Two Bacchus Marsh men and a man from Riddells Creek have been slapped with a total of $2166 in fines for using dogs to hunt wild pigs in the Lerderderg State Park.
On June 20, the three hunters were apprehended on the Bluegum Track with knives and dogs.
Patrols by Parks Victoria rangers and police to detect illegal hunting in parks have resulted in several fines being issued in recent months. Two Trentham men have been charged in the same period.
Parks Victoria compliance manager Ron Waters said rangers were aware of “ongoing breaches” of this kind.
“These kinds of offences are both illegal and unacceptable in parks and reserves … we will be continuing our efforts to address illegal hunting and damage to park property,” Mr Waters said.
It is an offence under the state Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 to use dogs to attack feral pigs. Breaches of the act may result in charges of aggravated cruelty, an offence which attracts a fine of up to $72,624 and two years’ imprisonment.
“Hunting is a legal activity in Victoria and is permitted in a range of public land categories and on private land with the permission of the land owner,” said a Parks Victoria spokeswoman.
“However, it must be conducted in a safe, responsible and lawful way. Substantial penalties apply for breaches of the law and hunters may find their firearms and other equipment seized.”
Anyone with information about illegal hunting in state parks should contact Parks Victoria on 13 19 63.
