CONGRATULATIONS to all the law-abiding recreational hunters on the start to the 2025 duck season.
It was wonderful to see large numbers of recreational vehicles and boats pulled in at local businesses to fuel up and stock up over the weekend before heading out for what was no doubt a great day enjoying a traditional pastime.
Indeed, Gippsland is a big beneficiary of the many recreational hunters who visit our region throughout duck season and boost the Victorian economy by an estimated $356 million each year*.
While I understand the practice of duck hunting remains controversial in some circles, the reality is that despite ongoing misinformation campaigns, most hunters do the right thing and ensure waterfowl numbers and habitats are preserved so that the legal recreational sport can continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
Although not a hunter, I am proud to call myself a member of Field and Game Australia’s Sale branch – which is the biggest in the country – because I know that Field and Game members remain actively involved and committed to habitat restoration and protection.
I am grateful that common sense has prevailed and the 2025 duck season is off to a fantastic start.
Danny O’Brien MP, The Nationals Member for Gippsland South
*Economic contribution of recreational hunting in Victoria, Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions, June 2020.
