Group urges end to duck shooting at Lake Modewarre

FRIENDS of Lake Modewarre and Browns Swamp have held a meeting at Lake Modewarre, which drew local residents and three Surf Coast Shire councillors to advocate for the prohibition of duck shooting.

Councillors Adrian Schonfelder, Heather Wellington, and Kate Gazzard, along with members from the Friends of Lake Modewarre (FOLM), convened on the invitation of concerned community members to address the impacts of duck shooting on the local ecosystem and resident safety.

The assembly aimed to spotlight the issues surrounding Lake Modewarre and Browns Swamp, as they are areas nestled amid homes and frequented for birdwatching and recreation.

FOLM campaigner Melissa Tinney said there was unanimous agreement among Browns Swamp residents against the continuation of duck shooting due to safety risks, noise pollution, and the threat of accidental injuries.

“The main reason for this is safety issues, houses close to swamp, young children playing near the Swamp, continual and excessive noise stress from constant shooting during the duck season, and high likelihood of accidental shooting, given locals use the area for bird watching and general walking.

“There is also no clear signage to warn the public of shooting.

“It seems ludicrous in this day and age, that an area like this is subject to large numbers of shooters.

While Cr Schonfelder supported eradication of vermin such as foxes, rabbits and wild pigs Ms Tinney said they were all in agreement that Brown Swamp should be closed for the season this year and reclassified to flora and fauna where duck shooting is not allowed.

Ms Tinney said Lake Modewarre shared similar risks due to its environmental value and role as a habitat for swans and endangered waterbirds.

The group are calling on the state government to close Lake Modewarre and Browns Swamp for the upcoming duck shooting season and to safeguard these areas under flora and fauna protection statutes, ensuring their preservation for future generations.

Victoria has so far not followed Western Australia, New South Wales, and Queensland, which have ceased the practice regarded by some as sport and others as unnecessary and inhumane.

The Geelong Times previously reported recreational duck hunting would continue in Victoria after the Allan Government rejected the recommendation of a Labor-led inquiry to ban the sport.

Outdoor Recreation Minister Steve Dimopoulos said duck hunting was a “legitimate activity” that supports regional communities and economies.

“Our position has not changed and we’re supporting recreational duck and quail hunting to continue in a safe, sustainable

and responsible way with minimal harm to our environment.”

Geelong Duck Rescue co-ordinator Natalie Kopas said the group were disappointed but not surprised with the government’s decision.