ENVIRONMENT Minister Ryan Smith has ruled out overturning a ban which prevents a snakehandler from performing in Melton Shire.
As reported by the Weekly, residents and Melton MP Don Nardella have called for authorities to allow Snakebusters’ Raymond Hoser to conduct shows.
Mr Hoser was forced to cancel bookings when the Department of Sustainability and Environment cancelled his wildlife demonstrator licence in August last year.
He pleaded guilty in the County Court to nine offences, including demonstrating venomous snakes within three metres of the public.
The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal upheld DSE’s decision to cancel Mr Hoser’s licence, despite Mr Hoser challenging it.
Mr Nardella wrote to Mr Smith, asking him to reverse the DSE ban, but a government spokesman said VCAT’s decision was final.
Mr Nardella said it was unfortunate, and “disappointing” for the 10 people without a job and those “missing out on that experience.”
Mr Hoser said the company has lodged a complaint to the Victorian Competition and Efficiency Commission because he said he believes the government has breached ‘competitive neutrality’.
