General News
14 February, 2025
Barry's Corner
Now is a good time to get rid of any feral deer running wild in the bushland while they are easier to find and spot. One of the only good things to come out of these dreadful fires is that the ferals will be more exposed and vulnerable to shooters.
Much of the bottom half of the Gariwerd/Grampians National Park has been affected, but already, new tree trunk shoots are emerging. If we get some rain soon, it will hasten growth, and before long, there will be enough foliage to help prevent further soil erosion.
However, any deer and goats that survive the impact of the fast-moving fires will be feeding on the fresh regrowth and trampling understorey species. That’s why now is the best time to remove these ferals before they cause too much damage.
It is always difficult to decide on removing deer, particularly when they cannot be utilised after being shot. They have been classified as protected game animals, and special arrangements are required to deal with them under national park regulations.
Of course, it is a waste not to make use of them, but those in higher pay grades than me have allowed deer protection to be caught up in the "Santa Claus fantasy" for years. As a result, their numbers have grown out of control.
Nor is it acceptable to leave a wounded animal suffering—it must be handled by skilled operators. Ethics committees have a lot to answer for, as they often create barriers that prevent effective programs from proceeding.
Many people are concerned—not just city-based folk, who are often shielded from on-ground work or unpleasant duties. We have reached a point where common sense is frowned upon, and that is a real pity.
It’s not the government’s fault. Using government tools can be unwieldy, like steering a juggernaut. But if we continue to do nothing, the overpopulation of these ferals will only worsen, becoming even more costly. Biodiversity has already suffered significantly, and the losses will be even greater in the future.
We can take action now, and that would make a big difference.