise and Sunset Times 12 gauge. Lead shot must not be used to hunt for Duck Hunters duck in Victoria (some exemptions apply). As sunrise and sunset times vary throughout the State and during the season, legal hunting Open season: from the third Saturday in March times also vary. To help you calculate the legal (21 March 2009) until half an hour after sunset hunting times in your area, the Guide provides on Friday 8 May 2009. the following information:

18 Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 Huge Discounts on new guns

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HEADQUARTERS OF BRILEY AUSTRALIA N Blaser Rifles & F3 Shotguns N Full Gunsmithing Services & Repairs N Schmidt & Bender Scopes N Underground Pattern Testing Range N Binoculars N Full Range of Briley Services N Hats - Huge Range N Choke Installations & Alterations N Competition Shooting Clothes N Competition Shooting Glasses N Full Range of Hunting Clothing N Waders & Accessories GET READY FOR DUCK SEASON Guns, Ammo, Decoys, Waders, Camo Clothing, Accessories Steel Shot Conversions Serving the shooting enthusiast since 1972 MIALLS GUN SHOP / BRILEY AUSTRALIA 59-61 PLAYNE ST FRANKSTON VICTORIA 3199 Ph. 03 9783 1576 Fax. 03 9783 7887 email: [email protected] www.mialls.com.au Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 19 • Sunrise and sunset alter by four minutes for Hunting is therefore permitted between 7:05 each degree of longitude across the State. am (30 minutes before sunrise) and 7:51 pm Basically, Victoria extends from 141° in the EST (30 minutes after sunset) at Kerang on 30 west to 150° in the east. Melbourne is near March 2009 (refer to Section 16 page 46). the 145° line. • If your hunting location is EAST of 145° Waterfowl Identifi cation Test (Melbourne), sunrise and sunset times can be calculated by subtracting four minutes, You must have a Victorian Game Licence from the offi cial sunrise and sunset times endorsed for “game birds including duck” to for Melbourne, for each degree of longitude. hunt duck in Victoria; this applies to hunters Anywhere WEST of the Melbourne line, four from interstate and overseas as well. Prior to minutes are to be added for each degree of applying for a Game Licence to hunt game longitude. birds including duck, you must pass the Waterfowl Identifi cation Test. The test ensures Calculating Permitted Hunting Times that only those hunters able to demonstrate The following is an example of how to calculate adequate identifi cation skills will be permitted hunting times in the Kerang lakes region on 30 to hunt duck. Waterfowl Identifi cation Tests are March 2009: conducted at selected DSE Offi ces and TAFE institutes throughout the State. People who

6 2009 Duck Season (continued) • Kerang is one degree west of Melbourne. pass the test receive a Certifi cate of Profi ciency • Offi cial sunrise is 7:31am (Eastern Standard and those who obtain an “AA” pass also receive Daylight Time) at Melbourne. a merit badge. • Sunrise at Kerang is, therefore 7.31am plus four minutes = 7:35am. Hunters who have a Game Licence for “game • Offi cial sunset is 7:17pm (Eastern Standard birds including duck” do not need to carry Time) at Melbourne. their Certifi cate of Profi ciency in the fi eld while • Sunset at Kerang is, therefore, 7:17pm plus hunting duck. four minutes = 7:21pm.

20 Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 Application forms to sit the Waterfowl viewing the DVD “Ducks in Sight”. “Ducks in Identifi cation Test and lists of test centres can Sight” is available from selected DSE offi ces, be obtained from your nearest DSE Offi ce. Field and Game Australia on (03) 5799 0960, The cost of the test is $24.90, with a fast track and can also be borrowed from some local service (24 hour turn-around) available for libraries. Extract video footage from the $68.60 (fees are current until 30 June 2009). “Ducks in Sight” DVD is also available on the Contact names and numbers are provided Department’s website. below: Non-Toxic Shot Ballarat DSE Jim O’Brien (03) 5336 6718 The use of lead shot for duck hunting is prohibited throughout Victoria. This includes Benalla DSE duck hunting on all wetlands, waterways and Greg Chant (03) 5761 1522 dry lands on public and private land. However, there are exemptions to this regulation. Hunters Box Hill DSE using muzzle-loading, Damascus steel or twist- Glenn Sharp (03) 9296 4621 barreled shotguns for duck hunting are exempt from the mandatory use of non-toxic shot. All Colac DSE other hunters must use non-toxic shot for duck

Stan Williams (03) 5233 5504 hunting in Victoria. 6 2009 Duck Season (continued)

East Gippsland DSE The non-toxic shot types permitted for use Bairnsdale Reception (03) 5152 0400 are: steel (soft iron), bismuth, tungsten-matrix, tungsten-iron, tungsten-polymer and tin. All Epsom DSE have been rigorously tested and are considered Reception (03) 5430 4444 to be non-toxic to wildlife. No other shot types (eg. zinc) can be used to hunt duck in Geelong DSE Victoria. Doug Winkle (03) 5226 4779 When used appropriately, these non-toxic Horsham, University of Ballarat alternatives are safe and effective, but vary Wimmera Campus in price. Hunters should check with their Lyn Parish (03) 5362 2636 ammunition supplier to see which alternatives best suit their needs. Hunters should also Mildura DSE check with their fi rearm’s manufacturer or Reception (03) 5051 4500 gunsmith to ensure that it is safe to use certain (co-ordinating test centres at Bendigo, Mildura shot alternatives in their fi rearm. and Swan Hill) Possession of shot South Australia Duck hunters may have toxic shot (eg. lead National Parks and Wildlife Service shot) on a State Game Reserve or any other Don Mount (08) 8735 1173 area where they intend to hunt duck, provided it is secured in a vehicle. For toxic shot to be Swan Hill DSE secured in a vehicle, the ammunition must be Murray Rohde (03) 5033 1290 stored in a closed case or container and stowed in the boot or storage area (that is not the glove Wangaratta DSE (including upper North East) box) of a sedan, dual cab or wagon. For a ute Leigh Murray (03) 5723 8600 or single cab, the ammunition must be stored in a closed case or container and stowed in a West and South Gippsland DSE part of the vehicle not readily accessible by any Traralgon Reception (03) 5172 2111 occupant of the vehicle.

Prior to sitting the test, hunters may improve If you carry lead shot while hunting ducks their identifi cation skills by referring to the (unless using an exempt fi rearm) you will be publication “A Guide to Australian Waterfowl” committing an offence. Hunters should note (see DSE website: www.dse.vic.gov.au and that lead shot may be used for quail hunting

Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 21 on the 16 State Game Reserves where quail • Tell someone where you are going and when hunting is permitted during the quail season. you will return.

If you are unsure about any of these PFD’s are required to be worn under certain arrangements, please contact the DSE circumstances, check with Marine Safety Customer Service Centre on 136 186 or your Victorian on 1800 223 022. local DSE offi ce before you go hunting.

More information on the use of non-toxic shot Duck hunting gear such as waders and for duck hunting can also be found on the DSE bulky clothing can hinder swimming and website at www.dse.vic.gov.au. buoyancy and when combined with cold air/ wind chill, wind, water and/or precipitation, Hides make drowning and hypothermia very real risks for duck hunters. Some restrictions apply to the erection of hides for duck hunting in Victoria. Hunters You should not wear waders or bulky may construct hides on State Game Reserves clothing in a boat in water greater than for use during the season, however, they must standing depth. not exceed a height of 2 metres. Hunters must

6 2009 Duck Season (continued) not cut down or remove any vegetation from a State Game Reserve for any other purpose. Powerboat Operator’s Licence Hunters must have a permit from Parks Victoria All recreational powerboat operators require a to erect a hide or to cut vegetation for a hide licence to operate a powered boat or personal in the Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park. Contact watercraft. Prior to applying for a boat operator’s Parks Victoria, Sale (03) 5144 3048 or Loch licence and/or personal watercraft endorsement, Sport (03) 5146 0278 for further details. The you will need to sit a computerised knowledge construction of hides for duck hunting are not test. This test ensures that all operators of permitted in the Discovery Bay Coastal Park, recreational boats have demonstrated at least Lake Albacutya Park or the Nooramunga Marine a basic knowledge of waterway rules and safe and Coastal Park. boat operation.

Responsible Boating To assist recreational boat operators to obtain a licence, Marine Safety Victoria has developed Many duck hunters use a boat or punt when a comprehensive handbook providing details hunting. Hunters using boats should be familiar of all relevant information required to pass the with the laws relating to their general use knowledge tests. The Victorian Recreational and their use in hunting (see below). Hunters Boating Safety Handbook is free of charge and should be aware of the minimum legal safety can be obtained from any VicRoads Registration requirements for their own safety and that of and Licensing Offi ce or from the Marine Safety others on the water. Victoria website www.marinesafety.vic.gov.au.

Boaters should remember the following For further information on legal, safe and important points: responsible boating or powerboat licences, contact Marine Safety Victoria on (03) 9655 • Check weather forecasts, fuel, safety 3399 or 1800 223 022 (freecall) or visit their equipment and other gear before a trip. website www.marinesafety.vic.gov.au. DSE • Ensure that there are suffi cient life-jackets has also developed an information sheet on or personal fl oatation devices (PFDs) for all the safe use of boats when duck hunting. Any occupants. hunter wishing to use any form of watercraft • Make sure that a working fi re extinguisher is for duck hunting is advised to obtain and read on board. this document before hunting. For a copy of • Do not overload the boat with equipment or the information sheet, please contact the DSE people. Customer Service Centre on 136 186 or your • Never mix alcohol consumption with local DSE offi ce. operating a boat or using a fi rearm.

22 Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 Hunters and Blue-Green Algae laboratory testing to determine the identity of a duck and also reduces the amount of time that Hunters must be particularly alert for the offi cers need to inspect hunters’ bags. Leaving presence of blue-green algae in any waterways the wing on a bird also assists the department where they hunt. Direct contact or consumption to collect harvest data during bag surveys or to of contaminated water could result in severe assist with other research. illness to humans and could kill your dogs. Contaminated waterways can be identifi ed by a What Hunters Need to Know About blue-green tinge to the water or a thick, smelly Avian Infl uenza blue-green scum on the water’s surface. Facts Boiling does not remove toxins from water Avian Infl uenza (AI), or “bird fl u”, is a contagious contaminated with blue-green algae. If you disease of animals caused by type a strains of suspect water to be contaminated with blue- Infl uenza. green algae, do not: Ai is found in wild aquatic birds, particularly • consume the water waterfowl (ducks, swans and geese) and is • come into direct contact with the water contagious among these species. There are two • use the water for washing dishes, fruit and forms of AI, low pathogenic (LPAI) and highly

vegetables pathogenic (HPAI). The low pathogenic form 6 2009 Duck Season (continued) • eat the offal (particularly liver) of any ducks does not normally cause death or clinical signs taken from contaminated water bodies of infection in wild birds, but as with all Infl uenza • wade unless you are wearing undamaged viruses it does have the ability to mutate into waders different strains, in this in this case HPAI and LPAI might mutate into HPAI, particularly when Please note, ducks that have visited or are taken introduced into domestic poultry fl ocks. from waters infected with blue-green algae, can be safely consumed provided they are well Current Strain of Highly Pathogenic Avian cleaned. However, toxins can accumulate in the Infl uenza in Asia internal organs and the offal must not be eaten The current outbreaks of HPAI in Asia have been or fed to dogs. Also, make sure to provide your caused by the strain known as HPAI H5N1, dogs with plenty of fresh drinking water so that which has been known to cause human deaths they do not drink contaminated water. in Asia and other countries via direct contact with infected birds. No defi nitive evidence of Important Regulations to Remember spread of the disease between humans has been found. Very close contact with infected Hunting from a boat poultry is required for human infection. On waterways (such as rivers, creeks, streams and channels), you are allowed to hunt duck The H5N1 strain has not been isolated in from a boat under power, up to a speed of Australia to date. In fact there has been no HPAI fi ve knots. On open waters (such as lakes or isolated in Australia over the past several years swamps), you are not permitted to hunt duck despite an increase in surveillance specifi cally from a motor boat, if the motor is running, looking for AI viruses in wild birds. whether in gear or not. Aircraft, boats or motor vehicles must not be used to pursue or herd Transmission game: this is illegal and unethical. Very close contact with an infected bird is required for human infection. The AI virus is Retaining a fully feathered wing highly concentrated in the nasal, eye and faecal To ensure that wildlife offi cers can quickly and discharges from an infected bird and can be accurately identify all waterfowl in a hunter’s transferred between birds by direct very close possession, all hunters must leave a fully contact with these secretions or by contact feathered wing on any harvested duck until with food and/or water supplies contaminated immediately prior to cooking or the duck has by the secretions. There have been no known been taken to the person’s ordinary place cases where Avian Infl uenza has been passed of residence. This requirement removes the from wild birds to humans. potential need for offi cers to seize ducks for

Victorian Hunting Guide 2009 23