General News
10 June, 2024
Duck season brought welcome influx of visitors
THE duck hunting season had again given Boort an economic boost, said veteran retailer George Tallis. Mr Tallis said the season, that ended yesterday, had brought people to the district and benefits to local shops. “Things certainly busy-up for us...
THE duck hunting season had again given Boort an economic boost, said veteran retailer George Tallis.
Mr Tallis said the season, that ended yesterday, had brought people to the district and benefits to local shops.
“Things certainly busy-up for us during the season but it is ridiculous that the season now starts mid-week and having half the lakes around here closed at different times of the season,” Mr Tallis said.
“We have a lot of customers who come in for extra camping gear or other provisions.”
But Mr Tallis said the vital influx of shooters had declined in his 50 years running the town’s hardware shop.
“I’ve owned this store since 1972 ... before that the cafe. I can remember convoys of shooters and I don’t see that like I used to,” he said.
“They (government) are destroying opportunities for small business in the country.
“I totally agree with regulations for safety but not some of the other changes.”
Lake Boort was closed to duck hunters just days before the season opened in April and re-opened for the last fortnight when the Game Management Authority said a colony of protected bats had left the lake. Some adjoining lakes remained open all season.
Mr Tallis said duck hunting season gave people a reason to visit Boort.
“We still get a lot of customers,” he said.
At last week’s Loddon Shire Council meeting, ward councillor Neil Beattie said the season had again been “good for Boort”.
Loddon Shire urged a State Government inquiry last year to retain duck shooting for its economic benefits to the region and community wellbeing.
While the inquiry recommended an end to duck shooting, the Government said future seasons would be allowed.
However, there will be changes, including:
Improving hunters’ knowledge and skill by making education and training for hunters mandatory.
Implementing the Waterfowl Wounding Reduction Action Plan, to reduce the risk of wounding.
Banning the use of lead shot for quail hunting.
Stricter compliance levels, including further penalties for hunters breaking the rules.
Greater recognition of Traditional Owners’ knowledge of hunting and land management.
The 2024 eight-week season officially finished 30 minutes after sunset yesterday.