A number of pro-hunting voices have been appointed to the NSW Game and Pest Management Advisory Board, to provide advice to the Minister and Department of Primary Industries (DPI) on matters including feral animal control, research, educational courses and opportunities relating to game hunting.
The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) this week formally announced the appointees on the Board, which represents the interests of licensed hunters in relation the to the Game and Feral Animal Control Act 2002, which covers R-licence hunting in state forests, among other matters.
The appointees are:
- Andrew Macaulay (Chair)
- Ella Cameron
- Naomi Jackson
- Ned Makim
- Peter Shepherd
- Robert Costello
- Timothy Pryor
- A nominee from the Australian Veterinary Association; the specific person is to be confirmed.
NSW DPI has said that, collectively, the Board appointees “include representatives of regional NSW and have expertise, skill or knowledge in the areas of pest management, wildlife, veterinary science, hunting, education and community engagement”.
Australian Pig Doggers & Hunters Association (APDHA) president Ned Makim is among the appointees and said he was thrilled to see his name on the list.
“I’m thrilled for a couple of reasons — one is that, to me, it’s an elevation of traditional pig hunting with dogs and it’s a recognition of that culture’s contribution to the economy and ecology of NSW,” he said.
“Personally, I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to represent all hunters, at a high enough level to help the voice of your average hunter be heard.”
Mr Makim said part of the Board’s role including acting as a conduit between hunters and decision makers, and there were many keen shooters and hunters on the Board.
“We’ve had a get-to-know-you meeting and from that I was greatly encouraged by the attitudes and skill level, and enthusiasm of the people on the committee,” he said.
“I’m taking it as a great opportunity to advance the understanding of the contributions hunting makes to NSW.”
The Advisory Board can be contacted via gameandpest.advisoryboard@dpird.nsw.gov.au.
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