VEAC’s new investigation areas: more proposals to lock out hunting?
Last year we explained how the left-leaning Victorian Environmental Assessment Council (VEAC) was pushing for the creation of the Great Forest National Park which could exclude hunting in a vast area covering north eastern areas such as Marysville, Kinglake and Mt Baw Baw.
Now they are proposing similar restrictions in areas in the state’s west, near Avoca and Woodend.
Here are the areas (click the image to see a larger version) :
More information on these proposals can be obtained from the VEAC website at:http://www.veac.vic.gov.au/investigation/central-west-investigation
VEAC’s terms of reference require it to make recommendations for the ‘balanced use’ and ‘appropriate management arrangements’ of the land.
As with the Great Forest National Park proposal, the material we’ve seen makes reference to a wide range of activities which would be permitted under the proposals, except for shooting. That’s why we need you to make a submission – to let them know why hunting in particular, needs to be included.
Submissions are due by COB Monday August 21st. Thanks to the Australian Country Party and one of our executive members for drawing this to our attention!
Make a submission
If you care about target shooting and hunting, click here to make your submission online, or drop them an email at veac@delwp.vic.gov.au
Here’s a suggested brief, but targeted email you can use:
“Dear VEAC
I refer to your Central West Investigation.
The purpose of the investigation includes making recommendations which ensure the balanced use and appropriate management arrangements. Hunting and target shooting provide a suitable balance for sustainable land use as well as pest management. These activities also provide significant economic benefits: the State Government has estimated hunting as contributing approximately $439m to the Victorian economy each year, making the true value of the shooting sports considerably higher.
In the circumstances, I believe the only way you can ensure the recommendations are properly informed is to recognise the economic, environmental social value of hunting and recommend that it be included in future land use.
I would also encourage you to seek the advice of Victoria’s key hunting organisations to ensure you have the latest and most up to date information
Yours sincerely
(etc)”
Remember – submissions are due by COB Monday 21st August, so please send your submission now to make sure you get heard!