Balloted deer hunting in the Gippsland Lakes is set to expand, giving hunters
more opportunities while helping manage local deer populations.
From February, the area available for balloted Hog Deer hunting on Boole Poole Peninsula, within the Gippsland Lakes Coastal Park, will increase from approximately 600 hectares to 1,000 hectares. The number of hunters allowed into the area will rise from four to six.
Parks Victoria works alongside the Game Management Authority to ensure Hog Deer hunting is conducted safely and responsibly, while maximising recreational opportunities. The expansion builds on ongoing engagement with the Blond Bay Hog Deer Advisory Group, the Australian Deer Association, and the Sporting Shooters Association of Australia.
The move supports both recreational hunting and deer control programs under the Victorian Government’s Deer Control Strategy. Allowing licensed hunters greater access to public land also protects the Gippsland Lakes’ native species and landscapes from the impact of deer and contributes to the local tourism economy.
The hunting period remains unchanged, with three designated weeks running Monday to Friday between February and March. Licensed hunters are permitted to take one male and one female Hog Deer per year. Victoria is one of the few places where Hog Deer can be hunted free-range on public land.
Parks Victoria Regional Director Gippsland, Kerri Villiers, said the expansion would benefit both hunters and the environment.
“We’re delighted to offer more space and opportunity for deer hunting in the Gippsland Lakes,” Villiers said.
“Victoria’s public land has some of the best deer hunting in Australia and as well as being a valuable outdoor recreation activity it also has a positive impact on the environment.”
Australian Deer Association Advocacy & Deer Management Director Sean
Kilkenny said the move was a win for recreational hunters.
“This is another fantastic outcome for recreational deer hunters and regional Victoria,” Kilkenny said.
“Recreational deer hunting on public land in Victoria is an international attraction; we are grateful to once again be able to contribute to expanding it for future generations to enjoy.”
SSAA Victoria Hunting Manager David Laird said the expansion reflected a genuine commitment to increasing access to public land.
“SSAA Victoria is delighted to see the expansion of the balloted hunting area on Boole Poole,” Laird said.
“This will significantly increase the hunting opportunities for Victoria’s Hog Deer hunters. It is another clear indication of this government’s genuine commitment to increasing access to Victoria’s public land for deer hunting.”
For more information on the Boole Poole extension, visit the Parks Victoria website. Details on Hog Deer hunting are available through the Game Management Authority.
