Central Highlands, TAS— Recreational hunters and motorists across Tasmania’s Central Highlands have earned praise this week for their responsible and law-abiding behaviour as the 2026 deer season got under way.
Over the opening weekend, Tasmania Police partnered with Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) compliance officers and Transport Tasmania in a large-scale traffic operation designed to promote safety on regional roads and support lawful hunting practices.
Senior Constable Jessica Weston highlighted the overwhelmingly positive outcomes of the operation, noting that“the vast majority of motorists and hunters were found to be operating within the law.”
More than 300 vehicles were stopped and checked as part of the coordinated effort, which included random breath tests, drug tests, vehicle safety and compliance inspections, and firearm checks. Remarkably, there were no drink or drug driving detections, a strong indicator that road users were taking safety seriously during the busy opening weekend.
“We commend those who were adhering to regulations and hunting responsibly,” Senior Constable Weston said, thanking the public for their cooperation.
While a small number of vehicle defect notices were issued and one speeding matter was recorded, officials stressed that these points of concern were far outweighed by the positive conduct of the community throughout the operation.
The successful weekend underscores the strong working relationship between enforcement agencies and the broader hunting community, with joint efforts continuing throughout the season to raise awareness of hunting regulations and firearms safety.
Hunters and members of the public are encouraged to continue observing all safety and legal requirements, and to report any concerns about non-compliance through established channels.
As deer season progresses, Tasmania’s responsible hunters and road users are demonstrating how recreational activities can be enjoyed while prioritising safety, respect for the environment, and community cooperation.
Do you want to get the last Australian Deer news, events, updates & competitions directly to your inbox?
Enter your name & email below and we'll make sure you're the first to know!
