Podcast Summary: Blood Origins - Episode 560: Robert Borsak || Hunting In The Australian Government

Overview

In Episode 560 of the Blood Origins podcast, host Mike Axelrod welcomes Robert Borsak, a prominent figure in Australian politics and leader of the Shooters, Fishers, and Farmers (SFF) Party in New South Wales (NSW). The episode delves deep into the challenges and intricacies of hunting within the Australian governmental framework, exploring how hunting serves as a vital tool for wildlife management and conservation.

Introduction to Robert Borsak

Robert Borsak reappears on the Blood Origins podcast, bringing valuable insights from his role in the NSW government. As the leader of the SFF Party, Borsak represents the interests of rural communities, advocating for the rights of shooters, fishers, farmers, and hunters. His participation underscores the podcast's mission to shed light on the realities of hunting beyond prevalent misconceptions.

Notable Quote:

"There's a perception around who hunters are, what we're supposed to be... a feminist that works for a non-profit that is a hunter... is likely not the thing that people think about when it comes to a hunter."
— 02:47, Robert Borsak

Challenges Facing Hunting in New South Wales

Borsak outlines the political landscape in NSW, highlighting a significant push from opposing factions aiming to restrict firearms and recreational hunting. Over the past 14 years, there has been a concerted effort, particularly by the Labor government, to curb hunting and fishing activities. Key issues include:

• Legislative Restrictions: Attempts to ban or heavily regulate firearms and hunting practices.
• Invasive Species Management: Debates surrounding the management of non-native species like deer and horses, which have significant ecological and agricultural impacts.

Notable Quote:

"If our party hadn't been in the parliament, we would have lost virtually all of our hunting. We would have lost all our firearms, we would have lost all our recreational fishing years ago."
— 08:24, Robert Borsak

Invasive Wildlife and Conservation

A substantial portion of the discussion centers on managing invasive species, particularly horses in Kosciuszko National Park. Borsak criticizes the current government approach, which he argues is ineffective and detrimental to both the environment and hunting communities.

• Kosciuszko National Park: An estimated 18,000 to 26,000 horses have inhabited the park, causing ecological damage. Previous efforts to cull the population were hampered by legislative bans and public outcry, leading to a temporary halt in management activities.

Notable Quote:

"What we're saying is there is a solution... it's just a matter of having the political ability to get represented."
— 25:27, Robert Borsak

Proposed Solutions for Effective Wildlife Management

Borsak proposes an integrated approach wherein licensed hunters play a pivotal role in managing invasive species. Key elements of his proposed solution include:

• Grassroots Hunting Programs: Encouraging hunters to obtain permissions on private lands to control wildlife populations effectively.
• Use of Technology: Leveraging thermal gear and modern hunting equipment to increase efficiency and reduce waste.
• Policy Amendments: Advocating for legislative changes to legalize suppressors (silencers) for hunting purposes, enhancing hunters' capabilities.

Notable Quote:

"If you get a license and you become a conservation hunter, then what you should be able to do is use that as an application to... issue you with a suppressor."
— 29:20, Robert Borsak

Political Dynamics and Future Outlook

The conversation delves into the broader political dynamics affecting hunting and conservation in NSW. Borsak discusses the challenges posed by minor parties and independent members who often shift allegiances, impacting the stability and effectiveness of conservation policies.

• Minority Government Challenges: The current Labor government operates as a minority in both the lower and upper houses, relying on informal coalitions and independent support, which complicates legislative processes.
• Future Initiatives: Borsak remains optimistic about potential policy wins, such as introducing bounties for invasive species and expanding public land hunting opportunities.

Notable Quote:

"We've been fighting every step of the way... but the reality is the numbers are always against us, always against us."
— 38:57, Robert Borsak

Economic Impact of Hunting and Fishing

Highlighting the economic significance, Borsak emphasizes that recreational hunting and fishing contribute substantially to the Australian economy, rivaling major sectors like agriculture.

• Economic Contribution: Combined, hunting and fishing generate approximately AUD 505 million annually, injecting significant capital into rural communities.
• Conservation Funding: Revenues from hunting activities are reinvested into conservation projects, ensuring sustainable wildlife management.

Notable Quote:

"When you combine recreational fishing and hunting... they're the biggest, maybe just a slightly behind the full count of agriculture."
— 44:37, Robert Borsak

Closing Remarks and Future Prospects

In conclusion, Borsak reiterates the necessity of political representation for hunting communities to safeguard their rights and promote effective conservation strategies. He remains committed to expanding hunting opportunities and influencing policy to support sustainable wildlife management.

Notable Quote:

"Unless you're represented politically and you've got a voice and you can make a difference, you will lose it all."
— 45:55, Robert Borsak

Conclusion

Episode 560 of Blood Origins offers a comprehensive exploration of the intersection between hunting and government policy in New South Wales, Australia. Through Robert Borsak's insights, listeners gain an understanding of the political challenges, proposed solutions, and the vital role hunting plays in conservation. The episode underscores the importance of advocacy and representation in ensuring that hunting remains a sustainable and economically beneficial practice.

Key Takeaways

• Hunting as Conservation: Effective wildlife management relies heavily on active hunting practices, especially for invasive species.
• Political Advocacy: Representation in government is crucial for maintaining and advancing hunting rights and conservation efforts.
• Economic Significance: Hunting and fishing contribute significantly to the economy and support rural communities.
• Policy Reforms: Legislative changes, such as the legalization of suppressors, can enhance hunting efficiency and conservation outcomes.

For those interested in the future of hunting and conservation in Australia, Episode 560 provides invaluable perspectives from one of the leading voices advocating for sustainable practices and policy reform.