Australian Deer

Ep:024 The Roar: October 2025

Welcome to The Roar with Paul Gray — this episode features Sean Kilkenny from the ADA discussing a new pilot program for remote huts that include meat safes and will serve all park users, along with participation details via a survey for volunteers and site suggestions.
We cover the Parks and Public Land Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, which passed the lower house and would open Snowy River and Irinundra National Parks to recreational deer hunting, and explain the next steps as it moves to the upper house.
In the roundup: highlights from the Wild Deer Expo, thanks to volunteers, raffle winners, and a reminder that the Blond Bay ballot closes on October 31 with the draw on November 5.

Ep:023 The Roar: September 2025

Host Paul Gray chats with Sean Kilkenny from the ADA about the NSW Conservation and Hunting Bill inquiry, the Victorian bill to open Snowy River and Irinundra National Parks to recreational deer hunting, and the creation of new Central West national parks. They also cover the Great Forest National Park update and finish with a roundup of the Blonde Bay ballot, major raffle prizes, and the upcoming Wild Deer Expo.Join them for regulatory updates, advocacy insights, and community news shaping deer management in Australia.

EP:022 Special Edition: Shelley - National Hunting Camp with Paul Rogers

Join host Sean and ADA member Paul Rogers as they dive into Shelly Camp — a series of four annual deer-hunting camps that offer varied hunting blocks, flexible accommodation, and strong camaraderie. Paul shares his journey from first-timer to regular attendee and explains why Shelly is ideal for hunters of all experience levels.Learn practical tips on registration, on-site facilities (meat room, freezers, kitchen, showers), and planning your trip so you can arrive ready to hunt, process game, and connect with like-minded hunters.

Ep:021 The Roar: August 2025

Welcome to The Roar, your monthly gateway to the captivating world of Australian deer. Hosts Paul Gray and Sean Kilkenny discuss recent submissions on the NSW Conservation Hunting Bill and public land access, and what those changes could mean for recreational deer hunting.
They also review the Tasmanian election outcome, the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers party winning its first seat, the appointment of the new Minister for Primary Industries and Water, and the potential impacts for access policy.
Finally, the episode covers progress toward opening Snowy and Errinundra National Parks, practical access planning (including rafting), and details of the Ultimate Deer Hunter raffle that funds on‑ground ADA work. Tune in for concise updates and next steps.

Ep:020 The Roar: July 2025

Welcome to this exciting episode of The Roar, part of the Australian Deer Podcast. Join host Paul Gray and Sean Kilkenny, Leader of Advocacy and Deer Management at the ADA, as they discuss monumental news for deer hunters in Australia. The Snowy River and Irinundra National Parks in Victoria have been opened for seasonal recreational deer hunting, a landmark achievement years in the making.
This episode delves into the journey and persistence of the Australian Deer Association, working with government officials like Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister Steve Dimopoulos to make this dream a reality. Discover the significance of this victory for the hunting community and how it sets a precedent for the future of national parks in Australia.
Alongside this significant development, the episode also covers the upcoming Tasmanian election and its implications for deer hunters, as well as new legislative opportunities in New South Wales. Tune in for all this and more, only on The Roar on the Australian Deer Podcast.

Ep:019 The Roar: June 2025

In this episode of The Roar on the Australian Deer Podcast, hosted by Paul Gray, we pay tribute to the late Ken Pearce, a legendary figure in the deer community. Join Paul and Sean Kilkenny as they discuss Ken's contributions and his posthumous life membership honor.The episode also covers Sean's recent trip to New South Wales Parliament, highlighting the discussions on renewable energy projects impacting deer hunting areas. Stay informed with updates on the Great Forest National Park petition and footnote on an intriguing deer footprints controversy.Finally, tune in for insights into the Tasmanian elections, national hunting camps, and educational opportunities for deer enthusiasts.

Ep:018 The Roar: May 2025

Welcome to the latest episode of The Australian Deer Podcast, where your host Paul Gray is joined by Sean Kilkenny to delve into significant happenings in the deer world. This installment pays tribute to Ken Pierce, a revered figure in deer hunting, whose legacy is fondly remembered throughout the community. His contributions to deer education and advocacy have left a lasting impact that continues to inspire many.
Further, the episode touches on the progress made in Tasmania as the Australian Deer Association makes strides in deer management and advocacy. The appointment to the Tasmanian Game Council marks a pivotal moment for deer enthusiasts, providing new opportunities for recreational hunting and public land access.
Finally, stay informed with updates on the Great Outdoors Task Force and Parks Victoria, ensuring recreational hunters are aware of changes to land access and management. Join us for thoughtful insights and updates in this month's roundup.

Ep:017 The Roar: April 2025

Episode 17 of The Roar on the Australian Deer Podcast, covers the Tasmanian Fallow Deer season, harvest reports for Tasmania and New South Wales, a spruce-up of the East Gippsland hut, upcoming hound assessment days, the Shelly camp, the Victorian Hunter Education weekend, and new merchandise offerings.