The Nationals were well represented at the annual Field and Game Australia Showcase at the Melbourne Gun Club recently.
Member for Eastern Victoria Melina Bath, Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien, Member for Ovens Valley, Tim McCurdy and Member for Mildura, Jade Benham teamed up to reaffirm The Nationals commitment to regional conservation and sustainability.
The showcase provided an opportunity to further explore the deep connections between field and game sports and conservation.
The day highlighted the role of responsible hunting in Australia’s food and cultural heritage and featured clay target shooting and a meal prepared with locally sourced game.
Field and Game Australia CEO Lucas Cooke addressed the attendees, providing valuable insights into the organisation’s objectives, approach to environmental protections and preserving Australia’s hunting heritage, wetlands, and wildlife.
Ms Bath said Mr Cooke offered a comprehensive overview on the organisations ongoing work in pest management and habitat restoration.
“Field and Game members across Victoria continue to ensure our natural landscapes are managed sustainably and engage the broader community.
“The Nationals strongly support sustainability and conservation and the commitment and work undertaken by our hunting groups to improve environmental outcomes.”
Ms Bath said there is no better example of hunter conservation than the 1800 hectare Heart Morass next to the Latrobe River near Sale where Gippsland’s Field and Game members successfully transformed a barren wasteland into a thriving wetland.
“The success of Heart Morass rehabilitation project highlights the critical role regional and rural Victorians continue to play in responsible environmental stewardship.
“Regional communities have a deep understanding and respect for the environment in which they live, work and play.
“Events such as these highlight the importance of responsible land management and sustainable practices, which are key principles supported by The Nationals.”
Media contact – Jenni Rohde 0437 750 806
