Politics & Council
18 March, 2026
Shire says no evidence to back lake duck hunt ban move
LODDON Shire Council says it is not aware of evidence to justify using Commonwealth laws to ban duck shooting on Lake Boort.
In a submission to the application by Gary Murray, council said: his “claimed threats of injury or desecration do not adequately distinguish between impacts arising from duck hunting activities and those resulting from other factors.
“Council is yet to see evidence or data supporting assertions that damage and desecration are the direct result of duck hunting,” the shire wrote.
“Recreational duck hunting at Lake Boort operates within a tightly regulated framework designed to ensure sustainability and compliance. Hunting seasons, bag limits, species restrictions and designated hunting areas are set by the Game Management Authority and other relevant authorities to ensure that hunting activities do not threaten the conservation status of game species or the surrounding environment.
“Council asks that the Minister for Environment and Water consider that lawful, regulated duck hunting can coexist with cultural heritage protection and opposes the application.”
The shire said duck hunting was supported by residents and visitors to the shire.