Kangaroo
numbers appear to have increased because of the dry conditions
and the creation of 'kangaroo lawns' by slashing of road side
verges. Any attempt to commercialise the kangaroo is doomed
to failure because of the low numbers and the wide distribution
of those low numbers.
It is common
knowledge that shooters are often irresponsible, as is evidenced
by the damage to road signs and to private property, particularly
water tanks. There is also the inherent danger of shooters using
high powered rifles in closely settled areas. If there is injury
or death caused by the increased use of such weapons, the Government
must accept the blame.
Abattoirs
for domestic animals have the highest standards but kangaroos
were declared Game in 1989 because they could not meet these
high standards. Further, kangaroos do not destroy native vegetation,
the soft padded feet and long tail of the kangaroo a re integral
to the ecological health of the land as regenerators of native
grasses.
The kangaroo
killing industry in other States and Territories has resulted
in great environmental disturbance and has brought about much
criticism of Australia's approach to the ICONIC kangaroo in
most overseas countries.
Sincerely,
Maryland
Wilson
President
Member of
the NSW Kangaroo Management Advisory Committee
03 59 788 570
