THE State Government has resumed its fox and wild dog bounty for 2023, with authorities set to again operate monthly collection centres across Victoria from March to October.
Foxes and wild dogs prey on livestock, particularly lambs and sheep, and can inflict significant economic and production loss to farmers while also having an impact on native wildlife.
This year’s bounty will continue with the digital system introduced last year to help streamline the application process and reduce wait times at collection centers.
There is a collection point open at 5 Mollison Street, Broadford for foxes only.
Collection is open from 10.30am to 12.30pm on the following days: April 6; May 4; June 1; June 29; July 27; August 24; September 21; and October 19.
Agriculture Victoria biosecurity manager Jason Wishart said participants could submit foxes and wild dogs they had hunted for a monetary reward at specified collection centres during scheduled collection times.
“I urge participants to refresh their knowledge of the bounty terms and conditions to ensure their bounty submissions are accepted,” he said.
“Foxes and wild dogs require ongoing management by all land managers and Agriculture Victoria encourages an integrated approach using a range of management practices.
“The bounty offers incentive for community participation in fox and wild dog management, but other techniques also are important to effectively manage the damage they cause.”
The bounty program received $6.7 million as part of the Victorian Government’s 2020-21 Budget and will continue until 2024.
To register for the new digital system and for more information, visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/bounty or call the customer service centre on 136 186.
