The Department of Primary Industries' (DPI) Game Licensing Unit (GLU) is now targeting illegal hunting hot spots and the NSW Police will police these offences with a specific focus on roadside stops on hunters' vehicles.
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"Hunters across NSW are reminded that both GLU Inspectors and NSW Police officers have powers to stop vehicles they believe are involved in hunting offences," GLU Director Dr Andrew Moriarty said.
"Far too often we see vehicles of interest try to drive off after being detected.
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"Failing to stop when directed by a GLU Inspector is an offence, with drivers who fail to stop being issued with a Court Attendance Notice.
"GLU Inspectors have significant investigative powers to assist them track down drivers who fail to stop as well as powers to seize vehicles suspected of being involved in hunting offences."
These powers were put to the test earlier this year when a vehicle of interest failed to stop for GLU inspectors during a routine patrol near Oberon.
"Subsequent investigations identified the driver of the vehicle at the time and the passenger," Dr Moriarty said.
"As a result, the passenger was issued penalty infringement notices for hunting offences and the driver issued a court attendance notice for hunting offences and failing to stop."
The matter was heard before Oberon Local Court last month. The driver was convicted of a hunting equipment offence and fined $750 and also fined a further $750 for failing to stop when directed.
"This is an important result for the GLU and it puts illegal hunters on notice that the GLU in partnership with NSW Police will continue to make it as hard as possible for illegal hunters to operate and make every effort to detect and deter illegal hunting across the State," Dr Moriarty said.
Local communities are urged to report illegal hunting activity through the joint GLU and NSW Police program: Shut the Gate on Illegal Hunting. Reports can be made anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Further information about hunting is available by visiting dpi.nsw.gov.au/hunting or by calling the Customer Service Team on 02 6363 7650.
