Released 15/08/2016

The ACT Parks and Conservation Service is encouraging residents to report dangerous and illegal activity in our parks and reserves after a group of three men were fined over $5400 for pig hunting in Namadgi National Park with one more now under investigation.

“The three men, who were travelling in a four-wheel-drive vehicle and had dogs, were escorted from Namadgi by our rangers on Wednesday 29 June after being discovered illegally hunting,” ACT Parks and Conservation Service Regional Manager, Brett McNamara said.

“I am pleased that following a subsequent investigation between ACT Policing and ACT Parks and Conservation Service the men have now received significant fines. During the course of this work, a fourth man has also been identified and is under investigation for four incidences of illegal hunting in a reserve between February 2016 and July 2016.

“This sends a clear message to the community that this kind of behaviour is unacceptable. Illegal hunting poses a risk to other park users, wildlife and native habitat.”

Mr McNamara said that ACT Parks and Conservation Service rangers and the Rural Patrol police officers have established a productive working relationship over many years.

“As a result of our partnership with the Rural Patrol, ACT Policing has issued a number of infringement notices in recent years to offenders detected in and around Canberra’s parks and reserves. We will continue to send a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated.

“I’d also like to encourage the general public to report illegal hunting and other illegal activities, such as dangerous driving or vandalism, to help keep our parks and reserves safe for everyone and free from damage. Reporting this kind of behaviour does make a difference.”

Anybody with information relating to any illegal activities within nature reserves is encouraged to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

- Statement ends -

ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate | Media Releases

Media Contacts

Name Phone Mobile Email

Geoff Virtue

6205 0312

0418 961 806

geoff.virtue@act.gov.au


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