Sharing projects, insights and opportunities to get involved
Feral deer continue to cause major problems across Victoria – from damaging natural and cultural heritage to affecting farms, community safety and landcare revegetation efforts. As deer numbers grow and spread, many community groups are feeling the pressure.
Despite this, feral deer are still classified as protected wildlife in Victoria, leaving landholders and groups without the level of support needed to manage their impacts.
Formed in 2021, the Victorian Deer Control Community Network (VDCCN) provides a space for landowners and community groups to share knowledge, raise awareness and collaborate on solutions. We’re proud to have an MOU with Landcare Victoria Inc.
VDCCN is gathering information about deer impacts and the many projects underway across Victoria. These will be showcased on our website to help strengthen community learning and connections. If your Landcare network or group is experiencing issues related to feral deer or has a deer‑related project you’d like to share, we’d love to include your work. Please send information to: Peter Jacobs, Executive Officer peterj@invasives.org.au.
Many landcare groups and networks are already part of the VDCCN. Together, we’ve hosted several successful forums across the state. Our most recent forum in Halls Gap, run with Project Platypus, welcomed around 80 participants and generated fantastic discussion and collaboration.
Join the VDCCN Community
If your group is concerned about the growing impact of feral deer, we encourage you to join us. Membership is free, informative and a great way to build collective influence statewide. Join here. Have questions? Call Peter Jacobs on 0487 295 198.
Photo: Upper Ovens Valley Landcare uses high tree guards to protect plantings from feral deer rubbing and browsing.
This article appeared in the Landcare Victoria March newsletter.