The Department of Tourism and Culture has launched a new mobile phone application aimed at helping waterfowl hunters enjoy the upcoming season safely and responsibly.

Parks and Wildlife Commission NT (PWCNT) Wildlife Operations Assistant Director, Tracey Duldig, said the app provides hunters in the field with on the spot information in real time.

“Recreational hunting is becoming increasingly popular with 2500 permits issued for the upcoming season that starts on 1 October,” Ms Duldig said.

“This is the highest number of permitted hunters on record and I encourage them to download the new NT Hunting Mate app which was based on the successful NT Fishing Mate app.

“The NT Hunting Mate is a free official NT Government app to assist waterfowl hunters in the Territory to access hunting rules and related information and includes on-line reporting of hunting success, problem crocodile sightings and illegal activity.”

Key features of the NT Hunting Mate, available for free on all iPhone and Android smartphones includes:

·         Ability for hunters to record and report their hunting success online while still in the field

·         Know your species – ID of waterfowl species permitted to hunt

·         Maps and locations of hunting reserves

·         Details about the waterfowl hunting season including possession limits, hunting times, non-toxic shot

·         Online reporting function for illegal hunting and problem crocodiles

·         Ability to apply for a permits through the app (online applications)

“Waterfowl hunters are reminded that they must have a valid permit to hunt during the 1 October to 23 December season,” Ms Duldig said.

“Daily bag limits are seven magpie geese and 10 ducks and wildlife rangers will be patrolling hunting reserves during the season to ensure hunters aren’t in breach of any laws or regulations.

Ms Duldig said PWCNT will be attending this Sunday’s annual Goose Fever between 10am and midday to help hunters with their permit applications and promote the new NT Hunting Mate app.

More information about the 2016 waterfowl hunting season is available at https://nt.gov.au/leisure/hunting-and-shooting including information about where to hunt and how to obtain a hunting permit online.

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Media note – For further information please contact Tracey Duldig on 89955007.