SSAA NSW

Sporting Shooters Association of Australia (NSW) Inc. 21 The Livestock Production Assurance Program (LPA) which took effect from 1 October this year, has the potential for far reaching consequences for hunters and for ranges located on private property where the land owners make their living through livestock sales. LPA accredited producers are required to have a Farm Biosecurity Plan and implement effective biosecurity practices in their on-farm management. Where reasonable and practicable, they must control people, equipment and vehicles entering the property, thus minimising the potential for property contamination and, if possible, keep a record of such movements. Because of the potential to spread pests, weeds and serious infectious diseases to an un infected property through mud/soil or seeds on vehicles or clothing, the control of people and vehicles onto such properties takes on a new importance. Minimising these risks is a shared responsibility between the range user or hunter and the land manager. The general biosecurity duty means that anyone who knows or should know about a biosecurity risk has a duty to prevent, eradicate or minimise such a risk. As visitors, when using a range or hunting on private property we must make ourselves aware of the potential biosecurity risks posed and be proactive in taking steps to reduce these risks. When using a range: • 'Come clean, go clean'. ○ Members and visitors are expected to have clean boots and clothing when entering the property. Soil, organic material, etc, must be removed from boots and clothing prior to entry. ○ Vehicles entering the property to access the range must be clean. Soil, organic material, etc, must be removed from vehicle and tyres prior to entry. ○ Take your rubbish home with you. • Avoid unnecessary movements of people and vehicles around the property. ○ Limit the movement of vehicles. ○ Drive directly from the property entrance to the range site. ○ Stay on established roads or tracks. ○ Do not drive your vehicle across paddocks as you may spread unwanted weed seeds. When hunting: • Do not transport carcasses or dump them in other areas. ○ Bury the carcass intact where you harvest the animal or take the carcass and harvested meat home and dispose of any wastage in the bin. • Do not transport or release live animals into the environment. • If you are hunting with dogs or ferrets, remove any soil, seeds or other organic material from their fur making sure they come to and leave the property clean. Ensure they are fully vaccinated and only take them to the property if you have fi rst obtained permission from the landowner. It is important that the security of all animals is maintained whilst hunting for both animal welfare and biosecurity reasons. • Wear gloves when handling or butchering an animal and practice good hygiene afterwards. • If you see anything suspect, take photos and report your sightings via the biosecurity risk reporting form on the DPI website or call 1800 680 244. Everyone has a responsibility to reduce the biosecurity impact so that we can continue to enjoy our recreational activities well into the future. Biosecurity and the shooting sports

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