Field & Game Australia Annual Report 2022-23 by Field.and.Game.Australia

Field & Game Australia 2022-23

ANNUAL REPORT

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

Field & Game Australia OUR MISSION To be the most effective organisation in the promotion of hunting, recreational shooting, and habitat conservation. WHO WE ARE FGA was established in 1958 by hunters who were concerned about the loss of wetland habitat for the game birds they loved to observe and hunt. FGA is now the nation’s most progressive firearm hunting and conservation organisation with six decades of service to the association’s membership, including hunters, target shooters and conservationists. We have passed the incredible milestone of 60 years, and FGA represents more than 18,000 voluntary members united by interests in target sports, hunting, and the desire to see Australia’s wetlands preserved for future generations. OUR PATRONS PROFESSOR GRAHAME WEBB, BSC (HONS), PHD. THE HONOURABLE DAVID HAWKER, AO. MR MAX DOWNES, BSC, PGD.

Guide to the Annual Report This is the annual report of Field & Game Australia (FGA) Inc. (ABN 79 042 436 123) for the financial year ending June 30, 2023. The report provides information from the Board, branches and stakeholders of FGA about the association’s operations and performance and is presented at the Association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM). FGA cannot be held liable for any printing errors in this document. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Contributors: Peter Hawker, David Hawker AO; Glenn Falla, Lucas Cooke, Danny Ryan. Printed by: Willprint, Shepparton Feedback: We welcome your comments regarding this report. Telephone (03) 5799 0960 with your feedback, or email ceo@fieldandgame.com.au.

Contents

ABOUT FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA �� 2

WETLANDS ENVIRONMENTAL TASKFORCE FINANCIALS �� 12

BOARD AND STAFF �� 3

2022 BRANCH AND MEMBER AWARDS �� 13-14

FGA CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REPORT �� 4

HUNTING AND GAME MANAGEMENT REPORT �� 15-16

FGA BOARD CHAIRMAN’S YEAR IN REVIEW �� 5-7

PEST CONTROL & OTHER VOLUNTEER HOURS REPORT �� 17

FGA FINANCIALS �� 8-9

MEMBERSHIP REPORT �� 18

WETLANDS ENVIRONMENTAL TASKFORCE REPORT 11-12

CLAY TARGET PARTICIPATION REPORT �� 19

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

Field & Game Australia Board Members 2022-23

David Anderson

Danny Ryan

Deputy Chair

Chair

Adam Carson

Trent Leen

Vicki Norris

Paul Sharp

FGA team

Lucas Cooke

Glenn Falla

Conservation & Hunting Manager glenn.falla@ fieldandgame. com.au

Chief Executive Officer lucas.cooke@ fieldandgame. com.au

021 | www.fieldandgame.com.au

Wendy Russell Media Co-ordinator wendy.russell@ fieldandgame. com.au

Kathryn Rohde

Katherine Johnson

Gabrielle Stute

Membership Officer membership@ fieldandgame. com.au

Branch Admin Support Officer membership@ fieldandgame. com.au

Administration Support membership@ fieldandgame. com.au

FGA National Office 65 Anzac Ave, Seymour VIC 3660 phone (03) 5799 0960

ASSOCIATION LIFE MEMBERS

Dr Hugh Martin, MBE (dec)

Allan Graham

Ron Danby

Ron Bryant (dec)

Ruby Cato (dec)

Rick Foster

Doug Hemingway, MBE (dec)

Geoff Proudfoot

Russ Bate, OAM

Des Thomas, OAM (dec)

Gary Howard, OAM

Tom Chick

Phil Brown, OAM (dec)

Albert Chamberlain (dec)

Bill Paterson

John Foster (dec)

Graham Eames

Rex Cambrey

Ian McLachlan

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

vacant position

FGA CEO’s report, 2022-23 To our esteemed members, board, and stakeholders: As I sit to reflect on the year that has passed, the overwhelming feeling that resonates with me is one of gratitude. The opportunity to serve as the CEO of Field & Game Australia (FGA) is an honour that I do not take lightly. I took on this mantle as an interim successor after the departure of Dean O’Hara. It is imperative to recognise Dean’s contributions in his time as CEO, and I would like to extend my sincere appreciation for what I learned while working for him, and the solid foundation he left for us to build upon. To the FGA board and our invaluable members, your confidence in formally appointing me to this position in January 2023 has been the driving force behind my dedication. Your continued support has fortified my commitment to championing the causes we hold dear. We cannot gloss over the significant and ongoing challenges FGA faces. Our pillars stand firm, yet the persistent attacks on duck hunting aren’t just an affront to this activity alone; they threaten our very essence. Our clay target shooting community must remain alert and involved. Should hunting face bans, it would likely be based on ideological reasons. However, the pretexts used – such as noise concerns, environmental pollutants, declining participation – can, and likely will, be turned against clay target shooting next. The threat is real and looming. Despite these challenges, there is much to be hopeful about. FGA enjoys robust political ties at state levels in New South Wales, Tasmania, South Australia and Victoria. Yes, there’s always room for improvement, but our current standing is a testament to our collective efforts. Simultaneously, the strengthening bonds with academia are beginning to shift perceptions. The work being undertaken within universities is breaking down stereotypes about hunting and making

impactful contributions. Adhering to our strategic objective of being a ‘voice of reason’ has yielded positive traction across scientific, political, and media landscapes. A special mention is due to the Wodonga-Albury branch for its Lucas Cooke outstanding efforts in hosting the 2022 National Carnival. The record-breaking number of participants was heartening to witness, and I eagerly await the 2023 nationals at Clunes. Transition phases are rarely smooth. We’ve faced challenges with our staffing in recent times, and I’d like to acknowledge and thank every member who has served in the Seymour office. The future holds promise for better member service support at a national level. Our unity was manifestly clear in the overwhelming support for the FGA fighting fund. With donations exceeding $100,000, and FGA’s commitment to match that, we’re not just financially equipped but morally obligated to champion hunting rights. We pledge to be judicious with these funds, focusing on long-term benefits. Our financial prudence over the past year has fortified our position. While having a surplus as a not-for-profit is commendable, we’re aware of the challenges ahead. The realm of insurance, especially for branches and individuals involved in shooting sports and hunting, is complex. Rest assured, we are diligently exploring viable options. Engagement is our lifeline. To all our members, I urge you to stay connected, be vocal, introduce friends and family to our cause, and deepen your involvement. With declining memberships, every renewal and referral bolsters our position. Moreover, increasing our footprint in conservation, even if it means organising small pest mitigation shoots annually, can make a world of difference. Lastly, FGA’s bedrock – our board – has seen changes. I want to convey my deepest appreciation to all outgoing board members for their invaluable contributions. To our new members, your journey might be demanding, but it is critical to our mission. To everyone involved in our journey – your belief, dedication, and passion are our greatest assets. Let’s move forward with purpose and unity. Warm regards,

Lucas Cooke

Field & Game Australia chief executive officer

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

FGA Chairman’s report, 2022-23 I am pleased to advise that Field & Game Australia has continued to advance in the past 12 months despite some adversity. This has been the most challenging time in the history of the organisation with regard to hunting seasons and the difficult and complex political situations in Victoria and South Australia. The board election held in October 2022 saw the departure of Daniel Young after three years of dedicated service to the board and organization; some of the changes to the organisation’s structure and the progression of the strategic plan are in part due to his efforts. The board welcomed Trent Leen and David Anderson, and David accepted the role of vice-chairman. Following the exit from the board in August of Nikki Rees with two years of her term remaining, the board coopted Paul Sharp to complete the term left vacant by Ms Rees. The current board continues to be active, providing oversight and working hard to create strong policy and direction for the organisation to represent its members’ best interests. Operationally, we saw the termination of then CEO Dean O’Hara in August and a significant restructure of staffing and roles within the organisation.

An active 12 months

FGA has remained very active in the past 12 months across its three pillars of operation – hunting, conservation and clay target shooting – and has recorded a small increase in membership over the previous year. It is a key goal of the organization to return membership levels to pre-COVID times.

2021-22 AGM

The annual general meeting was conducted on time and within good governance timeframes in October at Taylors Lakes, in close proximity to Tullamarine and all major freeways. The dual technology/in person format worked well and will be adopted for this year’s AGM as well.

National carnival 2022

targets. The English Sporting event was held on the Monday in changing conditions, with perfect weather from 8am11.30am giving way to pouring rain from 11.30am2.30pm. Danny Ryan Adam Shale coped best of the 225 shooters who faced the varying conditions, claiming the title following a shoot-off. There is a long and distinguished list of branches, individuals, sponsors and attendees to thank for making the event a fitting return to competition shooting after two years of events being cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions. Additionally, under a new format and management the event made a financial profit after many years of net losses, while also giving the host branches a very healthy return. We look forward to the event at Clunes in November 2023 under a similar structure.

Spotlight on the science

During December and January we evaluated science provided by government, civil and private entities in order to present submissions with valid and logical arguments around the duck season-setting parameters in both South Australia and Victoria, and discussions were also held with authorities in NSW and Tasmania – some with success and others not so. Nevertheless, our involvement has allowed us to build our working knowledge around these processes to improve our position across all spheres and states. There was a disappointing result for the Victorian Interim Harvest Model, given changes made to the inputs versus the actual conditions. This became less relevant after the Victorian Outdoor Recreation Minister made an adverse decision in giving our Victorian members a 35day duck hunting season with a four-bird bag limit per day and a ridiculous 8am start every day. Our very vocal objection was met with a standard form letter; however we did get very good coverage on national and state television news, radio and major newspapers, with many interviews making the airwaves and print.

The staging of the Field & Game Australia National Carnival at Wodonga Albury Field & Game in early November 2022 was touch-and-go nearly to the start of Inquiries loom the event, with record October rainfalls throughout most Very soon after the season announcement came the of eastern Australia lending an element of uncertainty. additional announcement of an inquiry into native bird Thankfully, a terrific attendance of 585 competitors hunting tabled in the Victorian Legislative Council by FIELD GAME title | December 2020– February 2021 | www.fieldandgame.com.au for the 150-target ASF&national faced near perfect a renowned anti-duck-hunting inner-city Labor MP, shooting conditions on the Saturday and Sunday after followed closely by SA announcing the same thing. torrential rainfall mid to late Friday. Adam Hirchfield was crowned National Champion in both Good seasons enjoyed the Off The Gun and Handicap events held over the 150 We had a successful South Australian season with 5

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

a near full bag with only slight modifications, and Tasmania received similar season conditions and enjoyed a very good season with little to no disruption to hunting in that state. The Northern Territory is looking forward to the opening of its goose and duck seasons with improved conditions over the previous year.

Rising to the challenges

There is no doubt that duck and quail hunting has not faced this level of adversity since the non-season years of the Millennium Drought – but FGA met the challenge head-on and moved quickly to assemble a working team headed by Robert Tigani as our lead consultant to form our submissions to the select committee in both Victoria and South Australia. The result was a document that melded 65 years of FGA history into 75 or so pages and also examined and expanded upon current science and positions that were defendable and most importantly truthful. Our submissions will become legacy documents for the organisation and have been recognised by international organisations such as Ducks Unlimited and Delta Waterfowl.

Submissions pour in

The Victorian inquiry received more than 10,000 submissions, not all of them positive. Given there are 26,000 licensed Victorian duck and quail hunters, this number was in fact disappointing.

Our position made clear to inquiry

FGA representatives attended Select Committee hearings in person and presented to the panels with clarity and professionalism. At the time of preparing this report we do not know the outcome of either select committee inquiry. This has effectively tied our hands behind our backs for the past few months, resulting in a limbo status for some projects and a pause on some strategic plans. On a positive note, during this time we have formed some very strong ties with the Victorian Outdoor Recreation Advocacy Group headed up by the ‘big 4’ building unions and primarily the ETU. We are a founding member of this group and it offers some exciting avenues for us in dealing with government and relevant bureaucracy going forward.

Looking to the future

The outcome of the Select Committee recommendations will be far-reaching, and while I could hypothesize what

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

that outcome might be – such as training, refresher waterfowl identification tests, and hunting competency courses – there’s no doubt the organisation will need to pivot and embrace change and new ways of doing business to serve its members. We will watch nationwide with interest the emerging and scientifically substantiated data that will form the basis of seasons for 2024. The conditions on the east coast of Australia with back-to-back La Nina conditions has certainly provided habitat and the breeding season is currently in full swing with many knowledgeable and wise people forecasting a compounded breeding season perhaps positioned to produce record counts and numbers of waterfowl and quail. We have continued to lobby for members in all states and at the federal level politically. The fight in Victoria and South Australia will continue, however as always we will rely on members at grass roots level to make contact with their local MPs to pursue good outcomes for hunting. We have held several successful events and meetings liaising with politicians across the past 12 months, which is very important in representing our members in the best possible way.

Conservation work continues

Our conservation work has gathered pace, with multiple

projects reaching delivery or expansion, this includes nest box programs and work with Parks Victoria. FGA may roll this out in the coming year to all branches in a more formal and well-managed manner. Progression with various government groups in most states is ongoing as our members present a unique skill set for a myriad of hunting and conservation works, but unfortunately we will be at the mercy of the relevant inquiry outcomes.

National office to move to Connewarre

After some 25 years of the FGA office being located in Seymour, the board has decided to restructure and move the office to Connewarre Wetland Centre in Geelong. This move not only positions us in a key wetland project, it also allows easier access to Melbourne and a wider pool of staff. The move commenced in May and should be completed by October, just after our AGM.

Financial position improving

Financially the organisation has achieved a $350,000 surplus for the year after significant restructure and a full operating year of cost savings coming into effect, in line with forecasts I made in 2021-22. This was achieved with some strong decision-making, good strategy and diligence of oversight from the board. Combining this surplus with the previous year’s surplus will enable some projects to progress that have stalled this year due to

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

the Select Committee processes – namely development at Willowmavin signing off some key acquittal processes from government grants and also providing a home the Australian National Hunting archive. More importantly this gives the organisation a very strong base to pursue its goals around a self-insurance program to branches in an increasingly difficult area that branches have been struggling with. This is an undertaking that will require good decision-making and significant buy-in by branches.

Volunteers are our backbone

To the volunteers who give so much time and effort to branches, branch activity and the organisation I thank you and recognise your contribution. As I always remind everyone, this is meant to be fun; and, while what we do is serious, we should not lose sight of the fact that this is our heritage, our pastime, our culture and tradition that should be enjoyed. I look forward to another year of FGA success and achievement.

Danny Ryan

Field & Game Australia Board chairman

2022-23 FGA Financials Field & Game Australia announces a net operating profit of $398,031 for the 2022-23 financial year.

Field & Game Australia Inc.

ABN 79 042 436 123 Statement of Cash Flows for the year ended 30 June 2023 2023

2022

Receipts from customers and grants

1,719,398

1,284,327

Payments to suppliers and employees

(1,221,750)

(1,371,005)

Cash flows from operating activities:

Interest received

7,243

129

Other receipts - Rents Received

29,500

12,751

Net cash flows from/(used in) operating activities

534,391

(73,798)

Purchase of property, plant and equipment

(5,149)

(908)

Loan advanced

(24,633)

Net cashflows from investing activities

(29,782)

(908)

Repayment of borrowings

(19,033)

(20,598)

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

485,576

(95,304)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

950,770

1,046,074

1,436,396

950,770

Cashflows from investing activities

Cashflows from financing activities

NET OPERATING PROFIT

$398,031 FOR THE YEAR OF 2022-2023

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

Cash and cash equivalents at end of financial year

Field & Game Australia Inc.

FGA Financials (continued) ABN 79 042 436 123 Balance sheet for the year ended 30 June, 2023

2022

Advertising

5,866

25,630

Donations

40,969

1,173

Covid 19 Assistance

2023

2022

Asset

Grants operating

44,008

Interest received

7,244

129

860

16,799

Other revenue Management fees

Current assets 1,436,396

950,771

Accounts receivable and other debtors

218,113

265,973

Inventory

31,085

1,685,595

1,247,829

Total current assets

2023 Income

Field & Game Australia Inc.

Cash and cash equivalents

ABN 79 042 436 123

Income Statement for the year ended 30 June, 2023

16,364

Memberships

1,444,505

1,336,690

TOTAL OTHER INCOME

1,559,816

1,396,784

6,124

1,055

126,956

Trading Income Merchandise Scoring System National Carnival Income Target

Non-current assets Intangible Assets

Financial Assets

467,697

456,978

Property, plant, equipment

1,439,548

1,463,697

Total non-current assets

1,907,244

1,920,674

Total assets

3,592,839

3,168,503

Willowmavin

29,500

12,751

TOTAL TRADING INCOME

162,580

13,806

Merchandise

5,242

638

Scoring System

12,630

9,008

109,284

13,372

Direct Costs

Education Program Target Willowmavin TOTAL DIRECT COSTS

Liabilities Current liabilities Accounts payable and other payables

194,356

Employee provisions

52,760

52,707

Borrowings

9,450

256,567

236,770

Total current liabilities

174,612

Employee provisions Borrowings Total non-current liabilities Total liabilities Net assets

9,918 32,947

11,418 267,985 3,324,855

42,865 279,635

257,909

(14,820)

1,587,725

1,381,964

Advocacy

59,272

56,690

Auditors Remuneration - Fees

8,000

6,000

Bank Merchant Fees

5,433

5,025

5,331

6,080

3,736

Expenses

Board Expenses & Governance Branding & Community Promotion

11,000

Employment Expense

40,570

909

6,093

6,264

518,513

634,330

Filing Fees

253

188

Insurance

152,227

150,608

453 27,500

2,888,867

Licences, Registrations, Permits

17,955

1,750

Motor Vehicle Expenses

14,674

5,546

161,910

211,308

11,000

Membership Communication and Publications Office Expenses

17,905

19,380

Postage, Printing & Stationery

36,476

21,159

Professional Fees

30,282

29,951

Rent

20,586

24,374

Repairs & Maintenance

1,806

Security

Sundry

54,922

Telephone

7,551

9,309

Travel/Accommodation

16,616

10,333

TOTAL EXPENDITURE

1,189,694

1,321,915

398,031

60,050

Retained surplus

3,313,855

2,877,867

Net worth

3,324,855

2,888,867

The income statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

Electricity & Gas

469

29,151

24,122

The balance sheet should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes

Donations/Sponsorship/Trophies

587

Legal

Equity Asset Revaluation Reserve

5,608 28,626

TOTAL NET INCOME

Depreciation & Amortisation

11,418

7,515 134,671

Net Trading Income

Computer Expense

Non-current liabilities

Interest

Surplus/(Deficit) for the year

49,835

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

WET Trust Report 2022-23 In February 2023 the Victorian Government announced that a Legislative Council Select Committee would be set up to inquire into Victoria’s recreational native bird hunting arrangements. The final report is due to be tabled on August 31, 2023, and the Victorian Government will have six months to make a decision on whether or not to ban recreational native bird hunting in Victoria. If the government decides to ban duck and quail hunting, this could have a profound impact on volunteer support for groups such as the WET Trust. It is to be hoped that the contribution of hunters is recognised when these matters are being considered, as there is a long history of hunters playing a leading role in wetlands conservation including the wonderful Heart Morass, the Connewarre Hospital Swamp, and the purchase of almost 200 State Game Reserves. With more than 50 per cent of wetlands in Victoria on private property, the support of many landholders with conservation is equally impressive. Significantly, the Select Committee visited the Hospital swamps for the 2023 duck season opening and witnessed firsthand how hunters behaved responsibly and how protesters tried to interfere. After hunters had bagged out, the committee members met in Connewarre Wetland Centre and were fully briefed by Trent Leen on all aspects of the community work done by Field & Game and the WET Trust. The committee members also travelled to the Heart Morass near Sale and were given a tour of the wetland, with Gary Howard OAM explaining in detail what had been achieved by Field & Game members and the local community groups, generously assisted by the Hugh D.T. Williamson Foundation and supported by West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority. Gary made it clear to the committee members that if duck hunting is banned the effect on volunteers would be devastating and their work would dry up immediately. A similar parliamentary inquiry is in progress in South Australia.

Heart Morass Gary Howard, a driver of the purchase of the Heart Morass, continues to do a remarkable job with the management of this area. The wetland is full after two floods in the past 12 months, and the birdlife is quite remarkable.

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2020-21

The flood events did necessitate the need for significant repairs to the tracks. The track work has been completed, however weed control is an ongoing chore. It can’t be said often enough David Hawker that the Heart Morass project of over 3000 acres of pristine wetland is the result of wonderful co-operation between Field & Game Australia, the Hugh D.T. Williamson Foundation, West Gippsland CMA, Parks Victoria and local community and Traditional Owner groups. In upcoming and ongoing projects, the Hugh D.T. Williamson Foundation has offered to fund further tree planting, while the PFAS contamination from the Defence Base at Sale is being further investigated. A new electronic brochure on the Heart Morass is due to be available in late 2023.

Lake Buloke While Lake Buloke had a good flood event during the past year, unfortunately it was closed for hunting almost as soon as the 2023 season opened due to the presence of protected species. A farmer neighbour is cropping the attached land, and with a good crop we hope to receive a useful share of the proceeds.

Bug Blitz Since the inception of Bug Blitz, Dr John Caldow has run this brilliant program (now named Exploring Sustainable Hunting), with considerable assistance from the Hugh D.T. Williamson Foundation through Bug Blitz Trust, the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions, Field & Game Australia and the WET Trust. This year’s program at the Heart Morass and the Connewarre Wetlands Centre included nearly 800 students and more than 100 adults. “Unofficial surveys of student views, which I undertook at a few of the events at the HMRP, indicated 95 per cent of students viewed duck hunting as sustainable and they agreed that hunting plays a significant role in controlling feral pests,” John said.

The Australian National Hunting Archive With the plan to move the Field & Game Australia national office to Connewarre Wetland Centre, a new purpose-built building is being added to house Max Downes’ marvellous collection of hunting history and records, much of which is extremely rare. This will allow the collection to be moved from storage, have better care and be more accessible. A new Australian National Hunting Archive Steering Committee is to be formed to supervise this project. World Wetlands Day World Wetlands Day will be a feature again at Connewarre >>

Wetland Centre Open Day on Sunday 11 February 2024. In the meantime, the WET Trust website is being rebuilt and will include a “Donate Now” button. Donations to the WET Trust are tax deductible.

Looking to the future A challenge facing the WET Trust is how much we should involve ourselves in wider issues with similar interests both locally and internationally.

research on waterbirds through Deakin University. Is there scope to tap into similar international work? Glenn Falla, the conservation and hunting manager at Field & Game Australia, is tireless in the work he does for the WET Trust, and I thank him on behalf of all members for his tremendous efforts.

David Hawker AO

Wetlands Environmental Trust chairman

For example, Professor Marcel Klaassen does some wonderful

Wetlands Environmental Taskforce Financials

Field & Game Australia Inc.

As trustee for Wetlands Environmental Teskforce Trust ABN 42 150 070 738 Income statement for the year ended 30 June 2023 2023

The balance sheet should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes

Field & Game Australia Inc.

Income

As trustee for Wetlands Environmental Taskforce Trust ABN 42 150 070 738 Balance sheet for the year ended 30 June 2023

Revenue

2023

2022

Current Assets 257,586

32,607

21,208

Australian National Hunting Archive

15,545

19,801

Administration expenses

16,933

19,954

Wetlands management

20,506

12,657

Depreciation and amortisation expenses

4,933

6,410

Audit Fees

1,000

Total Expenditure

58,917

59,822

Surplus/(deficit) for the year

(26,310)

( 38,614)

Expense

Assets Cash and Cash equivalents

2022

243,838

Trade and other receivables

63,835

59,290

Total Current Assets

321,421

303,128

Property, plant, equipment

2,537,115

2,540,866

Trade and other receivables

43,087

98,560

Total Non-Current Assets

2,580,202

2,639,426

Total assets

2,901,623

2,942,554

Trade creditors & other payables

14,882

54,137

Total current liabilities

18,402

54,137

Non-current assets

Liabilities Current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

The income statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes

Field & Game Australia Inc.

As trustee for Wetlands Environmental Taskforce Trust ABN 42 150 070 738 Statement of cash flows for year ended 30 June 2023 2023

2022

Receipts from donations, bequests and grants

76,309

59,165

(66,403)

(38,866)

Cash flows from operating activities:

Borrowings

467,697

443,063

Payments to suppliers and employees

Total non-current liabilities

467,697

443,063

Interest received

2,681

7,684

482,579

497,200

Net cash flows from/(used in) operating activities

12,567

27,983

2,419,044

2,445,354

Payment for property, plant and equipment

(1,182)

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

13,749

27,983

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

243,847

215,864

Cash and cash equivalents at end of financial year

257,596

243,847

Total liabilities

Cashflows from investing activities: Net assets Equity Current Year Earnings Retained surplus

(26,310)

(38,164)

2,445,344

2,483,958

Settled Sum Net worth 12

2,419,044

2,445,354

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

Branch and Member awards Since 1958, Field & Game Australia members have been providing outstanding services to the association that have had a positive impact hunting, conservation, and clay target shooting. Each year we ask our branch executives to look upon their members and consider nominating them for one of the association’s select awards to express our appreciation for what they do. This in 2021-22 the board was pleased to receive several nominations for various awards.

Blue Wing Trophy This award recognises the branch that achieves the most significant outcomes for wetlands conservation, and this year FGA congratulates Sale Field & Game for its fantastic work. The branch is exceptionally active and completes a plethora of activities annually including the construction, installation and maintenance of nest boxes. Sale branch member also undertake water monitoring and quality testing, complete bird counts on more than 40 wetlands each year, and work alongside parks and catchment management authorities to achieve outcomes for the environment.

Deb Meester proudly accepts the Blue Wing Trophy on behalf of Sale Field & Game.

"The leadership and dedication Dr Hugh Martin Medal Trent has shown within our The medal is named in honour of Dr Hugh Martin, whose vision and organisational skills cemented the VFGA – as it was in 1958 branch has been nothing short – as Australia›s leading wetlands conservation organisation. The leadershp and enthusiasm showed by Dr Martin brought of exceptional ... if there was together Victorian waterfowl hunters in a way that delivered direct conservation benefits to wetland areas right across the state. more like Trent among us, The medal recognises outstanding contributions in the leadership, planning and administration of affairs made by members hunting and conservation would at a branch or regional level. This may include exceptional contributions to the conservation, hunting or clay target strands of be in a much better place." FGA or to the broader scope of information, community liaison or membership services and attraction. – Geelong Field & Game This year, the FGA board was pleased to award this medal to Geelong branch member Trent Leen.

Trent’s nomination was pages long – his achievements in the area of conservation are truly impressive and number too many to go into all the detail here, however his involvement includes: Hospital Swamps and Reedy Lake clean-up days; a member of the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority steering committee; construction of the FGA Beretta Conservation Trail and Connewarre wetland centre; a driver and organiser of Bug Blitz days at Connewarre Wetland Centre; and volunteer work alongside Professor Marcel Klassen from Deakin University in duck research programs. Trent has also been instrumental in Geelong’s Hen House program – which is still growing with the support of other branches across Victoria and will soon kick off in other states as well. Trent’s contributions to science have also been outstanding. FGA is constantly stating it wants to rely on data and science to set season boundaries and inform decision-making – but without volunteers like Trent, that research and science wouldn’t exist. It is fantastic to see hunters and scientists able to work together to benefit our wildlife. To use the words from his nomination: “The leadership and dedication Trent has shown within our branch has been nothing short of exceptional, and I firmly believe if there was more like Trent among us, hunting and conservation would be in a much better place.” 13

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

The winner of this year’s Dr Hugh Martin Medal is Trent Leen from Geelong Field & Game, pictured here with FGA chairman Danny Ryan.

Member Service Awards

Two deserving members have been announced as winners of the FGA Member Service Award. This certificate is presented by the FGA Board to members who have demonstrated exceptional support for the aims of FGA Membership. A nominee for this award needs to have shown a lengthy commitment to service at one or more branches over an extended period and has earned clear respect and gratitude from fellow branch members for the work undertaken. The first Member Service Award announced this year went to Geelong Field & Game member Luke Farmer. Luke has always been one of the first to put up his hand and be part of what is happening around the Geelong club and is without doubt a true volunteer. Luke has been at the forefront of volunteering, not only for Geelong Field & Game but also for Field & Game Australia. He has contributed much to conservation and to the wetlands of Victoria; has worked with Deakin University alongside Professor Marcel Klassen and his students in trapping and releasing ducks at each of our trapping and research sites including Connewarre Wetland Centre, where he has been an active volunteer since its formation; and he has been on conservation working bees within the state from Sale to Echuca and will rarely miss a working bee for the Geelong branch.

Luke Farmer accepts a Member Service Award from FGA chairman Danny Ryan.

And, last but certainly not least, a Member Service Award this year was awarded to Geoffrey Smith of the Sale branch. Geoffrey has been a member of the Sale branch for more than 30 years. He is a long-time and consistent contributor to branch activities including working bees, the nest box program, tree planting, fox drives, school shoots and so much more. A highly respected member at the Sale branch, Geoffrey has held the position of Membership Officer for the past nine years, and the branch credits him for bringing it to the point of having the largest membership of any FGA branch.

Sale Field & Game member Geoffrey Smith accepts his Member Service Award from then branch president John Hirt.

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

Hunting and game management report Without a doubt the 2022-23 financial year has been one of the most challenging for our organisation in this area of our business. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen such important subjects as the Interim Harvest Management Model and the eventual Adaptive Harvest Management Model progress slower than expected; the replacement of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act delayed; and the sunset review of the Wildlife Act put back a second time. But the biggest focus and greatest consumer of resources, time and money has been the review of game bird hunting arrangements concurrently in South Australia and Victoria. Meanwhile, all conservation groups are struggling with a lack of volunteers as the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 mean people have become less likely to socialise and more self-focused on where they spend their spare time. Having said that, our stakeholders and partners have expanded, and we regularly hold events in conjunction with groups such as: The Hugh D.T. Williamson Foundation, Bug Blitz Trust, Conservation Volunteers Australia, Southern Ocean Environmental Link, Magpie Ecology, Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project, Berry Street, Donald Men’s Shed, Bendigo District Aboriginal Co Operative, Dja Dja Wurrung people, Yorta Yorta people, Outdoor Recreation Advocacy Group, Dr Michael O’Kane, various Landcare and Catchment Management Authority groups, Victorian Environmental Water Holders and other government departments. As well, our involvement in Enhancing Northern Waterways Advisory Group, Victorian Waterways Management Plans, Sustainable Hunting Action Plan 2.0 and with various Indigenous activities continues to broaden our footprint. Feature articles in major newspapers such as The Age this financial year added some balance to the argument for the ethical and sustainable hunting of game birds to continue into the future. Collaboration with Safari Club International, Ducks Unlimited, Delta Waterfowl, Bemidji State University, Getducks.com and Blood Origins has seen our international audience grow. An overview of the various duck hunting seasons in Australia reveals a mixture of situations.

Old habits are hard to change, and the newer practices considered more appropriate are things that take time to learn and master. Even completely dead birds that are picked up are swung by some as a non-intentional act of muscle memory, as hunters have used this practice for many decades. Education is key to changes in expected practices, and in South Australia the process certainly hasn’t been as successful as it has in Victoria.

South Australia, though, had some issues. The state received an eight-bird bag limit and standard season length with reasonable prospects for hunters, but this was overshadowed by a cloud of higher scrutiny and the growing presence of activists from various states working cohesively to apply a stringent focus on “humane dispatch” of wounded birds.

Photography and videography are the new tools of the activists in South Australia and there was plenty of footage submitted for review this past season. Hunters should expect that even the trees have eyes, and every action they take will be recorded and used against them ¬– even if it is a misrepresentation of their actual actions or intentions. Hunters need to arm themselves with a thorough knowledge of the law and the expected behaviours – and stick to them regardless of whether or not anyone may be watching.

The media jumped on board, as would be expected, to highlight the subject of “windmilling” birds to perform cervical dislocation – a practice that had for many years been hidden away in

This year’s quail seasons in all states and territories except Victoria remained unchanged and were enjoyed by many with very positive reports. >>

The Northern Territory and Tasmania enjoyed a standard season with really “nothing to see here”.

documentation that was not easy to access or understand.

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

The duck hunting season in Victoria was another story altogether. With no real justification, data or facts to support their decision, our ministers opted to completely ignore the science and even the advice of their own departments – and took a precautionary approach in announcing a 35-day season between April 26 and May 30 with an 8am start every day, and a four-bird daily bag limit with no blue-winged shoveller or hardhead allowed in the bag. Some of our older members will remember the non-alcoholic drink called Claytons ¬– “the drink you have when you’re not having a drink”. This was the season we had, when we didn’t really have a season. Perhaps signalling what may be to come, some would say. So, here we are at the end of the financial year. Still engaged in the parliamentary review of the game bird hunting seasons in two states, with Victoria likely to deliver a recommendation at the end of August which may be enacted upon or completely ignored by the relevant ministers. South Australia has extended its deliberations until late in the year or perhaps even into 2024. The quail season in Victoria was tied up with the shortened length and ridiculous 8am start of the duck season, making an absolute mockery of the science and the quail abundance studies that continue to show promising data. That’s certainly one way to skew the hunter participation figures and ensure they were down on that of previous years. Given the COVID-19 restrictions and the heavily modified season conditions of recent years, any data is going to be impacted – and the cries of FGA in the past for leaving seasonal conditions consistent for a minimum of five years to gain a standardised data set have been forgotten. For those who made a concerted effort to hunt this season, the rewards were great; and, at the end of the day, doing what we all love for any amount of time is valued extremely highly. Game management Developments in 2022-23 included: • The development of a Waterfowl Wounding Reduction Action Plan, which has been with the ministers since September 2022 and hasn’t even been responded to in public. With quail and deer wounding reduction action plans still to be developed, time is running out fast and the working group decided to turn their hands to deer prior to quail until the outcome of the game bird hunting season inquiry was known. • Further modification to the Interim Harvest Management (IHM) to eventually become the Adaptive Harvest Management Model (AHMM). • Quail abundance studies continue in Victoria and the data is looking positive. • Further trapping and X-raying of ducks continues to gain data on surviving birds that carry shot. Trapping sites were extended and geographically more of Victoria was represented than previously. • WET hen houses have now reached a total of over 300 in the wetlands and a Parks Victoria Letter of Collaboration and

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

subsequent population of the ParkConnect system with our volunteers supports the installation of several hundred in state game reserves and the like in coming years. This work has begun, and some grants have been received to assist. This work continues to be accompanied by some relogging, habitat replenishment, regeneration and improvement of access tracks, along with rubbish removal, including tyres and tree guards that have been outgrown. Working With Children Checks continue to expand and it’s looking like DEECA may require a letter of collaboration with FGA for future programs also. We focus heavily on our status as an RTO and engaging in hunting activities on Parks Victoria and DEECA-controlled land in the future to support our hen house programs. • Hard head (or white-eyed duck) status under IUCN was altered and subsequently challenged, without response. • Wildlife Game Regulations 2012 passed the sunset period with a little progress only. Expert advisory panels were formed, submissions from stakeholders were considered and then it stalled and was put off for a further 12 months. • Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (POCTA) Act – again this subject was pushed back a further twelve months and eventually will be referred to as the Animal Welfare Act. • The Southeast Coastal Lakes of South Australia gained much attention as we reached phase two. Community consultation continues with the Department of Environment and Water and the news that Wyss Foundation was commissioned to complete the community consultation process has raised some questions. Its own mission statement refers to 30 per cent of land around the world being under conservation status by 2030.

Glenn Falla

Field & Game Australia hunting and conservation manager

Pest control and other volunteer hours reports Due to enhanced data collection and more robust reporting we are pleased to present a more thorough report for the 2022-23 financial year that focuses on more than just our vermin control efforts. Field & Game Australia members are also involved in other projects that benefit the environment and the native species that depend on it for their survival. As such, we are now also reporting on the following activities: PARK CONNECT PROJECTS 2022-23 Number of projects 11 Number of people involved

Volunteer hours

278

$ value of volunteer hours

12,510

NESTING BOX / HEN HOUSE / CONSERVATION PROJECTS 2022-23 Number of projects 18 Number of people involved

Volunteer hours

688

$ value of 30,960 volunteer hours

FIELD & GAME PEST ANIMAL CONTROL REPORTS 2022-23 SPECIES TAKEN

Total manhours

100

Expenses Value of total man-hours @ $45/hour plus expenses

Fox

Feral cat

Rabbit

Ballarat

360

Ballarat

$150

$1455

Ballarat

450

150

300

750

1050

$1000

$48250

Benalla

117

100

250

350

$3,500

$19250

Clunes

295

Clunes

126

Cranbourne

Wild dog

Feral goat

Other pest species

1 1

500

Donald

Dunolly

Geelong

Grampians

4 300

Feral pig

78 400

Keith

21 20

$200

$4700

$50

$545

401

203

257

$5,000

$16565

200

260

$3,000

$14700

$300

$2145

500 2

100

102

n/s

$4590

$10

$685

$440

$2600

400

n/s

$3,000

$3000

Pine Grove

$100

$595

Port Phillip

250

320

570

$450

$26100

Sale

287

170

171

$40

$7735

Seymour

$200

$515

$30

$435

650

720

1370

$7200

$68850

$200

$2225

170

220

$2,500

$12400

1536

3130

4666

$ 27,370

$ 237,340

Swan Hill Swan Hill

10 140

Swan Hill

Travel time, Hunting total hours time (n/s = not (total supplied) hours)

Field & Game Australia Branch

6 4

Timboon

130

TOTALS

2063

180 2114

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

1023

Membership report to March 31, 2023 The membership year ending March 31, 2023, was an encouraging one. Despite looming inquiries into duck hunting arrangements in Victoria and South Australia, members continued to value being part of the Field & Game Australia Community – and membership numbers took only the slightest of hits, totalling just eight

members fewer than at the same time the previous year. Encouragingly, FGA’s female membership has grown, with a small 0.4 per cent increase. The membership renewals system itself has seen another increase in digital renewals, with more than 9000 memberships being renewed and paid online.

Branch membership totals as at March 31, 2023 Ararat & Stawell Field & Game 140 Bairnsdale Field & Game 447 Ballarat Field & Game 660 Balranald Field & Game 51 Barmera Moorook Field & Game 146 Bar-rook Sporting Field & Game 224 Benalla Field & Game 343 Bendigo Field & Game 458 Broome Field & Game 3 Burdekin Field & Game 7 Canberra International Clay Target Club 101 Capricornia Field & Game 33 Casterton Field & Game 95 Clunes Field & Game 207 Cobram Field & Game 158 Colac Field & Game 294 Coleraine Field & Game 157 Cranbourne Field & Game 332 Darlington Field & Game 52 Deniliquin Field & Game 105 Donald Field & Game 123 Dorset Field & Game 146 Dunolly Field & Game 85 Echuca-Moama Field & Game 243 Frankston Field & Game 757 Furneaux Field & Game 111 Geelong Field & Game 781 Goulburn Workers Field & Game 43 Grampians Field & Game 84 Hillston Field & Game 0 Huon Field & Game 139 18

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23

Keith Field & Game Kilmore Field & Game Kingston S.E. Field & Game Kyabram Field & Game Mallacoota Field & Game MCC Clay Target Club Metropolitan Field & Game Minyip Field & Game Moe Field & Game Mornington Field & Game Morwell Field & Game Mt Wycheproof Field & Game Natimuk Field & Game Northern Territory Field & Game Nugent Field & Game Orbost Field & Game Pine Grove Field & Game Port Phillip Field & Game Portland Heywood Field & Game Queensland Field & Game Riverland Field & Game Rushworth Field & Game Rutherglen Field & Game Sale Field & Game Seymour Field & Game Shepparton Field & Game South East Field & Game South Gippsland Field & Game Sunraysia Field & Game Swan Hill Field & Game Tambo Valley Field & Game

72 430 73 142 38 102 595 123 323 268 306 95 276 304 22 60 167 758 81 106 100 63 78 1042 683 442 62 157 295 198 12

Timboon Field & Game Traralgon Field & Game Wagga Wagga Field & Game Waikerie Field & Game Warrnambool Field & Game Westernport Field & Game Wodonga-Albury Field & Game Yarra Valley Field & Game

93 327 138 16 182 251 303 298

Total members

15,606

Male/female percentages  Male 88.8%  Female 11.1%

Clay target participation report Branch name

Open

Veterans

Ladies

Juniors

Participants

Targets

FGA

602

745

101,490

Ararat-Stawell FGA

644

140

109

1,046

82,413

Bairnsdale FGA

491

769

54,384

Ballarat FGA

1,179

166

1,651

139,916

Balranald FGA

114

10,500

Bar-rook FGA

558

754

59,969

Benalla FGA

739

963

74,950

Bendigo FGA

1,116

150

1,438

118,270

Canberra FGA

121

11,275

Casterton FGA

284

431

36,125

Clunes FGA

1,025

165

1,413

142,975

Cobram FGA

574

730

61,050

Colac FGA

735

109

1,033

77,525

Coleraine FGA

306

430

42,750

Cranbourne FGA

773

974

75,225

Deni FGA

321

449

34,675

Donald FGA

545

773

56,525

Dorset FGA

479

101

648

66,975

Dunolly FGA

199

337

23,663

Echuca-Moama FGA

123

176

13,050

Frankston FGA

726

912

67,800

Furneaux FGA

147

169

14,825

Geelong FGA

450

605

50,250

Grampians FGA

501

707

51,300

Keith FGA

199

250

19,420

Kilmore FGA

972

1,177

87,700

Kingston SE FGA

205

303

24,215

Kyabram FGA

150

188

16,650

Metro FGA

807

1,062

80,700

Minyip FGA

543

740

52,109

Moe FGA

784

111

1,081

91,550

Morwell FGA

748

1,011

75,975

Mt Wycheproof FGA

341

504

37,775

Natimuk FGA

907

144

104

1,355

99,756

NT FGA

412

502

47,525

Pinegrove FGA

939

108

1,233

123,089

Port Phillip FGA

1,124

142

102

1,441

120,523

Portland FGA

103

191

14,025

Riverland FGA

196

251

21,390

Rutherglen FGA

263

347

25,650

Sale FGA

1,368

117

101

1,814

94,210

Seymour FGA

1,130

104

1,414

117,675

Shepparton FGA

471

610

52,675

Sunraysia FGA

1,082

103

1,375

95,942

Swan Hill FGA

303

468

32,000

Tambo FGA

136

192

12,950

Timboon FGA

456

595

49,275

Traralgon FGA

484

634

53,155

Wagga Wagga FGA

423

494

38,112

Warrnambool FGA

452

624

60,950

Westernport FGA

819

1,071

93,025

Wodonga/Albury FGA

630

881

77,803

Yarra Valley FGA

740

924

74,000

29,885

3,516

2,333

1,656

794

1,936

40,120

3,257,704

TOTAL

Please note: Data sourced from My Clubs My Scores. Local club data may differ. 19

Sub-juniors Clays only

FIELD & GAME AUSTRALIA | Annual Report 2022-23