The Parks and Wildlife Commission NT (PWCNT) has praised the overall behaviour of hunters this waterfowl hunting season which officially ends at 7.45pm tomorrow.

Darwin/Urban Parks Chief District Ranger, Dean McAdam, said a record 2175 hunting permits were issued with only two infringement notices handed out since the season began on 12 September 2014.

Lambells Lagoon Conservation Reserve and Howard Springs Hunting Reserve were closed before Christmas on 23 December.

All other locations close to waterfowl hunting tomorrow night, including Shoal Bay Conservation Reserve, Harrison Dam Conservation Reserve, Crown land and private property.

“We congratulate hunters on their good behaviour this season and thank organisations such as NT Field and Game and their members for educating the public about safe and ethical hunting practices,” Mr McAdam said.

“The Parks and Wildlife Commission NT is now urging hunters to lodge a permit return with us as soon as they can, with 28 February the due date.

“Permit returns are a critical, efficient and effective part of monitoring the hunting effort.

“They ensure the best available data is available to help determine the timing and duration of the next hunting season, along with what the bag limits should be.

“We will continue to carefully monitor waterfowl populations so we can maintain the balance between the long term sustainability of waterfowl and this popular aspect of the Territory lifestyle.

“Anyone hunting tomorrow is encouraged to stay safe, Be Crocwise and enjoy the day.”

Ends

Media Note – for more information contact Dean McAdam 0418828471

Issued: 4pm Monday, 5 January 2015