The Game Management Authority (GMA) has announced the mid-season re-opening of three Victorian wetlands: Lake Boort, Clydebank Morass State Game Reserve and an area of Dowd Morass State Game Reserve will reopen to duck hunting from 8am on Monday, May 20, 2024.

This has not happened for many years and is a positive sign of the government’s acknowledgement of hunter compliance and of well-reasoned advocacy.

FGA is pleased with this outcome, but we want to address concerns about the seemingly biased timings.

The closure of Lake Lonsdale effective Saturday, May 18, while the reopening of three other wetlands does not come into effect until Monday, May 20, has rightfully raised questions within our community.

Under the Wildlife Act 1975, the Game Management Authority can shut down a wetland for hunting with just 24 hours' notice; yet, when it comes to reopening these areas, the Act mandates a cumbersome "three-days after publication" notice period. This bureaucratic delay means it takes significantly longer to grant access back to hunters than it does to restrict it. While this discrepancy in the Wildlife Act 1975 is frustrating, it is enshrined in the Act.

FGA agrees with the sentiment that this is another unfair burden on the hunting community, creating unnecessary delays and confusion. The current framework not only disrupts hunting plans but also undermines confidence in a balanced and reasonable approach to land and wildlife management; however, Field & Game Australia is encouraged by the Allan Labor Government's willingness to accept and enact these mid-season adjustments.

This proactive approach to wetland management, which includes reopening areas for hunting when conditions are suitable, hasn't been seen in several years. It demonstrates a balanced consideration of both conservation and recreational hunting interests. Labor’s recent budget allocations toward hunting reform also reflect a forward-thinking strategy that prioritizes both sustainability and the needs of the community.

While these developments are promising, we maintain a stance of cautious optimism.

The implementation of adaptive management practices indicates a positive direction, but ongoing engagement and advocacy from our community are essential to ensure these practices continue to evolve beneficially.

While fully understanding and sharing the frustration of our members around closures, FGA commends the GMA and the Victorian Government for their efforts in dynamic resource management.

We remain committed to working alongside these bodies to promote sustainable hunting and conservation practices.

FGA is working hard on building trusted relationships with the government and will keep working hard on behalf of all hunters.