Goulburn-Murray Water (G-MW) reminds duck hunters to exercise caution while hunting at water storages this season and that G-MW does not issue approval to use firearms on its irrigation channel network.
Shane McGrath, G-MW Acting Managing Director said water storages were used by many people for a range of activities and it was important that hunters considered other members of the public and the environment by only hunting in designated hunting areas and adhering to relevant regulations.
"Although water levels at storages are high, hunters should be vigilant of boating speed restrictions and submerged objects often hidden just below the water surface. Boat users should also be familiar with weather conditions on open water and areas of fast flow," Mr McGrath said.
Following the recent Government decision to declare a duck hunting season from 19 March 2011 to 13 June 2011, duck hunting will be permitted this season on the following G-MW storages:
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Cairn Curran Reservoir
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Hume Reservoir (Victorian lakebed areas)
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Tullaroop Reservoir
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Lake Eppalock
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Laanecoorie Reservoir
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Greens Lake (Corop)
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Lake Eildon
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Yarrawonga Weir (Vic waters)
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Lake Buffalo
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Lake Boga
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Waranga Basin
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Kangaroo Lake
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Lake Nillahcootie
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Lake Charm
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Lake Tutchewop
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Lake Nagambie and the water of Goulburn Weir
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Little Lake Charm
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Racecourse Lake
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Duck hunting is not permitted in the Winton Wetlands area (formally Lake Mokoan). Further information is available from the Winton Wetlands website at http://www.wintonwetlands.org.au/
Hunters may hunt ducks from boats under power on waterways such as rivers, creeks and streams up to a speed of 5 knots. On open or static waterways such as swamps or lakes the hunting of ducks is not permitted from a motor boat if the motor is running, whether it is in gear 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 firearm or operate a vessel under the influence of alcohol," Mr McGrath said.
Hunters should respect the rights of private property ownership in the proximity of waterways and are reminded that it is an offence to discharge a firearm in a populous place.
"Storages may be subject to outbreaks of blue-green algae, and hunters should familiarise themselves with the associated hazards. Dogs are specifically at risk," Mr McGrath said.
Warning signs will be erected at G-MW storages where blue-green algae has been detected. Current blue-green algae alerts are available from G-MW's website at http://www.g-mwater.com.au/
"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 hunters to become familiar with CFA regulations and local fire restrictions," said Mr McGrath.
"To protect water quality, it's important that all litter is removed from G-MW land and waterways," Mr McGrath said.
Information on duck hunting is available from the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) via the DSE website at http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/ or by phoning 136 186.
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