Game licences extended 12 months

Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party member Jeff Bourman thanked Agriculture Minister Jaclyn Symes for working with him towards the extension. “COVID-19 restrictions have stopped us from hunting game so it’s only fair that licences are extended,” Mr Bourman said.

“We’ve all had to do our part to battle the virus outbreak, and despite a lot of hunters not agreeing with the restrictions, we’ve done what’s been asked and this is, in my opinion, a small bit of recognition that we’ve done that.”Coronavirus restrictions has prevented game hunting for hog and sambar deer, stubble quail and game birds at the beginning of the season.

Agriculture Minister Jaclyn Symes said hunters would not need to seek to renew their licences for 12 months beyond when they were due to expire.

“We thank hunters for staying home and doing the right thing as we all work together to slow the spread of coronavirus. It’s been challenging and frustrating, but it’s working,” Ms Symes said.

Duck hunting season opens on Saturday, May 2 and Mr Bourman said he hoped the season would be extended.