Duck hunters urged to take care at water storages

Goulburn-Murray Water (G-MW) is urging duck hunters to exercise extreme care while hunting at water storages this season and reminds hunters that G-MW does not issue approval to shoot on its irrigation channel network.

G-MW's Water and On Land Manager David Jackson said water storages were used by many people for a variety of activities and it was important that hunters considered the public and the environment by following a few simple requirements and by shooting only in designated hunting areas.

"Water levels at most storages are low, and hazards are often hidden just below the water surface.  Low water levels mean varied speed restrictions and that many water users are sharing a reduced area of water, which could increase the possibility of accidents," Mr Jackson said. 

Following the recent Government decision to declare a duck hunting season on 20 March 2010 to 30 May 2010, duck hunting will be permitted this season on the following G-MW storages:

*There are exclusion zones in place at Lake Eildon, Lake Eppalock and Kangaroo Lake where the shooting of game birds is prohibited.  Further information about G-MW storages and exclusion zones are available via the G-MW website at
 www.g-mwater.com.au/recreationandtourism

Hunting from powerboats is not permitted when the motor is running, whether the vessel is in motion or not.

"While in boats, hunters should wear a life jacket at all times. Waders and gumboots are not recommended to be worn in boats and hunters should never use a gun or operate a boat under the influence of alcohol," Mr Jackson said.

Hunters should respect the rights of nearby residents on the foreshore and lakebed areas.

"Hunters are reminded that they may not hunt within a kilometre of any G-MW structure and for the 2010 season this includes the Lake Mokoan inlet channel and embankment due to the works associated with current decommissioning works".

Several storages are subject to unpredictable outbreaks of blue-green algae, and hunters should familiarise themselves with the hazards associated with direct skin contact and avoid consumption of any water. Boiling the water will not make it fit for consumption.

"Camping at storages is permitted only in defined caravan parks or camping grounds, and fires may only be lit in properly constructed fireplaces.  G-MW encourages shooters to become familiar with CFA regulations and local fire-lighting restrictions, as conditions are currently extremely dry at most storages,"

In order to avoid potential adverse impact on water quality hunters are requested to remove all litter generated from their activity from G-MW land. 

Information on duck hunting in areas not managed by G-MW is available from theDepartment of Sustainability and Environment (DSE).

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Media Contact:         Sheree Fitzgerald

Position:                    Corporate Communications Adviser

Telephone:                 03 5833 5754