A STATE-WIDE hunting compliance operation will be conducted this June long weekend, targeting illegal and unlicensed hunters.
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Department of Primary Industries Game Licensing Unit Manager Troy Hogarth said NSW enforces strict, non-negotiable rules in relation to hunting.
“Hunting compliance officers with the support of NSW Police will be conducting surveillance patrols in a number of State Forests over the long weekend,” Mr Hogarth said.
“We will also be responding to any reports of illegal activity and continuing our covert surveillance operations.”
Mr Hogarth’s message comes a week after a 23-year-old Tenterfield man was charged with animal cruelty and ordered to face court this month.
The alleged offender is reported to have been hunting on enclosed land near Mt Mackenzie.
Mr Hogarth said the enforcement of new requirements introduced earlier this year is also a key component of the long weekend operation.
“With the reopening of State Forests for hunting, there is certainly a focus on safety and education and as part of the weekend’s operations we will be checking that licensed hunters comply with all the new regulations,” Mr Hogarth said.
“This includes holding a license and current permit, as well as carrying a working GPS device with detailed mapping data installed.
“June long week-end is typically a busy hunting weekend, and more than 200 forests will be open for licensed hunting activities.”
If people witness what they believe to be illegal hunting they can report the activity to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
“We take all reports of illegal hunting very seriously and investigate reports thoroughly,” Mr Hogarth said.