22/10/2023

The controversial 'eradication' plan for wild deer in South Australia has escalated over the weekend.

Under the Landscape South Australia 2019 Act, the government has the power to conduct culling activities on a property without the landowner's permission.

The Limestone Coast Landscape Board has confirmed it has now chosen to utilise this power within the Act on a Wetlands and Wildlife property in the South East of South Australia.

Authorities also have the ability to fine landholders $25,000 for failure to comply with action orders and burden them with costs associated with programs undertaken by the board.

Perhaps tellingly, Limestone Coast Landscape Board general manager Steve Bourne was quoted in the Sunday Mail as saying the government's target "is eradication....if we are able to achieve that".

The futility of an eradication target is also supported by science and is a warning that this will likely be a waste of a significant taxpayer's money.

Mr Bourne was quoted in the article as saying, "hunting will have to take place where deer are treated as a game species, not a pest species". 

Whilst it's not entirely clear of the context of the quote, it does appear contradictory considering the inability to achieve "eradication".

States such as New South Wales, Tasmania, and Victoria have regulated recreational hunting on public land, the leading contributor to deer management and the total of wild deer harvested.

Whilst having a more mature approach to wild deer, these states also enjoy huge economic windfalls with thousands of jobs created, enabling its citizens to lead healthier lives as they utilise a pathway to nature that recreational deer hunting provides. All whilst not inhibiting the management of wild deer.