THA forestry division: Hunting season closed

The Division of Food Production, Forestry and Fisheries has reminded the public that the hunting season is officially closed. According to the Conservation of the Wildlife Act Chapter 67:01, the Fifth Schedule, the season is closed from February 28 but a grace period throughout March is permitted to dispose of all prohibited meat.

The closed season runs until September 30.

Any person hunting or a member of a party engaged in hunting during the closed period is liable to a fine of $10,000 or six months' imprisonment.

The division said it is also an offence to have in possession, serve, purchase, sell or expose for sale during the closed season, any animal referred to in parts one and two of the act.

Anyone guilty of contravening the provisions is liable on summary conviction to a fine of $200.

The division added that all state game licences expire on the last day of February annually.

The mandatory data form, which is part of the state game licence, must be correctly completed by the licensee and returned to the Department of Natural Resources and Forestry on or before May 31.

For more info, contact the Department of Natural Resources and Forestry at 660-2079/639-2273/5232.