What the ballots are all about: a rare chance to hunt the magnificent hog deer (image: Steve Robinson).
NEWS Paul Gray
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The Australian Deer Association (ADA) recently hosted its Hog Deer Hunter Education Weekend, held on Sunday Island, providing an invaluable learning opportunity for the 49 hunters who were recently successful in this year’s hog deer ballots. These participants were among 125 individuals drawn from a pool of 1,593 hopeful applicants, preparing to hunt across three balloted areas: Snake Island, Blond Bay and Boole Poole Peninsula.
The weekend began with a boat trip to Sunday Island on Saturday morning, where attendees were warmly welcomed by Scott Pattie on behalf of the Para Park Cooperative, the island's custodians. The day’s program commenced with David Laird from the Blond Bay Hog Deer Advisory Group (BBHDAG). He outlined the responsibilities and opportunities for those fortunate enough to secure a ballot spot and offered practical advice for a successful hunt.
The Game Management Authority (GMA) provided a comprehensive presentation, covering essential topics such as season and bag limits, the role of authorised officers, exclusion zones, check-in station processes, and the responsibilities of hunting companions. Their detailed insights helped prepare attendees for the logistical and legal aspects of their upcoming hunts.
Rich Insights and Practical Demonstrations
Peter Mabilia and Jenny Bland from the Snake Island Cattleman’s Association (SICA) delivered a fascinating session on the history of grazing on Snake Island, the exclusion zones around their huts, and the network of walking tracks. Their contribution highlighted the unique heritage and environmental considerations of the area.
A practical demonstration led by Barry Gell and Gavin Counsell equipped participants with essential field skills. Barry and Gavin demonstrated how to process a hog deer, including removing internal organs, taking measurements for record-keeping, and caping a stag. The session’s hands-on approach was complemented by a hearty lunch of venison and lamb burgers.
David Laird later discussed the intricacies of boating to Snake Island and Boole Poole, emphasising tidal considerations and potential hazards. This was particularly valuable as Transport Victoria and the local Coast Guard were unable to attend this year.
Participants then enjoyed field activities, including a guided walk to a high stand led by ADA life member John Mumford, which showcased the advantages of elevated hunting positions. Others joined a bus tour to observe hog deer in the wild, always a highlight of the weekend.
Saturday evening concluded with a social gathering featuring venison gyros prepared by the Para Park team. A lucky participant took home a pair of binoculars generously donated by OSA Australia, adding excitement to the evening.
Shared Wisdom from Experienced Hunters
On Sunday morning, after a cooked breakfast, ADA member Daniel Mitchell shared his experiences hunting Snake Island and Blond Bay. Daniel, a three-time balloted hunter, provided practical advice, including gear recommendations, water transport solutions, and the benefits of using a rickshaw or tree stand. He also emphasised the importance of waterproofing gear, using power banks, and maintaining patience in the field.
Brian Boyle wrapped up the presentations with a discussion on hunting Boole Poole. Drawing from his experience of hunting there two decades ago, Brian underscored the challenges and rewards of this unique location.
The weekend concluded with a panel discussion featuring seasoned hunters Daniel Mitchell, Barry Gell, David Laird, John Mumford and Gavin Counsell. Their shared insights, such as the timing of hog deer movement, provided valuable perspectives and proved there’s no single ‘right’ way to hunt these elusive animals.
A Weekend to Remember
Mid-morning, participants were ferried back to the mainland, expressing nothing but praise for the weekend. The event not only prepared hunters for their upcoming ballot periods but also fostered a deeper understanding of the environment, heritage and community surrounding hog deer hunting in Victoria.
As the balloted hunters prepare to head into the field - with seven hunting periods at Snake Island (eight hunters per period), three at Blond Bay (four hunters per period), and three at Boole Poole (four hunters per period) - the lessons learned from the Hog Deer Hunter Education Weekend will undoubtedly prove invaluable. The ADA’s commitment to education and collaboration ensures that hunting remains sustainable, respected and rewarding for generations to come.
Acknowledgements
The ADA extends its heartfelt thanks to the Blond Bay Hog Deer Advisory Group for trusting us to run the event, the Para Park Cooperative/Sunday Island team for hosting us, catering, and playing a significant role in the delivery of the course, the external presenters such as the GMA and SICA, all the volunteers who contributed to the event’s success, and all those who attended and actively participated.
Barry Gell demonstrates how to process a hog deer stag.
Kurt Murphy from GMA ran through all the rules and regulations.
Much of the presentations were held in the clubhouse on Sunday Island. No teacher’s pets here!
One lucky participant took home a pair of binoculars generously donated by OSA Australia.
John Mumford explains the benefits of hunting hog deer from a high seat or tree stand.
Daniel Mitchell, a three-time balloted hunter, relayed his experiences and advice to course participants.
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