The Parks and Wildlife Commission NT (PWCNT) has congratulated the overwhelming majority of recreational hunters taking part in yesterday’s start of the 2015 Waterfowl Hunting season.

Wildlife Ranger Ray Chatto said this year has seen a number of key changes introduced to help make recreational hunting an easy and enjoyable experience for Territorians and interstate visitors.

Mr Chatto said on line applications and extended permits mean that shooters will now be able to enjoy this unique Territory experience for many years to come.

He said PWCNT Rangers, with assistance from the NT Police, were out in force to ensure that everyone was licenced and approved to take part in the start of the season.

“About 1000 permits had already been issued when the season started and the vast majority of hunters did the right thing on opening day,” Mr Chatto said.

“Shooters can begin hunting at the gazetted time of 6.15am and are reminded to do so for the enjoyment of all hunters.  

“We have issued several verbal warnings and several hunters will receive written warnings for shooting early this year

“The risk of shooting early is that light conditions are too poor to make a clear identification, thereby risking shooting other protected wildlife such as the Masked Lapwing, wounding waterfowl and potentially getting a significant penalty or $76,500 fine under the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act.

“Recreational hunters are reminded of the importance of reading and abiding by their permit conditions, and to make every effort to not litter or damage our Parks and Reserves.

“Rangers will continue patrolling hunting reserves throughout the season’s duration.”

More information about the 2015 waterfowl hunting season is available at www.nt.gov.au/waterfowl, including information about where to hunt and how to obtain a hunting permit online.

Ends

Media note – For further information please contact Ray Chatto on 0401110205.

Issued: 3.30pm Thursday, 24 September 2015