What is Gamecon?
Gamecon (Vic) is the peak hunting body representing organisations involved with field sports and related flora and fauna interests in Victoria. In an environment where governing bodies are whittling away at the opportunities for us to participate in the sports and pastimes that we hold dear we must defend our interests or they will be lost forever. Gamecon (Vic) is the avenue through which we can strike back against the vocal minorities.
Put simply, we aim to be one of the largest lobby groups that Victoria has ever seen, defending, promoting and developing your sport. Gamecon (Vic) will represent fishermen, deer hunters, dog breeders, duck hunters, skin divers, bow hunters, bush walkers, pest controllers, prospectors and the list goes on. But most importantly we are all standing together under one banner, supporting each others cause.
How did Gamecon (Vic) come about?
In mid 2000, the Department of Natural Resources & Environment's impending Regulatory Impact Statement on game regulations, prompted the Safari Club International (Victorian Chapter) to assemble representatives from a range of hunting organisations, and bring before them two guests speakers from the United States. From this meeting it became obvious that some form of partnership between clubs is necessary if hunters are to keep their sport. John Mumford, Chairman of Gamecon (Aust), was at that meeting and it appeared that a suitable model for such a group was already in place in NSW. With the enthusiasm of Victoria's hunting fraternity and John's eagerness to help, several follow-up meetings ensued. Gamecon (Vic) then held its inaugural meeting on 9th December 2000.
How does Gamecon benefit members?
Large or small, all organisations have equal representation, and issues affecting any group may be tabled at the general meetings. Information and encouragement are shared freely between member groups, something not seen before in Victoria. Expressing this level of unity, we can send a clear message to those who would jeopardize our sport that we will not be ignored.
What can you do?
Firstly spread the word about Gamecon, who we are, and what we do. Tell your friends, family and colleagues; awareness in the community will strengthen our reputation. If you're a member of a club that should be a member of Gamecon (Vic) and isn't, find out why and help them to become a member. If you participate in field sports, and are not a member of a Gamecon (Vic) affiliated club, join one today. Finally, funding is essential in order to run a worthwhile organisation. So please support any of Gamecon's fundraising efforts; it's for the good of your sport, you could also become involved - or become an Associate Member too.
What are the core objectives of GAMECON VIC?
In 2004 the members of GAMECON VIC voted to adopt nine objectives for our organization. These nine objectives are:
- To represent the interests of participating Members by providing a means of representation, communication, coordination, dispute resolution and action.
- To be recognised by Government and the wider community as the peak body in Victoria representing hunting and game management organizations.
- To promote the positive benefits of traditional culture and heritage values of hunting and fishing in relation to the sustainable use of fauna and flora.
- To promote scientific research relevant to issues related to game management, conservation and the sustainable use of wildlife.
- To promote community education in the appropriate use of flora, land, wildlife and waterways.
- To adopt and promote appropriate codes of ethics and conduct in all areas affecting wild game, hunting and fishing.
- To seek representation on appropriate Government bodies and forums, affiliate with other organizations to develop, expand and cooperatively promote common interest projects.
- To affiliate with other umbrella organizations with similar objectives.
- To support the continued access to public lands for recreational hunting and fishing where appropriate.