Join us for the Victorian Hunter Education Course 2025
The Victorian Hunter Education Course 2025, a comprehensive residential weekend program set in the heart of sambar country at the stunning Forest Edge (Neerim East).
This course is a unique blend of theory and hands-on practical sessions, tailored for both new and experienced hunters. Over the weekend, you'll explore a wide range of topics, including:
An introduction to Australia’s deer species
Hunting and the law
Firearm safety and firearms for deer hunting
Animal welfare and responsible hunting practices
Deer tracking and stalking sambar
Carrying out and breaking down game
Navigation, meat care, caping, and trophy care
A full afternoon field trip into prime deer habitat
Deer management and the future of Australia’s wild deer and deer hunting
Last year’s esteemed presenters included Paul Boag, Peter Burke, Rob Fickling, Gavin Counsell, Emma Sears, and many more, making this course unmatched in quality and expertise.
As Australia’s longest-running and most respected deer hunter education program, this course sets the standard for hunter education across the Southern Hemisphere.
The course is fully inclusive – just bring yourself, your sleeping gear, and appropriate field clothing. We can also accommodate any special dietary requirements if requested in advance.
We hope to see you there for an unforgettable weekend of learning, growth, and camaraderie in the heart of the Victorian wilderness.
Watch the video below for highlights from our 2023 course.
Is the VIC Hunter Education Course for me?
Our Hunter Education Course is designed to evolve with the needs of both novice and experienced hunters. Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience under your belt, this course provides valuable insights for all. But don't just take our word for it—here’s what past participants had to say:
“Very well organised and incredibly informative. Even experienced hunters will gain new knowledge—you’re never too old to learn something new.”
“Definitely worth it! I’ve been hunting for almost 10 years and found the course incredibly valuable. Meeting and learning from such passionate people in one place was a great experience.”
“It was comfortable, informative, and a privilege to learn from so many fantastic people.”
“The sessions on deer sign tracking, caping, and butchery were particularly helpful. Everything was very well put together.”
“Worth every cent! You’ll learn a ton from passionate experts who, despite their varying opinions, share a deep love for deer and introducing others to the sport.”
“The practical sessions were exceptionally well organised, making for an enjoyable and educational weekend.”
Course Details
The course runs for 2.5 days, starting with arrivals and registrations at 6:00 pm on Friday, 2nd May 2025, and concluding at 2:00 pm on Sunday, 4th May 2025.
What's Included?
This is a fully residential and catered course—no camping required! Accommodation is in bunk room style, so all you need to bring is a pillow and sleeping bag (or similar).
And trust us—you won’t go hungry! The team at Forest Edge ensures everyone is well-fed and watered throughout the weekend. If you leave hungry on Sunday afternoon, you just didn’t try hard enough!
Note: Special dietary requirements can usually be catered for. Just fill out the dietary section when registering.
Accommodation Feedback
“No one expected 5-star, but it was neat, well-maintained, and, most importantly, clean.”
“Great place to stay—very comfortable.”
Food Feedback
“Meals were even better than expected.”
“The servings were unbelievably generous—I didn’t think I’d put on weight! Very friendly staff and well-organised.”
What NOT to bring
Please note: No firearms, ammunition, or bows are allowed.