No Hunting Trials for Western Australia Parks

The Western Australia State Government quashed the hopes of hunters across the state on Tuesday when it turned down a recommendation to hold recreational hunting trials on public land. The Public Administration Committee tabled reports in early March advising a two-year recreational hunting trial, but the Liberal National Government has said it does not support open recreational hunting in national parks and other nature reserves, and as a result will not conduct the trials.

Environment Minister Albert Jacob said, “While we acknowledge the significant work and research undertaken by the committee, the Government’s number one priority is community safety. Much of the State’s south-west is heavily visited and used by tourists and local residents, and their safety in accessing these areas is paramount.”

In regard to hunting for the purposes of pest control, the Minister said that the opportunity already existed in the State for recreational hunting groups to partner with Government agencies to support control programs and assist in the long-term management of pest animals. 

The move by the Government to protect the safety of those enjoying the splendour of WA national parks cements Western Australia as a fantastic place to experience some of the best wildlife and natural scenery that the country has to offer. Take for example Avon Valley National Park. Located just an hour and a half north-east of Perth, this pristine park is just isolated enough to ensure that visitors really feel like they’re escaping right out into the wilderness.

Named for the Avon River that runs through the centre of the park, this 4,800 hectare sanctuary is light on facilities and camping amenities, offering only the bare minimum to ensure that the park remains as pure as possible. That doesn’t mean that there are no campgrounds available though - in fact, for those taking the smart option of a campervan rental (which gives you a way to experience raw nature in comfort), Homestead Campground is particularly well suited, providing a large, flat camping area in the centre of the park. You’ll find toilets, picnic tables and water there, but make sure to boil all water before drinking, as it’s untreated. Although you’ll need a camping permit for the park itself, no bookings are required for this campground - it’s first come, first served - but during peak season it will pay to check availability before you set out.

One of the best ways to experience Avon Valley is to get out on foot and enjoy the beautiful bushwalks the park has to offer. There’s a number of marked routes on offer, but if you intend to head off the beaten track let a park ranger know first. For the longer tracks you’ll want to bring along a topographical map and compass, just for safety’s sake. And of course a camera and binoculars are optional but highly recommended - shooting the local wildlife takes on a whole new, more eco-conscious meaning with your camera in tow.

Something that’s immediately noticeable when you explore the park is how untouched Avon Valley is. There’s a purity to the experience that’s rarely found, even in other national parks - something that looks to be preserved for years yet, thanks to Western Australia’s renewed commitment to keeping all WA parks and reserves as safe as possible, both for local wildlife and those who make the pilgrimage to discover nature at its best.