Both men pleaded guilty in Myrtleford Magistrates’ Court to illegally hunting game at night in Dandongadale, Victoria, last April.
Game Management Authority acting director of compliance and intelligence Grant Allan said GMA and Victoria Police officers intercepted the two men in their vehicle about 9.30pm, near Yarrarabula Creek Track.
Officers found a firearm in an open gun bag next to live ammunition and a spotlight on the front passenger seat.
“The two men admitted they were looking for deer at night and were intending to use the firearm to shoot a deer if they saw one,” Mr Allan said.
He said Victorian hunters must be familiar with the laws and illegal hunting would not be tolerated.
“People must not to be in possession of an unsecured firearm or ammunition and a spotlight between 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise in recognised deer habitat.
“Anyone carrying a firearm in a vehicle must ensure it is unloaded and securely stored separately to securely stored ammunition.
“Those who break the law may face significant fines and penalties, be prosecuted, have their equipment confiscated and lose their game and firearms licences.”
Mr Allan said the GMA was recruiting more authorised officers to prevent illegal hunting and to keep game hunting as a safe and responsible practice.
Hunters and the public are urged to report illegal hunting to the GMA through its website at: www.gma.vic.gov.au or by phoning the Customer Contact Centre on 136 186 or by contacting Victoria Police.
For more information on game hunting in Victoria, visit: www.gma.vic.gov.au
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