game tracks 2011

ISSUE 16 - 2011

Game Tracks

Publication of the Wildlife Management Branch

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About Game Tracks

Published by

Wildlife Management BranchDepartment of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment GPO Box 44, Hobart, Tasmania, 7001(03) 6336 5196 (phone)(03) 6336 5311 (fax)

Advertising and Production

Stevens Publishing Pty LtdPO Box 7504Launceston 72500418 129949 or fax (03) 6331 1278

Publication and Distribution

Game Tracks is an annual publication with a print run of 12,000, which is provided free of charge to Tasmanian game licence holders, rural landowners and a number of other individuals and organisations.If you are not on the current interstate or international mailing list and wish to be added or if you have changed address, please notify the Wildlife Management Branch at the address or contact numbers listed above. Extra copies are available from the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment in Hobart or Launceston or Service Tasmania.

Purpose of Game Tracks

• To keep landowners, hunters and other stakeholders informed on issues relating to wildlife management and control in Tasmania.• To promote and facilitate ethical, responsible and humane hunting and harvesting practices that are consistent with State and Federal wildlife management and conservation programs.

Disclaimer

The material and information contained in Game Tracks is intended as a guide only. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of such material and information at the time of printing, the Department

of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE) does not guarantee this publication is without error. The Crown in right of the State of Tasmania disclaims any liability for any loss or damage which may arise from any reliance upon any material or information contained in this publication.Products advertised in Game Tracks are not necessarily endorsed by Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and the Environment or any other agency of the Crown. Readers rely upon material and information contained in such advertisements at their own risk.

Further Details Available

For further details on material contained in Game Tracks contact the relevant office of the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment. Copies of State legislation which relate to the hunting of wildlife may be obtained from the Printing Authority of Tasmania, 123 Collins Street, Hobart, 7001, or telephone (03) 6233 3289.

Editorial policy

The Wildlife Management Branch does not solicit contributions to Game Tracks. However, DPIPWE, in its absolute discretion, may accept or reject any contribution. All contributions must be consistent with the stated purposes of this publication. Information and ideas expressed in contributed articles are not necessarily endorsed by DPIPWE.

Slides, Photographs or Other Artwork

DPIPWE is always looking for quality photographs, slides or other artwork to use in this and other publications. If you have any of these items you are willing for us to use, please contact the Wildlife Management Branch. All contributions will be suitably acknowledged.

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Message from the Minister

As the new Minister for Environment, Parks and Heritage I am delighted to have the opportunity to welcome you to the latest edition of Game Tracks.Since taking on the responsibility of this portfolio I have been spending recent weeks meeting with various stakeholder and other community groups around the State to gain a detailed understanding of the various issues of concern and interest to many.As I’ve met with various groups and individuals around the place, I’ve been given a real insight into what our natural and cultural heritage means to different people.I have found it interesting to see that although our natural and cultural environment may hold value in a different way to all of us – all of us are united in our view to ensure that we manage it in a way that future generations can enjoy as well.I see that as the common theme in my ministerial role, to work with the various groups and interests in the community to identify the methods and measures we have and identify new ones that can ensure our native species can be managed in a sustainable way for future generations to enjoy as well.

I recognise the importance of recreational activities such as hunting to communities, I also recognise the significance of our rural communities and agricultural industries and the impacts some of our native wildlife can have on these areas. At the same time however I recognise the importance that our native wildlife and vegetation has as part of our rich natural heritage.Balancing all of these interests can be challenging at times, but again I am heartened by the common interests among all of these issues.To me partnerships between governments and the community remain the key to successfully ensuring we manage our natural environment sustainably.Already there are many examples of successful partnerships between hunters and landholders to sustainably manage the impacts of browsing animal damage and I see building on this program as integral as we develop viable alternatives to the use of other methods of control.Our Government as well wants to continue be a part of fostering and growing those relationships and partnerships as we identify a range of measures that landholders can utilise in managing their land.Information and communication are a key part of continuing to build these partnerships and publications such as these remain an important method of providing you with the latest information and regulations to ensure you can have a successful, sustainable and good hunting season. I wish you a safe hunting season

Brian WightmanMinister for Environment, Parks and Heritage.

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Contents

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About Game Tracks

Message from the Minister ....................................4

Contents ..........................................................................5

Hunting Season Schedule .......................................6

News and Views

WMB News ...................................................................9

TFGA Report ................................................................15

TDAC Report ...............................................................16

Deer Hunt - 10 Years On .......................................18

Updates

Game Species Update

Fallow Deer .............................................................19

Central Highland Deer Ballot ........................21

Wallaby .......................................................................28

Wild Duck ................................................................28

Avian Influenza Survey ......................................28

Short-tailed Shearwaters .................................30

Pheasants ...................................................................31

Information

Managing Browsing Wildlife ...................................32

Firearm Services Letter ...........................................35

Dog Control Act Information ..............................37

New Regulations .........................................................38

Offender File ..................................................................41

Contact List ....................................................................43

Features

Feral Cats on Tasman Island ..................................44

Protected Species Profile

Common Wombat ..............................................46

Health Status of Wallabies .....................................49

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Fallow Deer

Licence fee : $61.20Bag Limit: 1 adult male deer & 1 antlerless deer OR two antlerless deer.Spikies may not be taken.

Regulation Snapshot

• Only to be taken with a firearm. Minimum legal firearm calibre of not less than 6 mm and which is capable of delivering a projectile having kinetic energy of 1350 joules at a distance of 100 metres from the rifle. Suggested a calibre .243 or greater be used.

• Dogs and spotlights are not permitted for taking deer.

• The head of a deer must not be removed or the body severed, unless the hunter labels all the parts with their name, address, deer licence number and tag number.

• All deer taken must be immediately tagged by the hunter using the tag issued to that hunter. See photo series below demonstrating affixing a tag.

Hunting Season Schedule 2011

ROCKJAW TOURSFlinders Island

Hunting and Fishing ToursChris (Rockjaw) Rhodes

Mobile: 0427 596 506Phone/Fax : (03) 6359 6506

email: [email protected]: www.rockjawtours.com.au

Adult Male Deer

26 February – 27 March 2011

Antlerless Deer

12 March – 27 March 201114 May - 3 July 2011

Duck

5 March - 5 June 2011. Inclusive of King Island

Muttonbird

Non-Commercial2 April – 17 April 2011Commercial27 March – 30 April 2011

Wallaby

21 February 2011 - 20 February 2012, including King and Flinders Islands.

Brown Quail

30 April – 29 May 2011

Ringneck Pheasant

11 June - 12 June 2011

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• Adult male deer - fix and lock the tag to the antler between the brow tine and the trez tine.

• Antlerless deer - fix and lock the tag through the lower jaw.

Wild Duck

Licence fee: $27.20Bag Limit: 10 ducks per day.Legal Species:Only Black duck, Grey teal, Chestnut teal, Mountain duck and Wood duck may be taken. Other species may be encountered in Tasmania but may not be taken. These include Blue-winged shoveler, Hardhead (or White-eyed) duck, Musk duck, Freckled duck, Pink-eared duck, Blue-billed duck and Plumed tree duck.

Regulation Snapshot:

• Decoys, including feathered decoys, are permitted but the use of any bait, live birds, tape recorders or other electronic devices is prohibited.

• The use of boats propelled by an engine is prohibited for taking ducks.

• Aircraft are prohibited for rousing ducks.• Shooting duck between 1 hour after sunset

and 1 hour before sunrise is prohibited.• Ducks may only be taken with shotguns not

exceeding 12 gauge.• Hunters must retain either the head or the

wings on a harvested duck until the hunter has arrived at his normal place of residence, shack or camp.

• Hunters must produce their Waterfowl Identification Test (WIT) Certificate the first time they wish to obtain a licence. Thereafter, verification will occur via the game licence database. Applicants born in or before 1935 are exempt from this test.

Short-tailed Shearwater (Muttonbird)

Licence fee: $27.20 (non-commercial)Bag limit: 25 per day for colonies in King Island

Group, Hunter Group and Furneaux Group. A limit of 15 per day applies on Tasmanian mainland colonies.A ‘Non-commercial (Recreational) Muttonbird Season 2011 – Open Colonies’ schedule is available by phoning the Wildlife Management Branch on (03) 6233 6556.


• Night-birding is prohibited (“night” is between 1 hour after sunset and 1 hour before sunrise.

• Pointed, sharpened, barbed or hook shaped or sharpened implements are prohibited.

• Dogs may not be used.• Interfering with burrows during the closed

season or without a licence during the open season is prohibited.

• Licences are issued to one person only. The taking of muttonbirds under another person’s licence (including family member) is illegal.

• Chicks are to be killed quickly and humanely in accordance with the Animal Welfare Act 1993.

Bennett’s and rufous (Tasmanian Pademelon) Wallabies

Non-commercial Licence Fee: $27.20 (Fee applicable until 30 June 2011)Commercial Licence Fee: $54.40 (Fee applicable until 30 June 2011)Bag Limit: none for either wallaby species.Only a Commercial Licence authorises the sale of wallaby products.


• The use of snares and steel-jawed traps is prohibited.

• The use of spotlights and shooting from a vehicle is prohibited.

• Landowners can obtain crop protection permits that allow shooting from a vehicle with the aid of a spotlight.

Hunting Season Schedule 2011

8

Hunting Season Schedule 2011• Solid jacketed military ammunition is

prohibited.• Hunters must produce their Firearms

Licence to obtain a hunting licence unless they are exempt under the Firearms Act 1996 and the Wildlife (General) Regulations 2010.

The laws that govern hunting in Tasmania can be viewed at www.thelaw.tas.gov.au. Search for Wildlife (General) Regulations 2010.

Introduced pest animals that may be hunted

Rabbits

Rabbits are classified as vermin under the Vermin Control Act 2000 and may be hunted at any time on Crown Land, State Forest and on private land with the permission of the landowner. There is no bag limit and rabbits are normally taken with shotguns and rimfire rifles, although any non-prohibited firearm may be used.

Hares

Hares, while not classified as vermin, have no legal status and can be hunted under the same conditions that apply for rabbits.

Foxes

Foxes are classified as vermin under the Vermin Control Act 2000 and may be hunted at any time on Crown Land, State Forest and on private land with the permission of the landowner. The Fox Eradication Branch would appreciate any information on foxes sighted or shot in Tasmania. The 24hr fox sightings hotline number is 1300 369 688.

Feral domestic animals

Some domestic animals such as pigs and goats have become feral and programs have been implemented to reduce these wild populations. Hunters can assist in these programs by reporting any sightings of feral pigs and goats to DPIPWE officers.

• Landowners may issue copies of the permit to licensed hunters to assist in the control of wallaby.

Brown Quail

Licence Fee: $27.20Bag Limit: 20 per day.Legal Species:Only Brown quail may be taken. Other species such as Stubble Quail and Painted Quail are wholly protected and may not be taken.


• Quail may only be taken with shotguns, not exceeding 12 gauge.

Ringneck Pheasant

Licence Fee: $13.60Bag Limit: 3 male birds per day.To obtain a licence, hunters are encouraged to:• Become a member of the King Island Game

Bird Association; and• Obtain from the Association a Hunter

Authority Card giving permission to access land for hunting.


• The open season applies only to male birds on King Island.

• Pheasants may only be taken with shotguns not exceeding 12 gauge.

General Regulations

There are a number of regulations applicable to all species. Some important ones are listed below.• Hunting at night is prohibited. Night means

the period between 1 hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise.

• The use of baits, live decoys, traps, snares, spears, bows and arrows, explosives, poison, bird lime and chemical compounds is prohibited.

9

A planning toolkit with best practice measures for minimising browsing damage as well as a step-by-step guide to developing a property specific Wildlife Management Strategy has been developed. This toolkit will be available by the end of February 2011 and will be promoted at AGFEST 2011 (see detailed article on page 32).

Wildlife Trade Management Plans

The Commonwealth Government recently approved a Management Plan for the Commercial Harvest and Export of products of Brushtail possums developed by the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment to comply with a range of requirements including mechanisms to ensure that the harvesting is done in a manner that is both sustainable and humane.The Tasmanian Government has for some time supported the development of a possum product industry to assist landholders in controlling possum damage and reduce the use of 1080 poison. To reach its potential, this industry requires access to overseas markets which, in turn, requires a Commonwealth-approved Wildlife Trade Management Plan for this species.The approved plan requires brushtail possums to be harvested only by shooting in the field. It does not allow for possums to be live-trapped and transported to a processing work for slaughter.Approval of the plan allows for the development of skin, fur and meat trades in the expectation that this will allow products of possums taken to protect crops to be utilised.In recent times, over 300,000 brushtail possums have been culled each year for crop protection purposes, and with the approval of this plan, it is expected that products of some of these animals will be exported to overseas markets and not wasted. At the same time, it is hoped that approval of this plan will help primary producers to better manage damage to their crops and pastures by possums.

The primary role of the Wildlife Management Branch (WMB) is to facilitate the sustainable management of Tasmania’s wildlife, including game species, on public and private lands, to ensure their conservation, and to support the continued prosperity of the community and State’s industries.This year the WMB has continued working hard at achieving our key goals set in accordance with this role.The following are key aspects covered and results achieved:

Wildlife Monitoring Strategy

The WMB has continued to implement its strategy of ensuring that harvested wildlife is being adequately monitored to ensure a sustainable harvest into the future.As part of this strategy, the WMB during 2010 has focused on the monitoring and management of species which are subject to harvest whether for crop protection purposes or during game seasons. This has resulted in a review of current methods and strategies for monitoring a range of harvested species.In addition, a wide range of harvested species were monitored during 2010. These included wild duck, brown quail, King Island pheasant, fallow deer, wallabies and brushtail possums. The results of these monitoring programs will be used to ensure that harvesting is done at sustainable levels.

Alternatives to 1080 Program

The final stages of this Program, have been delayed. A summary report for consideration by the responsible Tasmanian and Commonwealth Ministers will be completed by the end of February 2011. This report will be accompanied by the independent reviewer’s report on the Program. A more detailed technical report, including a report on the outcomes of the Department’s Project Officer Program, will be completed by May 2011. This timetable will allow the release of a summary report in advance of the completed final report.

Wildlife Management Branch News

10

Wildlife Management Branch NewsWith the approval of a Trade Management Plan for the Brushtail possum, the WMB is aiming to develop a management plan for Bennett’s and rufous wallabies modeled on the possum plan. This will facilitate the export of wallaby products from mainland Tasmania as well as the Bass Strait islands. Stakeholders from the commercial wallaby industry, landholders, conservation organisations and the public will be consulted whilst putting this plan together.

Extension of Open Season on Brown Quail to Southern Tasmania

The Tasmanian Government has agreed to support extending the Open Season on Brown quail to include southern Tasmania for a trial period of 2 years. The trial extension is intended to allow an assessment of the status of Brown Quail in southern Tasmania and provide information suitable to guide future management.

Currently, the Open Season on Brown quail is held during May of each year, in northern Tasmania only. Southern Tasmania has been closed to quail hunting due to an apparent population decline following the 1967 bushfires.At present, surveys of quail numbers are done only on the islands of Bass Strait where most

hunting takes place and where quail numbers are known to be high and stable.The trial extension of the quail season to southern Tasmania, combined with the return of comprehensive information on sightings, take and hunting effort by licensed quail hunters will provide the information needed to sustainably manage quail hunting.All licensed quail hunters are encouraged to support this trial and supply the Wildlife Management Branch with details of their quail hunting activities. A questionnaire will be provided to quail hunters for this purpose.

Deer Distribution MapAs a part of the process of developing a Statement of Current Practices for Management of Tasmanian Wild Fallow Deer in Tasmania, the following deer distribution map was prepared. Feedback is welcome.

The Brown quail season has been extended to southern Tasmania for a two year trial.

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A Statement of Current Practices for Management of Tasmanian Wild Fallow Deer

The Department identified the need for all current management policies and practices regarding the management of wild fallow deer to be pulled together into one document. This was due mainly to the fact that the Department regularly has to deal with landowner and hunter interest in a complex operational environment and would benefit from a single fallow deer management practices document. A specific project was established to undertake this exercise and during the year much effort has been put into accurately capturing information with regards to the history of fallow deer in Tasmania, current management, the legislative status, current licensing arrangements, and key changes in fallow deer management over the past 40 years.In November, the Game Management Liaison Committee (GMLC) agreed to support the final Draft of the Department’s Statement of Current Practices for Management of Tasmanian Wild Fallow Deer. This is now the Department’s accepted current management document being used.

A Statement of Current Practices for Management of Hunted Wild Duck in Tasmania

The Department identified the need for all current management policies and practices regarding the management of hunted wild duck to be pulled together into one document. Early in 2010, a Draft Plan was release to the Game Management Liaison Committee and support was gained to work towards a similar process undertaken with fallow deer being the formation of a current Statement of Management Practice for Hunted Wild Duck in Tasmania. Significant

Membership inquiries to

National Membership Office,Australian Deer Association inc.P.O. Box 454 Croydon, Victoria 3136.

Phone: (03) 9870 1175 Fax: (03) 9870 1173Email: [email protected]: www.austdeer.com.au

“Conservation is a State of Harmony between Men and the Land” Aldo Leopold

• Meet with and learn from experienced deer hunters and conservationists

• “Australian Deer” magazine subscription included

• Educational meeings with guest speakers, including demonstrations• Members are covered by public liability and personal injury insurance

• All species of deer and all methods of deer hunting are represented

• Membership provides a genuine reason to hold a firearm licence

Join the Australian Deer Association today

New to deer hunting?Want to learn the ropes from experienced hunters?

The Association’s Hunter education programThe very best and most experienced deer hunters in Australia make their time available at our hunter education course held at Rawson and other courses so you can learn from their experience and be successful too.

The Association’s Deer Management ProgramThe Association facilitates a number of Deer Management Programs in conjunction with land managers, both private and public, to manage deer populations. Association members have the opportunity to play a very important part in these programs by getting involved in harvest operations using their hunting skills.

Photo: Errol Mason. www.sambardeer.com

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Post your Membership Application to: NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP OFFICE AUSTRALIAN DEER ASSOCIATION inc.PO BOX 454 CROYDON VIC 3136

TYPE OF MEMBERSHIP (Tick One) Ordinary - $80Junior (Under 18) - $40 Family (includes spouse and

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New to deer hunting?

12

Wildlife Management Branch NewsThe consultant’s report has been finalised and posted on the Department’s website. The report outlines four options for managing wildlife imports into Tasmania. The former Minister decided to progress option four, which recommends implementing a new system within the existing regulatory framework.The Department will implement the new arrangements within the next six months. The new arrangements will include lists of species that can be imported into Tasmania, species that can be imported provided a number of conditions are met, and species that cannot be imported into the State. The new arrangements will also include a process to assess species that are not included on any of the initial lists, to determine whether the species can be imported and the conditions, if any, that should apply.Until such time as the new arrangements have been developed and implemented, which is anticipated to be the end of April 2011, the current moratorium remains in place.

Save the Tasmanian Devil Program

The Save The Tasmanian Devil Program has undertaken a massive expansion of its holding facilities at Cressy with the addition of three new large pens that will accommodate mixed sex groups of varying ages as well as a further 16 pens designed for the management of individual devils and allow for breeding.

work has been undertaken on the collation and formation of this Statement with considerable input by a subcommittee of the GMLC, specifically tasked to do so. In late November, the finishing touches were being detailed in the current version of this Statement of Management Practice meaning that this document will be taken to the GMLC for support in 2011 before the commencement of the 2011 Wild Duck season.

Moratorium on the Importation of Controlled Wildlife

In the previous Game Tracks we notified you of the moratorium and notified you of a review to be conducted. These review arrangements for importing wildlife into Tasmania were conducted by the consultancy Eco Logical Australia. The project brief included consulting with key stakeholder groups to determine their current and emerging needs, identifying potential risks that need to be managed, and proposing options for managing those risks.

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The end result is a site that is worthy of the commitment being provided to the conservation of Tasmanian Devils.New Free Range Enclosures are also nearing completion in the North to add another dimension to our captive animal management skills.To reflect the growth of the Save The Tasmanian Devil Program, six new Part-Time field officers and one Senior Keeper have been employed to complement the existing staff and are based at the Mount Pleasant Laboratories, Launceston.The Northern Save The Tasmanian Devil Team welcome the opportunity to be a part of such an important conservation project and have an ongoing commitment to the preservation of Tasmania’s most iconic species, the Tasmanian Devil.

2011 Deer farming update

Farmed deer were included in the recent review of the Wildlife Regulations 1999. The finalisation of this review saw the implementation of a separate set of regulations defined as the Wildlife (Deer Farming) Regulations 2010.The new regulations introduce some positive changes for maintaining deer farming

standards in Tasmania. A new inclusion to the deer farming regulations is the provision for issuing infringement notices for offences under the regulations.As it currently stands, there are 168 registered deer farms in Tasmania. Only a very small number of these farms remain commercial operations, with the vast majority considered to be non-commercial or hobby farms.In July 2011, almost all of the current registered deer farms will be coming up for re-registration. This process will involve a large number of property inspections being undertaken by Game Management Unit staff, particularly to ensure that fencing standards have been maintained. In early 2011, all registered deer farmers will receive written information from DPIPWE on the 2011 re-registration process.Should anyone have any questions on deer farming in Tasmania, they are encouraged to contact Matt Byrne on 03 6233 6473 or 0429 408 103 or [email protected].

14


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Nuisance Birds

The Wildlife Management Branch is aware of widespread and increasingly serious problems caused by various birds to agricultural crops. Landholders are reminded that where birds causing damage are protected wildlife, a Crop Protection permit is required to be obtained from the Wildlife Management Branch in order for these birds to be destroyed. The permit will specify the method of control to be used and in the case of shooting, the number of birds allowed to be taken.Birds often reported as damaging crops include; Sulphur-crested cockatoo (see photo), Galah, Native hen, Wood duck, Mountain duck, Black duck and Black swan. Crop protection permits are available to landholders to deal with legitimate crop protection concerns relating to these birds.In the case of the Wood duck, Mountain duck and Black duck, landholders are reminded that these birds may be taken during the open season from early March to early June by

hunters who hold a duck licence. Landholders are therefore encouraged to allow licensed hunters on to their property during the open season to assist in dealing with any crop damage caused by these ducks. Landholders should note that Corellas, Forest ravens, Starlings and Skylarks are not forms of protected wildlife and therefore do not require a permit for their destruction.

15

Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association Report

Tasmania Branches:Dorset (03) 6391 8521 Furneaux (03) 6359 3557Huon (03) 6297 1962 South East (03) 6249 3830

As I write this, Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association (TFGA) is still waiting for the final report of the 3 year $4 million program Alternatives to 1080 program. This report was handed to the government on 30 June but

has yet to be released. The government must recognise to the seriousness of the problem of wildlife browsing and management not only on private land, but also on public land and vast areas of plantations in this state. Farmers need to have a full suite of tools available to assist in management of these damaging impacts. Release of this report is just the first step in this process – we will also be looking to government to fund whatever recommendations come from the research.Commercial harvesting of kangaroos and possums under strict management control is one viable alternative for management of browsing. This is potentially an untapped industry in which we utilise products that we have in the past simply culled. We see and wear the wonderful wool/possum products that New Zealand exports to the world – and there should be no reason we can’t replicate that success here. I am encouraged by the continuing commitment of our hunting groups, who play a huge role in managing the impact of browsing pests on farms in this state. A co-operative joint working approach between the TFGA, the Government and hunting groups is essential. The TFGA recently supported the Tasmanian Field and Game Association in their request to the Local Government Association for hunting dogs to receive discounted registration fees in the same manner as working dogs. This would provide encouragement to hunters in their

activities in managing browsing pests on farms. We’re seeing a resurgence of the perennial problems caused in cropping areas across the state by pest bird species. Cockatoos, wood and mountain ducks, and skylarks are all decimating crops and hence farmers’ incomes. In some circumstances, farmers can certainly apply for crop protection permits to assist in management of these pests which may somewhat help the problem. However, we believe it is time for a rigorous government review to quantify the damage these nuisance birds incur and effective management strategies to minimise these impacts. Most importantly, there needs to be a commitment by government to ensure resources are put in place to manage this increasing problem. Finally, credit where credit is due. TFGA thanks the state government for their continuing commitment to the Fox Eradication Program and Save the Devil Program. I would encourage all farmers to assist in these activities when and where possible. David Gatenby - President TFGA

16

Tasmanian Deer Advisory Committee Report

Members of the TDAC continue to work hard,

ensuring that there exists an effective voice for recreational

hunting and hunters in Tasmania. This past year has seen some very positive results

for promoting recreational deer hunting in Tasmania with newspaper publications and television programs picking up topics focussing on deer management here in Tasmania. The Tasmanian Deer Advisory Committee would like to commend the progress made by the Department in the past year in relation to the drafting of the Statement of Management Practices for Fallow Deer in Tasmania. The Department also completed the process of review for the Wildlife Regulations in late December 2010. Importantly in this review was the decision to retain wild Fallow deer as partly protected wildlife, an indicator that deer

Tasmanian Deer Advisory

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11 Samclay Crt, Perth Tas 7300Enquiries: 0419 336 213Email: [email protected]

management and Property-based Wildlife Management have a future here in Tasmania.The past year has seen a significant change in weather patterns delivering ample rainfall. Hunters are keen and encouraged by what promises to be a great season for 2011. Feedback from several districts has identified that the densities of game species are at all time low levels. Some properties have self imposed harvest restraints to ensure game management remains sustainable for future generations.

Proposed Changes to Fallow deer seasons

In late 2009, the TDAC submitted a proposal to the Game Management Liaison Committee for consideration. This submission prompted a lot of debate amongst deer hunters, landowners and Departmental staff. Of the four points proposed we were successful in extending the second antlerless season by an additional two weeks.

Data Collection

Last year the TDAC promoted the Statewide data collection program for harvested Fallow deer by offering a prize draw. Congratulations to the following winners drawn at the October meeting. • 1st prize – Mr. Glen Spaulding $500• 2nd prize – Mr. Paul Medhurst $300• 3rd prize – Mr. Grahame Jarvis $200 Thank you to all those hunters who continue to regularly provide biological data to the Game Management Unit.

Hunter Surveys

For the past two game seasons the TDAC have distributed and promoted a hunter survey. In total 303 hunter surveys were returned. This rate of return is representative of about 7% of licensed deer hunters. Some of the collated results are listed below:• The average deer hunter in Tasmania is a

47 year old male who has enjoyed hunting deer for approximately 23 years.

Tasmanian Deer Advisory Committee Report

17

Tasmanian Deer Advisory Committee Report • He classifies himself as a trophy hunter first

followed by a meat hunter second. • He hunts predominately on private land

and spends on average 13 days per year hunting at a cost no greater than $2,500 a year.

• Has the deer density increased or decreased on the property where you hunt?

Yes 71% No 23% (Increased 16% Decreased 55%)• Has the quality of deer increased or

decreased on the property where you hunt?

Yes 60% No 31% (Increased 21% Decreased 39%)• Quality Ratings (Poor – 3) = (23%) (Mid Range 4 – 7) = (43%) (Very Good 8+) = (25%)

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• 84% of deer hunters are willing to assist landowners in controlling browsing wallaby and possum species. On average respondents were willing to devote 33 nights a year to shoot 276 wallabies and 183 possums a year. That equates to 890,000 wallabies and 592,371 possums when multiplied by the number of deer game licenses purchased in 2010.

Congratulations to the following people who were the successful winners of the hunter survey prizes also drawn at our October meeting.• Tom Henley $200• Michael Wood $200• Rodney Howell $200• G. Barrett $200• Glen Craig $200Thank you for your feedback and for taking the time and effort to have your say.Enjoy your 2011 Season.Matthew Allen - TDAC President

18

Management Unit. This was the foundation of the Central Highlands Hunting Association that plays a big part in the annual season today not only in the highlands but across the State. In the first year, 86 male deer were presented for quality scoring, ageing and weighing. For most hunters this was a new process and some doubts were held with the accuracy and the validity of these techniques. The season culminated in a very successful dinner held at the Bothwell Town Hall which exceeded all expectations and resulted in a need to move the venue to the Bothwell school gymnasium where it is held today. The annual dinner is the highlight of the year with over 350 people attending. It is now sponsored by the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia and has a number of guests including politicians, local identities and agents for hunting equipment. Data collection remains the main objective of the association and support continues to grow with deer not only from the Bothwell district but throughout Tasmania. Hunters are encouraged to enter their deer through the prize structure whereby any entry may win the major trophy for the year. Approximately 180 male deer are presented for entry and data collection with many local hunters now having the skill to score the deer and record the data. The top 20 quality scored deer are selected and the antlers are then Douglas scored to determine the best deer for the year.The unique feature of the association is that it represents a group of non-aligned hunters who previously had no involvement in management of deer and now have a significant input because of the volume of data that is produced. Due to the success of the association, many local organisations, including the school parents and friends, fire brigade and lions club have all been the beneficiaries of money raised at the annual dinner.

Deer Hunt - Ten Years on

Deer Hunt – Ten Years OnCentral Highlands Hunting Association

The Central Highlands has always been an important area for hunting in Tasmania but prior to the year 2000 there was formally no information on what was harvested and how many people were active throughout the season. It was through the curiosity created by this that four local Bothwell hunters Geoff Herbert, Steve Housego, David Walker and Rayner Walter decided to form a committee with the aim of capturing this information. Through this committee they set goals to lift the profile and value of hunters in the community and to encourage the deer season to be a recreational time for the whole family and to encourage others. Goals were also set to foster sustainability and accountability for all hunters and this was encouraged by the wildlife enforcement officers and by the work previously done in the State by American wildlife biologist Brian Murphy and carried on by Graham Hall and the staff from the Game

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19

Brown Quail Wallaby Deer Mutton Bird Pheasant Wild Duck

2006 195 5840 3599 1058 122 916

2007 192 6499 3969 1158 112 975

2008 185 6534 3849 1000 147 970

2009 196 6608 4088 1126 124 893

2010* 185 6798 4151 1087 110 960

2010 Game Licence sales figures. *Wallaby licence numbers not finalised.

Fallow Deer - Season Summary

All reports leading into the 2011 male and female fallow deer seasons are pointing to a very encouraging and much anticipated season. Plenty of rain and low stocking rates has resulted in run country being revitalised. Wildlife species are more than likely going to remain in the bush with no need to travel to improved pastures and crops for subsidence.

Since 2006, recreational deer hunters have been experiencing a decline in success in taking a Fallow buck. The current trend shows a decline by approximately 370 bucks Statewide, or alternatively a 22% reduction. See Graph 1. Adding support to this trend, numerous hunters in the Cressy, Bothwell, Ross, Nile and Campbell Town districts have been reporting low densities and even in

some instances no deer presence altogether on some properties.In last year’s Game Tracks we provided a summary of Fallow deer Crop Protection Permits issued during the past four year period. In keeping with this format the updated figures for 2009 and 2010 show that since 2008, there has been a significant decline in the issuing of Crop Protection Permits for deer. See Graph 2. This decline supports the Departmental monitoring program for Fallow deer which has indicated an overall lowering of deer densities during the drought that has been maintained to date.

Graph 1. Fallow Deer Game Licence Reported Takes 2006 ‐2010.

In last year’s Game Tracks we provided a summary of Fallow deer Crop Protection Permits issued during the past four year period. In keeping with this format the updated figures for 2009 and 2010 show that since 2008, there has been a significant decline in the issuing of Crop Protection Permits for deer. See graph 2. This decline supports the Departmental monitoring program for Fallow deer which has indicated an overall lowering of deer densities during the drought that has been maintained to date.

Graph 2. 2006 – 2010 Crop Protection Permits Issued per calendar year.

Despite the overall take figures being down for bucks, 2010 has shown a significant recovery in the Quality Score ranking with over 35% of all bucks taken being 200+ and over. See graph 3. This recovery prompted the questions, why and how? Was it to do with hunters showing restraint on

Graph 1. Fallow Deer Game Licence Reported Takes 2006 -2010.





Fallow Deer Game Licence Reported Take






Crop Protection Permits Issued

Game Species Update

20

Despite the overall take figures being down for bucks, 2010 has shown a significant recovery in the Quality Score ranking with over 35% of all bucks taken being 200+ and over. See Graph 3. This recovery prompted the questions, why and how? Was it to do with hunters showing restraint on harvesting young bucks (2.5 & 3.5 year olds)? Did prevailing weather conditions allow more food to be available? Are lower deer densities meaning more food resources are available?

harvesting young bucks (2.5 & 3.5 year olds?) Did prevailing weather conditions allow more food to be available? Are the lower deer densities meaning more food resources are available?

A quick review of data provided to the GMU over the past 16 years has shown the following trends. Refer to Table 1 and Graph 3 below. Beginning in 1994 (the start of promoting Quality Deer Management (QDM)) up until 1997 the majority of harvest pressure was directed toward first and second heads, 2.5 and 3.5 year old animals respectively. These younger animals represent 75 % of the Statewide harvest during this four year period. Put another way, only 25% of the male deer harvested were mature.

Forward on to the next four year block from 1998 – 2001 and the pressure on harvesting young bucks had fallen Statewide to 70% and the Quality Score rating of animals over 200+ averaged 23%. Could this 5% reduction in the harvest of younger animals be the key driver for the recorded improvement to the Quality Score rating for this period? We believe so.

Since 2001 the QDM harvest results for Fallow bucks in Tasmania has somewhat plateaued. Considering the effort and time devoted to the promotion of Quality Deer Management principles in Tasmania and in particular, the restraint in harvesting young males. It still remains that 66% of the statewide harvest consists of younger males. In 16 years the drop in the percentage of first and second head animals has decreased by 9%.

Age Class 1994‐1997

1998‐2001

2002‐2005

2006‐2010

2.5 ‐ 3.5 75% 70% 67% 66%4.5 ‐ 5.5 ‐ 6.5 24% 29% 32% 32%7.5+ 1% 1% 2% 2%Table 1

Graph 3. Quality Score reported to GMU 1994 ‐2010.

A quick review of data provided to the GMU over the past 16 years has shown the following trends. Refer to Table 1 and Graph 3. Beginning in 1994 (the start of promoting Quality Deer Management (QDM)) up until 1997 the majority of harvest pressure was directed toward first and second heads, 2.5 and 3.5 year old animals respectively. These younger animals represent 75% of the Statewide harvest during this four year period. Put another way, only 25% of the male deer

harvested were mature. Forward on to the next four year block from 1998 – 2001 and the pressure on harvesting young bucks had fallen Statewide to 70% and the Quality Score rating of animals over 200+ averaged 23%. Could this 5% reduction in the harvest of younger animals be the key driver for the recorded improvement to the Quality Score rating

for this period? We believe so. Since 2001 the QDM harvest results for Fallow bucks in Tasmania has somewhat plateaued. Considering the effort and time devoted to the promotion of Quality Deer Management principles in Tasmania and in particular, the restraint in harvesting young males. It still remains that 66% of the statewide harvest consists of younger males. In 16 years the drop in the percentage of first and second head animals harvested has decreased by 9%. There is no doubt that the quality of animals within the younger age classes has improved since the introduction of QDM into this State and the TDAC survey results indicated that 25% of respondents rated the deer on the

Age Class 1994-1997 1998-2001 2002-2005 2006-2010

2.5 - 3.5 75% 70% 67% 66%

4.5 - 5.5 - 6.5 24% 29% 32% 32%

7.5+ 1% 1% 2% 2%

Quality Score 1994 - 2010

Graph 3. Quality Score reported to GMU 1994 -2010.

Table 1. Known male deer harvest by age class.

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Game Species Update

21

Game Species Update

There is no doubt that the quality of animals within the younger age classes has improved since the introduction of QDM into this State and, the TDAC survey results indicated that 25% of respondents rated the deer on the properties where they hunt as very good. So does this mean recreational deer hunters are experiencing as good as it gets in Tassie? The GMU don’t think so and the reason is simple. The average Quality Score of mature animals (4.5 years and older) is greater than younger animals. Coupled with the TDAC hunter survey suggestion that the average deer hunter in Tasmania classifies themselves as a trophy hunter first followed by a meat hunter second. The result is a 2011 season that is just as much an opportunity as it is a challenge. For the period 2011‐2014, just consider for a moment what you would like the figures to be. What if a 26% decrease in the number of younger bucks harvested over the next four years (See Table 4) equated to OVER HALF OF THE BUCKS HARVESTED IN THE STATE HAVING A QUALITY SCORE OF 200+ (See Graph 4). It really is food for thought.

Age Class 2011‐2014 2.5 ‐ 3.5 40% 4.5 ‐ 5.5 ‐ 6.5 56% 7.5+ 4% Table 2

Graph 4. GOAL = LET THEM GO, LET THEM GROW. IT COMES DOWN TO YOU.

Ballot Central Highland

This will mark the fifth year that The Parks and Wildlife Service authorises hunting of deer on three Conservation Areas in the Central Highlands for the upcoming Fallow deer season. Together the Parks and Wildlife Service and Wildlife Management Branch have worked to secure this land to be utilised by recreational hunters during the deer season.

properties where they hunt as very good. So does this mean recreational deer hunters are experiencing as good as it gets in Tassie? The GMU don’t think so and the reason is simple. The average Quality Score of mature animals (4.5 years and older) is greater than younger animals. Coupled with the TDAC hunter survey suggestion that the average deer hunter in Tasmania classifies themselves as a trophy hunter first followed by a meat hunter second. The result is a 2011 season that is just as much an opportunity as it is a challenge. For the period 2011-2014, just consider for a moment what you would like the figures to be. What if a 26% decrease in the number of younger bucks harvested over the next four years (See Table 2) equated to OVER HALF OF THE BUCKS HARVESTED IN THE STATE HAVING A QUALITY SCORE OF 200+ (See Graph 4). It really is food for thought.

Central Highlands Deer Ballot

This will mark the fifth year that the Parks and Wildlife Service authorises hunting of deer on three Conservation Areas in the Central Highlands for the upcoming Fallow deer season. Together the Parks and Wildlife Service and Wildlife Management Branch have worked to secure this land to be utilised by recreational hunters during the deer season. In late 2008, the Parks and Wildlife Service wished to pass along the responsibilities associated with the management of this ballot initiative to the Wildlife Management Branch as this type of work is not consistent with the core aims and objectives of reserved land management. The most logical home for the organising and coordinating of this ballot was deemed to be within the Wildlife Management Branch’s, Game Management Unit. Working cooperatively, staff from both agencies have liased to ensure this important initiativeFor the past two years feedback from participating hunters is that deer are observed within all three areas. The most successful area appears to be the Great Western Tiers Conservation Area. Reported densities vary from year to year on each of the areas.

Age Class 2011-2014

2.5 - 3.5 40%

4.5 - 5.5 - 6.5 56%

7.5+ 4%

Table 2. Projected male deer harvest by age class.

GOAL = LET THEM GO, LET THEM GROW. IT COMES DOWN TO YOU.

Projected Quality Score 2011 - 2014

There is no doubt that the quality of animals within the younger age classes has improved since the introduction of QDM into this State and, the TDAC survey results indicated that 25% of respondents rated the deer on the properties where they hunt as very good. So does this mean recreational deer hunters are experiencing as good as it gets in Tassie? The GMU don’t think so and the reason is simple. The average Quality Score of mature animals (4.5 years and older) is greater than younger animals. Coupled with the TDAC hunter survey suggestion that the average deer hunter in Tasmania classifies themselves as a trophy hunter first followed by a meat hunter second. The result is a 2011 season that is just as much an opportunity as it is a challenge. For the period 2011‐2014, just consider for a moment what you would like the figures to be. What if a 26% decrease in the number of younger bucks harvested over the next four years (See Table 4) equated to OVER HALF OF THE BUCKS HARVESTED IN THE STATE HAVING A QUALITY SCORE OF 200+ (See Graph 4). It really is food for thought.

Age Class 2011‐2014 2.5 ‐ 3.5 40% 4.5 ‐ 5.5 ‐ 6.5 56% 7.5+ 4% Table 2

Graph 4. GOAL = LET THEM GO, LET THEM GROW. IT COMES DOWN TO YOU.

Ballot Central Highland

This will mark the fifth year that The Parks and Wildlife Service authorises hunting of deer on three Conservation Areas in the Central Highlands for the upcoming Fallow deer season. Together the Parks and Wildlife Service and Wildlife Management Branch have worked to secure this land to be utilised by recreational hunters during the deer season.

Graph 4. Projected

quality score 2011-2014

22

What and where are the Conservation Areas?

• Top Marshes Conservation Area (South of Little Pine Lagoon access via Monpeelyata Road)This block of land is south of Little Pine Lagoon and is most easily accessed via

In late 2008, The Parks and Wildlife Service wished to pass along the responsibilities associated with the management of this ballot initiative to the Wildlife Management Branch as this type of work is not consistent with the core aims and objectives of reserved land management. The most logical home for the organising and coordinating of this ballot was deemed to be within the Wildlife Management Branches, Game Management Unit. Working cooperatively, staff from both agencies have liased to ensure this important initiative Managing the ballot system for the past two years, the feedback from the hunters is that deer are observed on all three areas with the most success to this stage leaning toward the Great Western Tiers Conservation Area. Reported densities vary from year to year on each of the areas. What and where are the areas of Conservation Areas?

• Top Marshes Conservation Area (South of Little Pine Lagoon access via Monpeelyata Road) This block of land is south of Little Pine Lagoon and is most easily accessed via Monpeelyata Road. You will observe appropriate signage along the road to let you know where the block of land starts. This block in total is approximately 2,370 hectares and is limited to a maximum of 3 hunter parties or 12 recreational hunters during a weekend or weekday ballot term.

• Great Western Tiers Conservation Area ( north of Lake Sorell access via Tunbridge Tier Road) This block of land is located north of Lake Sorell and is most easily accessed via Tunbridge Tier Road. You will observe appropriate signage along the Forestry Road indicating where this land boundary begins. This block in total is approximately 22, 492 hectares and is limited to a maximum of 4 hunter parties or 16 recreational hunters during a weekend or weekday ballot term.

Monpeelyata Road. You will observe appropriate signage along the road to let you know where the block of land starts. This block in total is approximately 2,370 hectares and is limited to a maximum of 3 hunter parties or 12 recreational hunters during a weekend or weekday ballot term.

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Game Species Update

23

Game Species Update

• Great Western Tiers Conservation Area (north of Lake Sorell access via Tunbridge Tier Road).This block of land is located north of Lake Sorell and is most easily accessed via Tunbridge Tier Road. You will observe

• Five Mile Pinnacles Conservation Area (South of Shannon Lagoon access via Barren Plains Road) This block of land is located just south of Shannon Lagoon and the easiest access is via Barren Plains Road. This block is approximately 483 hectares and is limited of one hunting party or four recreational hunters during a weekend or weekday ballot term.

appropriate signage along the Forestry Road indicating where this land boundary begins. This block in total is approximately 22, 492 hectares and is limited to a maximum of 4 hunter parties or 16 recreational hunters during a weekend or weekday ballot term.

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• Five Mile Pinnacles Conservation Area (South of Shannon Lagoon access via Barren Plains Road)This block of land is located just south of Shannon Lagoon and the easiest access is via Barren Plains Road. This block is approximately 483 hectares and is limited to one hunting party or four recreational hunters during a weekend or weekday ballot term.

To whom is this ballot open?Ideally, these three areas of land are for recreational hunters who have not secured access to other areas of private or state land.

How does the ballot operate?

In late January and early February interested recreational hunters make contact with the ballot coordinator to put forward an expression of interest on behalf of their hunting party (maximum allowed for these areas 4 hunters per party). One hunter is responsible to operate as a representative on behalf of his hunting party and to register the interests of their hunting group/party. Entry into the ballot will not occur until all requested information is provided.

Whom is this ballot open to? Ideally, these three areas of land are for recreational hunters whom have not secured access to other areas of private or state land. How does the ballot operate? In late January and early February interested recreational hunters make contact with the ballot coordinator to put forward an expression of interest on behalf of their hunting party (maximum allowed for these areas 4 hunters per party). One hunter is responsible to operate as a representative on behalf of his hunting party who registers the interests of their hunting group / party. Once you provided all appropriate information you will have secured your party to be entered into the ballot. When does the ballot close? Close of business on the 16th February 2011. How and when is the ballot drawn? The ballot will be drawn mid morning on the 17th February, 2011, Prospect Government Offices. Whom do I contact? David Leguis, Game Management Unit 03 6336 5342, 0428 535 258 What information will I need to provide? On behalf of you hunting party / group you will be responsible to provide the following details for all hunters in your party.

1. Do you have a preference for a specific Conservation Area? a. Great Western Tiers b. Top Marshes c. Five Mile d. Any available

When does the ballot close?

Close of business on the 16th February 2011.

How and when is the ballot drawn?

The ballot will be drawn mid morning on the 17th February, 2011, Mt Pleasant Government Offices.

Who do I contact?The ballot coordinator is: David Leguis, Game Management Unit 03 6336 5342 or 0428 535 258.

What information is needed?

The hunting party will need to provide the following details.

1. Do you have a preference for a specific Conservation Area?

a. Great Western Tiers b. Top Marshes c. Five Mile d. Any available*If you nominate a preference for a specific Conservation Area you will not be entered into the draws for the other Conservation Area ballot draws.

Game Species Update

25

Game Species Update2. What time during the week will your party be able to hunt?

a. Weekend 3 day block (Friday – Sunday), except opening weekend which is Saturday – Sunday.

b. Weekday 3 day block (Tuesday – Thursday).

c. Any.

3. Full names 4. Postal addresses5. Contact phone numbers (home and mobile preferable) 6. Vehicle make and registration numbers. 7. If you nominate to be drawn for 5 Mile Pinnacles

You will also need to provide the following information to obtain an appropriate permit to carry a firearm across Hydro Tasmania land:Firearm make, model, calibre and the serial number.

When will I find out if I have secured access?

If successful the ballot coordinator will contact the hunter party representative via telephone either directly after the ballot is complete or early the following week (17th-23rd February). The ballot coordinator will process all appropriate permits and distribute maps and documentation prior to the season commencing.

Special ThanksThe vision, effort and time invested in planning, coordinating and organising this ballot initiative on these three conservation areas deserves recognition and praise. On behalf of all the recreational hunters, past and future who which have used the ballot and will continue into the future, a very special thanks goes to Mike Cousins and Helen Burt. Their commitment and dedication to securing this ballot system has been appreciated.

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Wallaby

Over the past five years, the Department has seen a significant increase in the purchase of wallaby game licences. Currently no take information is required for those who purchase a wallaby game licence. Property specific take figures from crop protection permits are sought instead and already incorporate some of this data. During 2010, in excess of 1500 property specific Crop Protection Permits for both wallaby species were issued.

Wild Duck

The 960 game licences sold for wild duck in 2010 resulted in the reported harvest of 38,858 wild duck by species to date (see Table 1). The percentage of each species taken for the 2010 season showed a similar trend for the 2009 season (see graph 4 & 5 below).

Black Duck

Chestnut Teal

Grey Teal

Mountain Duck

Wood Duck

2010 16153 7180 3431 4400 7694

In late 2010, Game Management Staff responded to the request for a Waterfowl Identification Training and Test to be run on King Island. This was seen as a priority by our Department as there were numerous hunters on the Island who had been waiting a considerable amount of time for the opportunity and we thank them for their patience. For future Waterfowl Identification Training and Testing on either Flinders or King Island, hunters should contact their local Parks and Wildlife Office.

Avian Influenza survey – the duck’s guts.

The DPIPWE Animal Health Laboratory needs to take samples from the guts and throat of wild ducks this duck season to check for Influenza viruses as part of a national program that helps prevent outbreaks of Avian Influenza. Some strains of Avian Influenza can kill large numbers of wild birds, poultry, and sometimes humans as well.

Wild Duck

The 960 game licences sold for wild duck in 2010 resulted in the reported harvest of 38,858 wild duck by species (see Table 1). The percentage of each species taken for the 2010 season showed a similar trend for the 2009 season (see graph 4 & 5 below).

Black Duck Chestnut Teal

Grey Teal

Mountain Duck

Wood Duck

2010* 16153 7180 3431 4400 7694Table 1. Game licence reported take figures for 2010.

Graph 4. Wild duck percentage breakdown


In late 2010, Game Management Staff responded to the request for a Waterfowl Identification Training and Test to be run on King Island. This was seen as a priority by our

Wild Duck



Grey Teal

Mountain Duck

Wood Duck





2010 Game Licence Reported Take 2009 Game Licence Reported Take

Wild Duck



Grey Teal

Mountain Duck

Wood Duck





Wild Duck



Grey Teal

Mountain Duck

Wood Duck





Graph 4. Wild duck percentage breakdown.

Graph 5. Wild duck percentage breakdown.

Table 1. Game licence reported take figures for 2010.

Game Species Update

29

Game Species UpdateWhat we need: Please gather the guts, wing and head of the duck in a single plastic bag. Label with the date and what area the duck was shot in. Keep as cool as practical - in an esky with ice bricks would be ideal, but just in the shade, covered with wet cloth is OK for up to 48 hours depending on weather conditions. Ring Bruce Jackson on 0407 872 520 at any time to arrange collection from anywhere in the State. Also ring if you would like plastic bags and labelling pens.Hunters are reminded of the need to be back at their camp, shack or residence prior to removing the head and wings of birds. Therefore hunters who are unable to get back to camp etc, may be unable to assist Bruce in this research.

Wild bird deathsAnother important part of our Avian Influenza prevention program is to investigate deaths in wild birds. If you see any more than one or two dead wild birds of any species – including feral species such as sparrows or blackbirds – and they are still reasonably fresh, please don’t handle the bodies but just call Bruce Jackson on 0407 872 520 at any time so that an investigation can be carried out.

Avian Influenza - Precautions Some strains of Avian Influenza can infect humans. No dangerous strains have been detected in Australia over the last 5 years, but wearing disposable gloves, especially while cleaning birds, and washing with soap and water afterwards can reduce any risk. Wearing a mask is also a good precaution.

Change of bag limit for Mountain ducks

This year the bag limit for Mountain duck will be 10 birds a day, consistent with other wild duck limits.

State of Management Practices

As detailed previously the Department has worked consistently in this past year at drafting a Statement of Management Practice for Wild Duck in Tasmania. This Statement of Management Practice (STOMP) is to be released to the Game Management Liaison Committee before the 2011 season. The aim of this document is to collate current monitoring practices, detail current management practices, highlight legislative classification of wild duck species and summarise known biological information.

Identifying age, sex and moult in Victorian Game Waterfowl

The Department of Sustainability and Environment in Victoria published a field guide in February 2010 titled Identifying age, sex and moult in Victorian Game Waterfowl. This field guide aims to equip waterfowl hunters with information to assist them in identifying the age, sex and moulting stages of hunted species of waterfowl in Victoria. This field guide is apart of the Enhancing Game Management Initiative launched in 2006.This field guide details all five of Tasmania’s wild duck game species and is an excellent production. Hunters wishing to obtain a free copy can do so by contacting: Heath Dunstan DSE Victoria 03 5036 4821 or 0429 188 617 or email [email protected]

30

Short-tailed Shearwaters

The 2009/10 season saw increased scrutiny of the short-tailed shearwater harvest due in part to wide-spread reports of mass chick death and undersized chicks during the 2008/09 breeding season. The WMB has continued its program of monitoring harvested shearwater colonies and uses the results to ensure a sustainability of the harvest.The WMB received many reports of an unusually large number of dead or exhausted adult shearwaters on Tasmanian beaches post-migration and scratch-out/mating in November 2009. Considerable numbers of dead shearwaters were also observed along Australia’s east coast. Subsequent examination by WMB staff found all the birds to be severely emaciated and starvation was the cause of death. The weight of freshly dead birds was consistently around 400 grams, at least 20% below the typical adult body weight for this species. Most birds were mature, however only one individual had developed a very small brood patch, suggesting the dead birds were not in a suitable condition to breed. Although these large ‘wreck’ events cause concern, particularly amongst the general public, some natural mortality of adult birds following migration is expected and it is possible that prevailing ocean currents simply washed a higher proportion of dead birds onto beaches in 2009. It is unclear how such events may impact on the overall breeding population.Surveys of the breeding population in Bass Strait in December 2009 produced results that were consistent with previous years, although the trend varied between colonies. Pre-harvest surveys in March 2010 indicated that the percentage of burrows occupied by chicks had decreased from previous years, however, there is no evidence at this stage of a long-term decline.

Recreational Harvest 2009 2010Colonies open to harvest 44 44Licences issued 1,125 1,087State-wide reported take 49,830 51,807*Permit returns 90% 75%*Harvest (Furneaux group) 25% 30%

Staff from the WMB also completed pre-harvest surveys at Fort Direction in southeast Tasmania in February 2009. Burrow-occupancy levels and occupied burrow densities were at historical lows across this site.During 2010, the recreational muttonbird season was open for 16 days in early April. A summary of the recreational seasons in 2009 and 2010 is provided below in Table 1.

Table 1 *Preliminary figures onlyIn both seasons most birds were reported as taken from islands in the Furneaux and Hunter Island groups. Burrow destruction resulting from trampling during harvest activities continues to be observed during post-harvest surveys on Little Dog and Little Green islands (the closest open colonies to townships on Flinders Island). Recreational birders are reminded to take care to avoid unnecessary damage to these fragile areas

Rookery ClosureDue to lower than usual mutton bird numbers surveyed on the South Arm Fort mutton bird rookery, the area was closed to the Aboriginal Community during the 2010 mutton bird season. In the past the Community have acquired cultural permits to take a controlled number of juvenile mutton birds from this rookery. Patrols conducted by the Wildlife Rangers in the area revealed no issues associated with the closure of the Fort rookery. In previous years there has been a history of excessive illegal mutton birding activity on the Cape Deslacs Nature Reserve rookery

Game Species Update

31

Game Species Updateat Clifton Beach. This activity prompted the Parks and Wildlife Service to install a second boom gate located at the middle car park, this has acted as a significant deterrent for mutton birding in the reserve.

Pheasants

Game Licence sales for the 2010 pheasant season were slightly down this past year but from all accounts the season was once again a success. Each hunter on average took a bag of 2.8 birds for the two day season which is similar to the success of the 2006 season.Pertinent issues with the King Island pheasant season:1. Coordination of access to private land.If you are considering a trip to King Island for the season please make sure you have appropriate permission to hunt on private land.

Year Licences Sold

Reported Take

Average Bird per Hunter/km2

Survey Results (Cocks /km2)

2006 122 352 2.9 3.2

2007 112 227 2.0

2008 147 306 2.1 3.5

2009 124 273 2.2

2010 110 303 2.8 3.1

Table 1 Pheasant licences, reported take, average take per hunter and surveys results.

2. Continued support for the King Island Game Bird Association (KIGBA)

The KIGBA has had a significant history and tradition of managing the pheasant season on the Island. In recent years the KIGBA has had difficulty in attracting enough funding to continue the good works of the past. The breed and release management program has now ceased and extra effort is being re-directed towards feral cat control. During this period of change, it will be important to monitor the population to ensure sustainable take levels. As you will observe in Table 1 biannual surveys conducted by the Department show that cock numbers are remaining consistent around 3.0 cocks / km2 for areas surveyed. For more information regarding the pheasant season on King Island, please contact the KIGBA on 0428 611 254 or email [email protected]

32

In Tasmania, Bennett’s wallaby, Tasmanian Pademelons and brushtail possums have been at historically high populations since the 90’s. These significant increases have occurred State-wide leading to the current situation where these native animals are considered significant economic pests on many farms due to the high levels of pasture and crop losses being experienced by primary producers. The native animals are directly, and effectively, competing with domestic livestock for pasture, reducing crop yields and making it very challenging and costly to establish forestry, which combined with the restrictions placed on 1080 poison usage, increasing controls on firearm usage, reducing numbers of shooters, an ageing population of shooters and quite significant cost increases for fencing materials, this all leads to landholders having a larger problem to manage but with fewer controls. To assist landowners several documents have been prepared.

Planning Toolkit

A key part of the Alternatives to 1080 Program is the planning toolkit to assist landholders plan for browsing wildlife specifically wallabies and possums. This toolkit contains

three key documents which have been designed to assist landholders develop a wildlife management strategy specifically for their property. Managing the economic losses caused by the over abundant native species; Bennett’s wallaby, Tasmanian Pademelons and brushtail possums has been the focus. 1. Managing Production Losses due to Wildlife on Farms – Planning Guide This publication is based on effective vertebrate pest management principals, but customised towards the Tasmanian situation and based on the work carried out under the Alternatives to 1080 Program and experience within the WMB. The Planning Guide has been designed to be used in conjunction and as a reference when completing the Managing Production Losses due to Wildlife on Farms – Wildlife Management Strategy Workbook and the Managing Production Losses due to Wildlife on Farms – Information Booklet documents.

Grazing equivalents - wild animals to domestic stock

=Forester kangaroos

OR

OR

OR

OR

OR

Bennetts wallabies

Pademelons

Wombats

Brushtail possums

Rabbits1 dry sheep equivalent (DSE)

(50 kg wether)Original concept by Mick Statham

Managing Browsing Wildlife

Wildlife Management BranchDepartment of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment

Planning GuideManaging production losses due to wildlife on farms

A planning toolkit for managing browsing and grazing losses from wallabies and brushtail possums on farms in Tasmania.


Wildlife Management Strategy

Work Book

Managing production losses due to wildlife on farms



Information Booklet


Managing production losses due to wildlife on farms

+ +

Grazing equivalents - wild animals to domestic stock

33

2. Managing Production Losses due to Wildlife on Farms – Wildlife Management Strategy WorkbookThis workbook has been designed for landholders to complete as they work through the Planning Guide and in conjunction with the additional information resourced in the Information Booklet. Cross referencing between the Planning Guide and Wildlife Management Strategy Workbook occurs to make the process of developing a Wildlife Management Strategy for a particular property a process that landholders can do independently.3. Managing Production Losses due to Wildlife on Farms – Information BookletThe Information Booklet is a compilation of eleven different documents combined into a single booklet for ease of management and document safe keeping. The Information booklet has been designed to be supportive of both the Planning Guide and the Wildlife Management Strategy Workbook by providing landholders with additional information needed in the management of losses caused by browsing wildlife. Six of the eleven brochures contained within this booklet were first released by the Alternatives to 1080 Program at Agfest 2010. They have since been revised. These six brochures are titled;• Browsing Wildlife Species• Monitoring and Measuring Pasture Losses

to Wildlife• Fencing• Shooting and Hunting Effectively• Trapping, and• 1080 Poison.These brochures focus on helping landholders understand how the different species will impact on a farm’s productivity. Which control options are effective in different situations, how to undertake effective monitoring, and also how to implement the currently available control options effectively.

This toolkit is an important first step in addressing the information void that currently exists by providing a framework, and the necessary tools, that landholders can use in implementing an effective wildlife management strategy.An initial mailout to landowners who already have a Property-based Wildlife Management Plan will occur in late February. At the same time, a letter will be sent out to remaining wallaby crop protection holders detailing the toolkit’s availability and process for obtaining a hard copy. The toolkit will be available on DPIPWE’s website www.dpipwe.tqas.gov.au/browsingmanagement after February. Inquiries should be directed to Kate Gill on 03 6336 5196 or 0439 736 314.

Wallaby Fencing Guide

A second expanded edition of the Wallaby Fencing Guide, incorporating more information on wombat gates and wallaby grids was also released in time for Agfest 2010.The Wallaby Fencing Guide – revised edition is drawn upon and promoted within the toolkit and copies are available by phoning the Wildlife Management Branch reception on 03 6233 6556. This guide is also downloadable from DPIPWE’s website.


Page 39

1080 PoisonUnderstanding 1080 Poison Use

Wildlife Management BranchDepartment of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment Page 31

TrappingA niche management tool for Pademelons and Brushtail Possums

Wildlife Management BranchDepartment of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment Page 23

Shooting and Hunting

Effectively - Right Approach,

Right Gear, Right People

Wildlife Management Branch

Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment Page 15

FencingAn effective management tool for

Wallabies and Pademelons

A wallaby proof fence paying for itself on King Island.Electrical outrigger positioned at the

top of the netting to deter brushtail

possums from climbing over the fence.


Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment

Mesh extended onto the ground to

deter digging and fence breaches.

Page �

Monitoring and

Measuring Pasture

Losses to Wildlife


Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment Page �

Browsing Wildlife

Species - Description,

Status, Distribution, Diet and

Control Options and Issues


Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment

34

BITE Model

BITE (Browsing Impact on Tasmanian Ecosystems) is a computer software model and was developed by Tasmanian Institute Agricultural Research (TIAR) through the Alternatives to 1080 Program. Access to to BITE can be obtained by contacting the GMU. Details on page 43.


Wallaby proof fencing trial

During the later half of 2010, a trial on several properties around the State began to test an 11/90/15 netting with a footer already

attached. This fencing solution has been designed by Southern Wire to suit Tasmanian conditions. Customer feedback was the driving force behind eliminating the need to laboriously clip a fence footer on to netting.John North from the Game Management Unit has been involved in these trials and landowners wishing to know more about this fencing solution are encouraged to contact John, who’s details can be found on page 43.

Trials have been undertaken with fencing that has a folding footer (on left and insert) incorporated into the design.

Selecting the catchment where your property is located is the first step to finding your property using the map function; A view of the predicted

level of browsing for a parcel of land. The differing colours represent browsing zone classifications based on distances from the

bush edge (red = 0-50m, orange 50-100m, yellow 100-300m and green =>300m); A summary of estimated pasture production

and potential pasture loss due to wildlife for each zone highlighted on the parcel of land. The baseline data and assumptions used in the analysis can be easily modified to reflect known pasture growth and potential pasture

loss figures for a property.

Firearms Services Letter

To assist landowners and hunters meet Firearm Licence renewal requirements the following proforma letter has been prepared. This proforma is also available at www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au/browsingmanagement. .

35

Firearms Services Tasmania PoliceGPO Box 12645th Floor, City Police Station43 Liverpool StreetHOBART TAS 7001

RE: PERMISSION TO SHOOT - FIREARMS ACT 1996

Date: / / 20

I wish to advise that I am the owner/manager of the property known as .....................................................

Situated at ............................................................................................................................................................................................and comprising ......... hectares/acres.

I hereby grant permission to (full name) ............................................................................................................................

Of (residential address) ..................................................................................................................................................................

......................................................................................................................................................................................................................

With Firearms Licence number .........................................................

To enter my property and use firearms for the purposes of recreational hunting, vermin and vertebrate animal control.

Effective until ........./........../ 20......... Or until I advise it is revoked. (Cross out whichever not applicable)

Conditions of permission (if applicable)

......................................................................................................................................................................................................................

......................................................................................................................................................................................................................

......................................................................................................................................................................................................................

This permission may be withdrawn at any time by any means by me or any person authorised by me. Name of Landowner/Manager .................................................................................................................................

Address ...................................................................................................................................................................................................

......................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Signature ...........................................................................................................

Contact Number .........................................................................................


36

TASMANIA'S NEWEST FIREARMS AND ACCESSORIES STORE.

[email protected]

www.outdoorsupplys.com.au

24 Elderslie Rd Brighton TAS 7030Ph: 03 6263 2324 Fax: 03 6263 2296

WE ARE MAJOR STOCKISTS OF ALL THE FOLLOWING BRANDS - CALL NOW FOR PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

03 6263 2324

PRO STAFF 3-9X40 MATTE NIKOPLEX

PRO STAFF 2-7X32 MATTE NIKOPLEXLASER RANGEFINDER 1200 BUCKMASTER 3-9X40 NIKOPLEXMONARCH 10X42 ATB

VICTORY RF (RANGEFINDER) 10X45

1990NZ

TR1

320BB

UGP

FK

MASTER HUNTER PLUS

PENDLETON HUNTER

MINI PENDLETON HUNTER

MASTER HUNTER

ULTIMATE HUNTER

WHITE HUNTER

HUNTERS PAL

SKINNER

PRINCE

RBMC-11 SHOOTING RANGE BOX

FRR 30SHOOTING REST

SGR 30SHOOTING REST

PSR 30SHOOTING REST

CONQUEST 1.8-5X38

CONQUEST 2.5-8X32

CONQUEST 4.5-14X44 RET 20

37

Information

Are you aware of your obligations under the “Dog Control Act”

Amendments in 2009 to the Dog Control Act 2000 have targeted greater public safety in relation to dog attacks and an increase in the responsibilities for dog owners in an attempt to reduce the level of attacks on both people and domestic stock. These amendments include dangerous dogs, breeds of dogs, straying, dogs at large and microchipping.Proof of ownership and positive identification of a specific dog has been addressed by the compulsory microchipping of all dogs over 6 months of age by 1 July 2011. Any dogs that have not been done by this date and have been picked up by the authorities will be microchiped before they are returned and costs for this process will be recovered.The cost of having an individual dog done is approximately seventy dollars however if owners contact their local council, days have been organised and the procedure can be done for approximately one third of the price. The microchips are very small, around the size of a grain of rice, and are inserted under the skin between the shoulder blades at the base of the neck. It is a relatively painless procedure similar to a vaccination which upon completion will provide the owner with some positive identification of the dog.“Dogs at large” was also covered in the 2009 amendments. A dog at large is defined as one that is “not under the effective control of a person in a public place or in or on premises without the consent of the occupier” Whilst exemption has been given for working and hunting dogs, this could be of

particular concern for hunters who use dogs in the field where wallaby may spread dogs over a large area of land and in some cases onto adjoining landowners where they may be “trespassing”.Landowners who are engaged in running livestock have the right to destroy dogs that are “at large” on their property. Hopefully, this would not be the first course of action but bearing this in mind, communication between all potential parties is absolutely essential to avoid regrettable situations. Maps of property boundaries and an assessment of where wallabies will move should all be part of the planning process before hunting commences.Dog owners are strongly advised to read and understand the legislation that covers all aspects of dog ownership in Tasmania. Information can be found on the Tasmanian government web site www.dpac.tas.gov.au/divisions/lgd/dogdog_control.

Turtles

Recent amendments to legislation have seen that all freshwater Turtles can no longer be imported into the State or possessed. Since the three month Turtle Amnesty during late 2009, the Wildlife Rangers have noticed an increase in turtles seizures. Released or escaped turtles have devastating effects on Tasmanian native wildlife especially in and around dams, creeks and rivers. To assist in reducing turtle impacts on our environment please forward any relevant information on to the Wildlife Management Branch reception on 03 6233 6556.

TASMANIA'S NEWEST FIREARMS AND ACCESSORIES STORE.

[email protected]

www.outdoorsupplys.com.au

24 Elderslie Rd Brighton TAS 7030Ph: 03 6263 2324 Fax: 03 6263 2296

WE ARE MAJOR STOCKISTS OF ALL THE FOLLOWING BRANDS - CALL NOW FOR PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

03 6263 2324

PRO STAFF 3-9X40 MATTE NIKOPLEX

PRO STAFF 2-7X32 MATTE NIKOPLEXLASER RANGEFINDER 1200 BUCKMASTER 3-9X40 NIKOPLEXMONARCH 10X42 ATB

VICTORY RF (RANGEFINDER) 10X45

1990NZ

TR1

320BB

UGP

FK

MASTER HUNTER PLUS

PENDLETON HUNTER

MINI PENDLETON HUNTER

MASTER HUNTER

ULTIMATE HUNTER

WHITE HUNTER

HUNTERS PAL

SKINNER

PRINCE

RBMC-11 SHOOTING RANGE BOX

FRR 30SHOOTING REST

SGR 30SHOOTING REST

PSR 30SHOOTING REST

CONQUEST 1.8-5X38

CONQUEST 2.5-8X32

CONQUEST 4.5-14X44 RET 20

38

regulations relating to hunting and related activities are contained within the Wildlife (General) Regulations 2010.Other changes include:

Penalties1. The upper limit of penalties that may be imposed for breaches of these regulations have been increased in order to achieve parity and consistency with the penalty levels that are applied to similar and related offences that exist under other legislation.

Infringement Notices2. Authorised officers will have the capacity to issue on-the-spot Infringement Notices for breaches of the regulations. Previously this capacity was limited but it has been extended to cover most offences listed in the regulations. It should be noted that an authorised officer may choose not to issue an infringement notice but instead initiate court proceedings.

Hunting Methods3. There have been some minor changes to the regulations relating to hunting methods:• The previous regulations specified methods

of hunting that were considered illegal. However, this list was not complete, as there are other forms of hunting not listed that are also illegal under other legislation. This has led to confusion. The revised Regulations specify legal hunting methods so there is no confusion regarding the legality of methods that are not listed. That is, if they are not listed, they are not legal. The methods of hunting considered legal under the proposed revised remain the same. That is, there has been no change to what is or isn’t a legal hunting method.

• The use of snares is not permitted under provisions contained within the Animal Welfare Act 1993 and as a consequence all references to the use of snares have been removed from the new regulations. It remains illegal to use snares unless permission has been granted by the Minister.

Tasmania has new regulations to govern hunting and related activities

The Wildlife Regulations 1999 have been replaced by three new sets of regulations: Wildlife (General) Regulations 2010, Wildlife (Deer Farming) Regulations 2010 and Wildlife (Exhibited Animals) Regulations 2010.The old regulations were due to expire at the end of December 2010, so a project to review and remake these regulations commenced in September 2008. The review project involved extensive consultation with key external stakeholders and a public consultation period which concluded in August this year.The Department received 33 submissions from a broad range of stakeholders, including individuals, community groups and peak bodies, such as the Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association and Environment Tasmania. A number of submissions were received from individual hunters as well as from hunting groups.The overwhelming message from this consultation process was that the existing regulations were – by and large – all right. The majority of the total of 181 suggestions that were received through the public submission process related to broader policy issues and administrative matters, rather than the regulations themselves. All the matters raised are being considered by the Department through a separate process. The Department is very grateful to the large number of people who took the time to comment on the proposed regulations.The 2010 Regulations are not substantially different to the 1999 Regulations. The most significant change is to create three separate regulations, to govern deer farming, wildlife exhibitions and general wildlife matters, including protection, hunting and trade of wildlife and wildlife products. The decision to create three sets of regulations was made in order to improve the accessibility of the regulations to the general public. The

Information

39

• A new regulation requires any person taking wildlife that has been wounded to kill that wildlife immediately upon recovery. This change ensures that these regulations are consistent with the relevant Animal Welfare laws.

Taxidermy4. New to these regulations are provisions specifically providing for the regulation of the commercial taxidermy of wildlife. This is in response to – and an acknowledgement of – the activities and practices of Tasmania’s taxidermy industry. It should be noted that these regulations are only concerned with the taxidermy of wildlife. That is, they do not relate to the taxidermy of animals not listed on the Schedules of these regulations. This includes domestic animals and livestock.Anyone wishing to undertake commercial taxidermy of wildlife must have a licence. The regulations define ‘commercial taxidermy’’ as any taxidermy activity for which there is gain or reward, monetary or otherwise.A licence holder will be able to undertake taxidermy on partly protected wildlife, provided the person supplying the specimen has the appropriate licence or permit to possess that wildlife. “Partly protected wildlife” are listed under Schedule 4 of the regulations, and include brown quail, pheasant, the five species of ducks able to be hunted in season, muttonbird (shearwater), brushtail possum, Bennett’s wallaby, pademelon and non-farmed fallow deer.

A number of conditions have been included in the commercial taxidermy licence regulations relating to restrictions and controls on the receiving, buying, selling, display and disposal of wildlife for taxidermy purposes. In addition there are also controls on the process for licence holders to nominate agents to receive on their behalf an animal or animal part for taxidermy.The commercial taxidermy of protected and specially protected wildlife (Schedules 1, 2 and 3) is prohibited unless permission has been obtained from the Secretary of the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment. As has previously been the case, anyone wishing to undertake non-commercial taxidermy of partly protected wildlife and/or taxidermy of protected or specially protected wildlife (as defined in the regulations) must obtain a permit to possess that wildlife. Anyone with an interest in taxidermy should become familiar with the new regulations, which comprise Part 4 of the Wildlife (General) Regulations 2010.

Schedules5. The regulations contain schedules providing detailed information regarding licence and permit fees and conditions, skin royalties, offence penalties and the categorisation of different species of wildlife and domestic stock within the Regulations. The schedules within these regulations have been updated and amended to be consistent with the Nature Conservation Act 2002 and Threatened

SSAA (Tas) Inc. is Tasmania’s largest shooting organization, catering for the needs of hunters, be that individuals wishing to hunt alone or in small groups as has traditionally been the case, or as part of a club. In addition, some of its state-wide network of clubs provide for limited access to hunting properties.

Arguably the best value-for-money membership benefi ts in Australia with access to ranges on scheduled days, monthly magazine and extensive hunter insurance cover since 1997. Current policies are $10 million dollar public liability cover while recreational hunting, fi shing or on conservation activities and personal accident insurance while recreational shooting or hunting.

SSAA - the organisation for hunters

For more Information contact:

The Secretary: Peter Wesley

Ph/Fax 03 6393 7334 [email protected]

www.ssaa.org.au Policy conditions apply to all insurance cover(s)

Information

40

Species Protection Act 1995. The schedule in which the wombat is placed has been amended to reflect the fact that there is no open season on this species. However, it remains possible to obtain a permit for the taking of wombat for crop protection purposes.

Deer FarmingThere have also been several minor changes to the regulations for deer farming.1. The power of the Secretary of DPIPWE to

refuse a deer farming application has been made explicit. This power existed under the previous regulations but was contained in a different section.

2. As with the General regulations, an authorised officer may issue an on-the-spot infringement notice for any offences under the regulations.

These are the only changes to the regulations governing deer farming. The new Regulations are available through the Tasmanian Government’s law website. Go to www.thelaw.tas.gov.au and enter “wildlife regulations” in the search window.

BackgroundOther changes include:• Updating references to other legislation to

ensure accuracy and consistency.• Improving enforcement capacity by

increasing the capacity of authorised officers to issue on-the-spot infringement notices for a range of offences under all three sets of regulations.

• Providing a more effective, flexible mechanism for the regulation of wildlife parks and related activities by making provision for codes of practice to be developed to regulate captive wildlife management.

• Introducing more stringent requirements regarding the notification and management of escaped captive wildlife.

• Increasing penalties for serious offences.• Clearly defining acceptable hunting

methods• Creating a commercial taxidermy licence

to regulate commercial taxidermy activities in Tasmania, and improve consistency with other jurisdictions.

Information

Get the knowledge - get the fishNOTE: You must have a current email address to enter.

WIN this kayakFREE EntryGo to www.tasfish.com for details.

Drawn 28 February 2011.

41

Deer

ALEXANDER, Gary Thomas (Romaine)Fail to affix a prescribed tag to an antlerless deer (2 antlerless fallow deer).Take partly protected wildlife, no licence or permit.Possess the products of wildlife taken contrary to the Wildlife Regulations 1999.Take partly protected wildlife with the aid of a light no permit.To be of good behaviour for 18 months and not commit any further breaches of the Nature Conservation Act 2002. Firearm forfeited.BARR, Ross Kingsley (Primrose Sands)Take partly protected wildlife other than during an open season, no permit.Possess the products of wildlife taken contrary to the Wildlife Regulations 1999.Take partly protected wildlife with the aid of a light, no permit.Take deer with a firearm with a calibre less than 6mm.Fined $1500 plus court costs, firearm forfeited.SMITH, Bernard James (Wesley vale)Take partly protected wildlife other than during an open season, no permit.Possess the products of wildlife taken contrary to the Wildlife Regulations 1999.Take partly protected wildlife with the aid of a light, no permit.Take deer with a firearm with a calibre less than 6mm.Fined $550 plus court costs, firearm forfeited.

Muttonbird

WRIGHT, John Henry (Warrane)Take a form of wildlife on reserved land, no authority (10 Juvenile Muttonbirds).Possess the products of wildlife taken from reserved land, no authority (10 juvenile Muttonbirds).

Interfere with the breeding place of wildlife on reserved land, no authority.Fined $150 plus court costs.COOMBES, Wayne Geoffrey (Clarendonvale)Take a form of wildlife on reserved land, no authority (53 Juvenile Muttonbirds).Possess the products of wildlife taken from reserved land, no authority (53 juvenile Muttonbirds).Interfere with the breeding place of wildlife on reserved land, no authority.Fined $300 plus court costs.

Firearm related offences

HAY, Harrold John (Robigana)Possess an implement (silencer) designed to suppress the sound caused by a firearm.Fined $300 plus court costs. Firearm returned to owner (minus silencer). CASTLE, Craig Arron (Orford)Fail to comply with the prescribed safety requirements for the conveyance of a firearm. Fail to comply with the prescribed safety requirements for the conveyance of ammunition.Possess a loaded firearm in a vehicle in a public place.Operate a spotlight from a vehicle on a public street.Fined $300 plus court costs. Firearms returned to owner.BREDA, Joshua Anthony (Glenorchy)Fail to comply with the prescribed safety requirements for the conveyance of a firearm.Fail to comply with the prescribed safety requirements for the conveyance of ammunition.Allow a person to operate a spotlight from a vehicle on a public street.Possess the products of wildlife taken contrary to the Wildlife Regulations 1999.

Offender file 2011

42

Discharge a firearm within 10 metres of a vehicle for the purpose of taking wildlife, no permit.Take partly protected wildlife with the aid of a light, no permit.Fine $600 plus court costs. Firearm forfeited.PRATT, Jason Phillip (Claremont)Fail to comply with the prescribed safety requirements for the conveyance of a firearm.Fail to comply with the prescribed safety requirements for the conveyance of ammunition.Use a spotlight from a vehicle on a public street.Fined $600 plus court costs. Firearms returned to owner.OATES, Allen Harvie (Claremont)Allow another person who is not a holder of a current firearms licence to possess a firearm.Allow another person who is not a holder of a current firearms licence to possess a firearm.Fine $600 plus court costs. Firearms returned to owner.OATES, Harvie Tristan (Claremont)Possess a firearm whist not being a holder of a firearms licence. Possess ammunition whist not being a holder of a firearms licence.Fined $400 plus court costs. OATES, Joshua Brian (Claremont)Possess a firearm whist not being a holder of a firearms licence. To be of good behaviour for 3 years and not commit any further breaches of the Firearms Act 1996. DOUBLE, Timothy Edward (Newstead)Fail to comply with the prescribed safety requirements for the conveyance of a firearm.Fail to comply with the prescribed safety requirements for the conveyance of ammunition.

Possess a loaded firearm in a public place.Fine $250 plus court costs. Firearms returned to owner.COWEN, Andrew LeighFail to comply with the prescribed safety requirements for the conveyance of a firearm.Fail to comply with the prescribed safety requirements for the conveyance of ammunition.Possess a loaded firearm in vehicle in a public place.Fine $500 plus court costs. Firearms returned to owner.

Other Wildlife Offences

KOWAL Kirsty (Ravenswood)Possess a restricted animal (1 Macquarie River Turtle).To be of good behaviour for 18 months and not commit any further breaches of the Nature Conservation Act 2002.MORGAN, Frank Henry (Sorell)Knowingly take (damage) without a permit a listed taxon of flora (Calocephalus citreus). Threatened Species Protection Act 1995.Cause dam works to be undertaken without a permit. Water Management Act 1999.Fine: Convictions recorded. Court ordered the rehabilitation cost of $6640 to be paid into the Threatened Species Protection Fund. In addition to the above outcomes, legal proceedings are pending against a number of persons for wildlife and other related offences.

Offender file 2011

Possession of turtles is prohibited in Tasmania. Fines can range from $24 000 to $60 000 and/or 2-5 years imprisonment.

43

Contact List

Game Management Unit

Launceston Office

Annex, Mt Pleasant, 165 Westbury Road, PROSPECT

Mailing DetailsWildlife Management BranchPO Box 46, KINGS MEADOWS, 7249Fax Number: 03 6336 5311

Dave Leguis

03 6336 5342 (W) 0428 535 258 (M)[email protected]

Kate Gill


New Town Office

Mailing DetailsWildlife Management Branch13 St Johns Avenue, NEW TOWN, 7008Fax Number: 03 6228 5123

John North


Matt Byrne


Head Office

Third Floor, 134 Macquarie Street, HOBART

Mailing Details: Wildlife Management BranchPO Box 44, HOBART, 7001Fax Number: 03 6233 3477

Launceston Office – details above

Landline for Northern Rangers 03 6336 5307

Justin Febey

0407 567 901 (M)[email protected]

Matt Jones


Colin Spry


Please note, Wildlife Management Branch staff are field based and at times are unable to answer the phone due to other work commitments. You are encouraged to contact the Wildlife Management Branch general reception number for urgent assistance 03 6233 6556.

Wildlife Ranger Contact List

New Town Office – details above

Glenn Atkinson


Mike Greenwood


Jody Sargison


Reception

03 6233 6556


44

The eradication of feral cats from Tasman Island (SE Tasmania) is underway as a joint program by the Parks and Wildlife Service and Wildlife Management Branch. In wildlife management, the definition of ‘eradication’ is reducing a discrete population of pest animals to zero. This differs from ‘control’, which is where a pest species is managed indefinitely and removal is on-going. For some island situations it can be feasible to remove all individuals in a pest population. There can be significant costs associated with a pest eradication program, and for an eradication attempt to be successful, it is critical the following prerequisites are met:• all individuals are put at risk by the

eradication techniques employed• mortality exceeds recruitment at all

densities• the techniques used are acceptable to

stakeholders• the probability of the pest species re-

establishing is manageable to near-zero• the anticipated benefits outweigh the costs

of the project, and• sufficient stakeholder and organisational

support exists to see the project to completion

Where these criteria can be met, the costs and risks of eradication are often significantly less than for other strategies, eg. long term control.The Tasman Island Natural Values Restoration Program, which includes the cat eradication, had several stages. A Draft Plan to outline the best way forward was produced by Landcare Research - New Zealand in early 2009. During that year, various approvals were sought for poison baiting, scientific research, use of padded leg hold traps, and undertaking a management program in a National Park. Other plans were also needed: a Biosecurity plan to prevent further introductions of pests (eg. rodents), an OHS Plan, Operational Plan with details of on-ground works, techniques to be used and methods to detect remaining cats, and a Communication Plan for informing the public of progress. During 2009, recommended research was undertaken to inform the Operational Plan, and the training of two cat detector dogs began. To maximise likelihood of success, eradications generally use several techniques rather than relying on one method. This process moves from the broadest, least disturbing methods through to those targeting specific individuals. The Tasman Island project proposed poison baiting for the initial knockdown, followed by cage and leg hold trapping and then shooting.

Feral Cats on Tasman Island

Cat with freshly killed prion.

Tasman Island with light house.

45

Detection methods for remaining cats (monitoring phase) included trained detector dogs, remote cameras and intensive ‘sign searching’.The poison baiting* occurred in May 2010, followed 5 days later by several weeks of trapping. Spotlighting and hunting did not locate any further cats. In late May / early June, detector dogs were brought in and intensive searching for signs of cats continued. Monthly visits with dogs, remote camera checking and sign searching have not found positive indications of cats. Low numbers of fresh seabird carcasses however, have been found and the nature of these kills needs to be determined. It is possible an elusive cat still remains. The detection and monitoring phase will continue until (a) there is 12 months of no positive cat sign or (b) a cat is detected and despatched. If the latter occurs, a further 12 months of detection and monitoring will begin. Why invest in removing feral cats from Tasman Island? Cat predation is having a major impact on the survival of seabirds on the island (between 30,000 and 60,000 killed each year) as well as on other natural values. It is anticipated that removing the feral cats will lead not only to increased seabird numbers and opportunities for ecological restoration, but also to greater invasive species management capacity and increased support for similar projects in Tasmania. Tasman Island has provided the opportunity to assist with the development of new techniques and improve current ones which will assist other islands where feral cats need to be removed.Eradication requires much more than just killing the target species. Bringing a population to zero requires every advantage on the operator’s side, and all weaknesses of the target species exploited if possible. This relies on research into the best timing for knockdown, decisions on the most effective and humane techniques to use, and having

Feral Cats on Tasman Island

Dogs and handler searching for cat signs.

the commitment of funding and organisational support to complete the job. Removing the last 5% can take the same or more resources than for the initial 95%. Detecting and killing the last few individuals, and being certain the last one has been despatched, can be the most difficult part of the project. Many eradication attempts around the world have failed because they finished prematurely. PWS and WMB are committed to achieving success on Tasman Island.*The toxin used was PAPP (para-aminopropiophenone). Tasman is one of several islands in a federally funded research program aimed at developing a bait for broadscale feral cat control. The Curiosity® cat bait is in the process of registration and being trialled under field conditions. Sue Robinson

46

There are three subspecies of common wombat - Vombatus ursinus hirsutus which is found on the mainland, Vombatus ursinus tasmaniensis which is found in Tasmania and Vombatus ursinus ursinus which was once found throughout the Bass Strait islands but is now restricted to Flinders Island. In Tasmania, the common wombat (Vombatus ursinus tasmaniensis) is classified as partly protected under the Wildlife Regulations 2010, whilst Vombatus ursinus ursinus on Flinders Island is classified as specially protected. Often referred to as badgers here in Tasmania wombats have traditionally not found themselves in considerable conflict with landowners. Unless of course, they decide the best place for digging their burrows is under a farm building, through or under a fence or in an area that causes land instability, particularly in sandy country.

Fencing with wombats

In more recent times, fencing related conflicts have increased dramatically as a result of the increased use of wallaby proof fencing as a control option for managing pasture losses to Bennett’s wallaby and Tasmanian Pademelons (rufous wallabies). Wombats easily breach wallaby fences creating super highway entry points for other wildlife species and adding considerable cost and time constraints to fence maintenance programs. So much so, that considerable effort has gone into developing a wombat gate for specific use in Tasmania. These gates effectively allow wombats to enter and exit pasture areas but exclude both wallaby species. These gates rely on wombats being creatures of habit – they will determine where best to fit a gate within an existing fence line, and the weight of the gate being too heavy for most wallabies to push through. Information on wombat gates can be found in the Wallaby Proof Fencing Manual Revised Edition April 2010 produced by M. and H.L. Statham is available for download at www.dpipwe.tas.gov.au/browsingmanagement or by phoning the Wildlife Management Branch reception on 03 6233 6556.

Mange

The most serious health issue affecting wombats is mange, caused by a mite (sarcoptes scabiei) infestation. Mange is widespread and results in a slow painful death. Lee Skerritt’s investigations into mange suggested that wombats do not have an immunity to mites and that the clinical signs of mange are directly proportional to the extent of a mite infestation.Female mites burrow in the skin to lay eggs. Male and juvenile mites live externally on the skin and at the base of hair follicles. The itchiness caused by the eggs and mite faeces cause the wombat to scratch which in turn causes hair loss. Aggressive scratching leads to fluid being exuded from the skin through the tunnels caused by the female mites burrowing behaviour. The collective build up of dirt, bacteria and mite faeces results in the wombat’s skin developing hard crusts which then crack creating open wounds susceptible to infection and fly strike. It is also thought that certain conditions (humidity) in burrows either facilitates the breeding of the mites or opportunistic bacteria, mould or fungi present that may also become a contributing factor by exposing the wombat to poisonous toxins. The ears and eyes become scabbed resulting in deafness and blindness. An animal’s mobility becomes compromised, eating and drinking becomes difficult and the animal exhibits a hunched posture. Death becomes inevitable. There are contributing factors that impact on the progression of mange; how long it takes for the mite burden to reach critical levels, and how long it takes for animals to succumb to secondary infections. Habitat degradation and animals below optimum health due to competition for resources and being forced to closely cohabitate within an area impacts on life expectancy. Mites can potentially live for three weeks without a host. In the instance where an animal becomes infested with thousand of mites in a short period of time, the timeframe from infestation to death can be expedited.

Protected Species Profile – Common Wombat

47

Wombats can be treated for mite infestations, however a feasible approach for treating wild populations of wombats with a miticide has not yet been devised. All individuals have an obligation under Sections 8 and 9 of the Animal Welfare Act 1993 to not allow an animal that is injured and suffering to continue to suffer. If a landowner or hunter determines that euthanasia is the appropriate action for a wombat suffering from the later stages of mange, they can do so. The wombat should be left where it was euthanased, and as soon as possible notification given to the landowner and/or a Departmental Officer. It may also be advisable to take some photographs for later reference should the need arise.Whilst landholders are strongly encouraged to live with wombats, and most are happy to do so, it is recognised that there are situations where wombats need to be culled due to the damage or risk they are causing, and to reduce the densities in certain areas within the State. In these circumstances the Wildlife Management Branch do issue crop protection permits for the removal of a set number of wombats from a property. When appropriate, landowners are using these crop protection permits to euthanase wombats with mange thus ensuring these animals do not die slow and painful deaths whilst at the same time mitigating damage.Landowners who are experiencing conflict with wombats or who have wombats severely affected by mange on their properties are encouraged to contact the Department. Permits can be obtained by contacting WMB reception on 03 6233 6556.

Mange is caused by an infestation of mites leading to secondary infections resulting in death.

Protected Species Profile – Common Wombat

48

www.bgfirearms.com.au

Phone: 6259 5599 - 6259 557916 Patrick Street (Main Street) Bothwell, 7030

BG FIREARMSTASMANIA

49

During the 2009 wallaby season significant concerns and feedback were expressed and lodged to the Department about the low numbers and densities of both Bennett’s and Rufous wallaby in certain areas of the State. Reports ranged from the Central Highlands, Campbell Town, Ross and Fingal Valley districts as well as areas along the east coast. These concerns prompted veterinary staff within DPIPWE to undertake investigations into the health status of wallabies in Tasmania. Considering the climatic conditions experienced previous to 2009, it was an opportune time to undertake research and investigation of suspected parasitic burdens as a possible cause of widespread decline of both wallaby species. Research concentrated on investigating the more common know health concerns to wallaby species being: Echinococcus granulosus (Hydatids - actually rare in Tasmanian dogs and sheep now, and never diagnosed in wallaby in Tasmania), liver fluke, toxoplasmosis and endemic parasites.

Bennett’s Wallaby

Nine Bennett’s wallaby from the Midlands were initially investigated by conducting post mortem examinations specifically investigating heart blood, kidney fat index (measure of animal health) and finally through examinations of the liver for fluke, lungs and heart for cysts or evidence of parasitic presence. All wallabies returned negative results for toxoplasmosis and no signs of fluke or hydatids were found.

On close inspection of the heart a parasitic heartworm known as Breinlia mundayi was provisionally discovered in some of the hearts during post mortem. Breinlia mundayi is a parasite of the pericardium (membrane surrounding the heart) of the Bennett’s wallaby and has been identified as the cause of fibrinous peritonitis (fibre like threads in abdominal cavity of the animal), pleuritis (inflamation of lung membrane and chest cavity) and pericarditis (lesions on heart) in other species of wallaby on the mainland. Following on from this basic investigation an additional 14 Bennett’s wallaby hearts were obtained from the Fingal Valley. In total these investigations found evidence of the nematodes in: • 16/23 wallabies had worms (70%)• 14/23 had obvious changes to surface of

the heart (epicarditis)(61%)

Does the epicarditis have any effect on the animal?

It would depend on the severity of the inflammation and the percentage of the heart surface affected. In very bad cases, it could lead to constrictive or improper heart functioning which could ultimately result in an inability to tolerate any exercise.

Tasmanian Pademelon (Rufous wallaby)

Further to the study undertaken above, additional research was undertaken to assist in the morphological identification of the filariod worms in Tasmanian Pademelons

Kidney Fat Index (KFI) - Tasmanian Pademelons

Peritonitis

No Peritonitis

Tasmanian Pademelons

250%

200%

150%

100%

50%

0%

KFI

(%)

Health Status of Wallabies

(Thylogale billardierii)(Rufous wallaby) as well as assessing the significance on health when a wallaby has these filariod worms present. As part of the Maria Island macropod management, a pre-control biological sampling and health status assessments of 34 Rufous wallabies revealed a high prevalence of peritonitis and the filariod worms present in their abdominal cavities. This project helped to established a photographic database to assist in the identification of the filariod worms in the Tasmanian Pademelons (Thylogale billardierii) (see blue worm below) as well as testing the hypothesis that if wallabies were affected by these filariod worms then it would in turn reduce the amount of fat that is stored around the kidneys. Kidney fat index (KFI) has long been used to access the health status of wildlife and was first used by Riney (1955) as a measurement of overall body fat stores and body conditions in free ranging red deer. Since this time, this concept has been applied to a number of other species and this now includes macropods in Australia.A total of 34 Tasmanian pademelons were sampled from Maria Island. Field necropsies were performed and observations were recorded. Blood smear was prepared from the ear vein to identify the presence of microfilariae (worm larvae in the blood – these worms are spread by biting insects) and heart blood samples were taken from a selected numbers of animals for haematology and biochemistry. Body cavities and organs were inspected carefully to identify the presence of any gross pathology and the filariod worms.

The filaroid nematodes were removed from the peritoneal cavity and preserved in 70% ethanol, and subsequently stained with diluted iodine for microscopic identification. Total kidney and kidney fat were weighted to determine the kidney fat index (KFI %) as an indicator the animal’s fat reserve and body condition.

Results

From the 34 Tasmanian pademelon sampled, 22 animals had peritonitis (fibre like thread in adominal cavity) and 13 animals from these had filariod worms identified in the peritoneal (abdominal) cavity. The prevalence of peritonitis in the sampled population is 64%. The result seems to support the proposition that the presence of peritonitis does not seem to affect the health status of the Tasmanian Pademelons. These preliminary investigations cannot be considered as conclusive as low sample size limitations and lack of control animals.

Wallaby hunters can submit samples to the DPIPWE Animal Health Laboratory at Mt Pleasant in Launceston if they find anything unusual in animals they shoot. Just keep the samples as cool as possible (eg in a fridge, best not to freeze if possible) and contact Bruce Jackson 0407 872 520. We are especially interested in cysts found anywhere in chest or gut organs.

Health Status of Wallabies

50

Tasmanian Pademelon (Rufous Wallaby).

Parasitic heartworm Breinlia mundayi found in Bennett’s wallaby.

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game tracks 2011

Documents

game tracks publication

purpose of game tracks

federal wildlife management

wildlife management

hunting of wildlife

distributiongame tracks

state of tasmania

service tasmania