Australian Deer

EP:032 - The Roar - Victoria’s Firearm Review: The Government Response

Paul Gray and Sean Kilkenny unpack Victoria’s Firearms Review response, highlighting the big outcomes — no ownership caps and no reclassification of existing firearms — and the government’s planned measures for emerging technologies, citizenship eligibility (with New Zealand exemptions), stronger penalties, and improved intelligence and data-sharing.They explain short-term impacts for hunters and licence holders, what recommendations will require more work, and what to watch next on licensing, permit fees and public engagement to protect recreational hunting.

Ep:031 The Roar: May 2026

Welcome to The Raw on the Australian Deer Podcast. In this episode hosts Paul Gray and Sean Kilkenny discuss a major Victorian government budget win to reform processing of wild-shot venison, including a two-year plan to create dual-license butchers; cover AgFest in Tasmania and the launch of SHOT amid ongoing firearm law debates; and wrap up with updates on Victorian firearm reforms, local hunting stories, and Hunter Education milestones.

Ep:030 The Roar: April 2026

Hosts Paul Gray and Sean Kilkenny discuss the appointment of ADA board member Naomi Jackson to the NSW Game and Pest Board, the status of the Victorian firearms laws review and recent cabinet reshuffle, and highlight the success of the new "Day 100" YouTube release.The episode covers implications for recreational hunters, government engagement, and upcoming developments for the Australian Deer Association and outdoor recreation community.

Ep:029 The Roar: March 2026

Paul and Sean discuss major public land wins in Tasmania and Victoria that open new opportunities for recreational deer hunting, the role of volunteers like Scott Freeman, and how these successes can be replicated in other states.They review proposed Tasmanian firearm law changes including reclassification, a 1.5x buyback formula, increased vetting and citizenship requirements, plus ongoing reviews in Victoria and the wider impact and uncertainty facing the firearm industry.The episode finishes on a positive note with a recap of the Mansfield Hunting & Fishing Expo, community engagement, and a preview of new content coming in April.

Ep:028 The Roar: February 2026

In this episode of The Roar, host Paul Gray chats with Sean Kilkenny from the ADA about the opening of Snowy River and Errinundra National Parks to seasonal recreational deer hunting, updates on the Victorian firearms law review, and the launch of a new recreational hunting economic survey.
They also cover the ADA membership drive and a near-sold-out Victorian Hunter Education course, plus how hunters can access maps, licenses and share their stories.

Ep:027 The Roar: January 2026

The episode discusses the NSW government’s rushed firearm laws after the Bondi attack, implications for hunters, potential buyback funding, and how the issue is playing out in other states including Victoria. We also cover the Royal Commission’s terms of reference, the Tasmanian deer management review and deer population concerns, the impact of recent bushfires and community relief efforts, upcoming ADA events and training, and membership updates and gear releases.

Ep:026 The Roar: December 2025

Host Paul Gray speaks with Sean Kilkenny from the ADA about Victoria’s new Outdoor Recreation Victoria agency, its impact on hunting representation, and opportunities from improved land access and digital licensing.The episode reviews 2025 highlights including the opening of Snowy River and Errinundra national parks to recreational deer hunting, preservation of deer game status, the hut pilot program, and stronger compliance and promotion for hunters.Listeners also get updates on hunter education courses, new membership benefits, and a wrap-up of what these changes mean for the future of deer hunting in Australia.

Ep:025 The Roar: November 2025

Hosts Paul Gray and Sean Kilkenny bring the latest Australian deer news: Victoria has maintained the game status for wild deer, the bill unlocking Snowy River and Errinundra National Parks has passed, creating seasonal access to around 130,000 hectares, and other updates affecting recreational hunters.The episode also covers the Wildlife Act review and duck season context, practical details about seasonal dates and access rules, recent ballot and education opportunities, and thanks to members and supporting politicians.