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Hi all, I want to keep you updated with the latest events that have unfolded over the last few days regarding duck hunting, its future, its implications on deer, and what we are doing to assist other hunting organisations. Late on Friday, 24th of February, the 2023 season arrangements were announced. The seasonal arrangements deviated from the scientific recommendation made by Professor Marcel Klaassen in December. Before this announcement, no indication was given by the government that the scientific report would be disregarded. Following this, the Minister for Outdoor Recreation published a press release that announced a Select Committee to Examine Victoria’s Native Bird Hunting Arrangements. This unprecedented move will take shape during the next sitting week (March 7-8-9), when the government will move a motion in the Legislative Council to establish the committee, which will have wide-ranging terms of reference, including the operation of the annual recreational native bird hunting seasons, arrangements in other Australian jurisdictions, their environmental sustainability and impact on amenity, and their social and economic impact. Whilst the motives and the politics behind the decision to hold a select committee remain unknown, the ADA will continue to work directly with others to deliver as good an outcome as possible. We are in an ongoing exchange with the Sporting Shooters Association of Victoria as they prepare a comprehensive campaign in response to this committee; we have offered our assistance and access to local and international contacts and strategic advisors to help. We must collectively approach this issue whilst remaining cool, calm and collected. By working together strategically, we stand the best chance of delivering a positive result for native bird hunting in Victoria. The threat facing duck hunting reflects the broader issues facing legitimate outdoor recreational activities in Victoria and, more broadly, across Australia. The Australian Deer Association continues to work hard to achieve sustainable policy outcomes on behalf of our members and hunters. As the situation unfolds, I will keep you informed. Best regards, Sean Kilkenny |
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