The safety of people, pets and livestock are key concerns of farmers affected by the State Government’s authorised ground shooting program.

Reluctant to speak publicly, farmers have told The [Naracoorte] News the operation takes place at night, and it is far too close to homes, pets, sheds, yards and livestock.

Further risks include bullets ricocheting affecting campers in unknown areas as well as farmers or workers spotlighting for rabbits and foxes as well as deer.

Additionally, farmers are sometimes left wondering if they can hear illegal shooters, or if it is a gunman authorised by the State Government.

“The latest roadside shooting operation has raised concerns with a number of landowners in the affected areas,” spokesperson Jake Nicholson said.

In Naracoorte a year ago Mr Nicholson independently hosted a successful Wild Deer Forum for farmers and hunters, attended by 300 people. He has since been the voice for farmers concerned by some of the actions of the landscape board.

“It’s been a hot topic with those I have communicated with, the most common issue surrounding the program being its overall safety,” Mr Nicholsons said.

“For these concerns to be raised in parliament by politicians you know there is some serious concern out there.

“This isn’t just the same old people trying to complain about pest control, this is legitimate concern from the public and landowners.

“Personally, I think the roadside shooting operations reward doesn’t warrant the associated risks.

“There are too many unknowns even with all the protocols and technology at hand within this operation.

“The operational procedures alleviate the known risks, but there are so many unknowns in this situation.

“For example bullet ricochets, farmers, workers, campers in unknown locations on private property adjacent to the operation etcetera.”

Mr Nicholson explained that if he was tasked with the ground shooting program, even with all the gear prescribed, “I would still decline”.

“There is always some amount of risk involved with any shooting operation, I just don’t think this environment is controlled enough,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Limestone Coast Landscape Board team leader for engagement and communication Andrea Bartetzko has responded to questions raised in State Parliament regarding the ground shooting program.

Upper House Member Connie Bonaros asked six questions – the first related to consultation with neighbours.

Ms Bartetzko said letters were sent to neighbouring properties prior to Christmas. Following calls from landholders requesting more information, another letter was sent in mid-January to provide further information.

She said there was a delay of 10 days to ensure all landholders received additional information, and to request a text notification 72 hours prior to the start of any 10 day period of shooting “if they so wished”.

Regarding roadside culling near residential premises, properties and homes, Ms Bartetzko said the contractor was familiar with the area “having undertaken ground shooting operations for over five years with the Limestone Coast Landscape Board”.

“A 500m buffer is established around houses and residential areas to prevent residents from being disturbed by firearm discharge late at night,” Ms Bartetzko said.

She claimed SAPOL was made aware of all feral deer culling operations undertaken by landscape boards.

“Rifles are fitted with suppressors and contractors are required to advise SAPOL when they are being used,” she said.

“The contractor advised local SAPOL 1 February that he was commencing operations.”

Regarding the risk of flying bullets being mitigated Ms Bartetzko highlighted the national standard for ground shooting feral deer.

“Shooting is undertaken at night when traffic is very low to non-existent. Ground shooting operations will occur between 5 pm – sundown, and 4 am – sunup,” she said.

Signage was also being placed on roadsides around the operational area.

Ms Bonaros also queried if discussions were undertaken with the contractors regarding the possibility of criminal prosecution “if things go wrong?”

Ms Bartetzko highlighted various legal requirements, policies and procedures.

“This roadside culling of feral deer in accordance with legislation and approved procedures is not a criminal activity,” she said.

Ms Bonaros asked: “How on earth was roadside culling in proximity to private premises effectively by snipers allowed by this government given the safety concerns that have been raised by locals in the area?

Ms Bartetzko said the landscape board “would like to clarify the roadside shooting is not undertaken by snipers, the single accredited contractor is acting in accordance with the National Standard Operating Procedure: Ground Shooting for Feral and Wild Deer.”

This article appeared in the Naracoorte News.
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