Man convicted at Wonthaggi court over fox bait misuse
Agriculture Victoria says the baits were laid too close to neighbours and a dog that ate one had to be euthanised
A BUFFALO property owner has been convicted at Wonthaggi Magistrates’ Court over the misuse of 1080 fox baits.
Roger Davis was charged and convicted of multiple offences and ordered to donate $3000 to the RSPCA after he was found to have incorrectly used the regulated chemical on his property.
Agriculture Victoria program manager Daniel Bode said Mr Davis did not hold the appropriate authorisation for the use of 1080 in Victoria.
“1080 fox baits must be used according to the product label and the Directions for the Use of 1080 and PAPP Pest Animal Bait Products in Victoria,” Mr Bode said.
“These documents outline the use requirements, including neighbour notification, prohibiting the use of the product in domestic situations, signage information and distance restrictions.
“The accused had placed the baits in locations deemed not safe for domestic situations, due to the proximity to his neighbours.”
Anyone using 1080 fox baits must notify their neighbours in writing at least 72 hours in advance, including the dates they intend to bait, and display compulsory signage naming the date the baits were laid, contact numbers, the chemical name, the target animal and a warning that domestic animals and pets can be affected.
“The accused also failed to record the use of the chemicals, which is in breach of the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use) Act 1992,” Mr Bode said.
The misuse resulted in a neighbour’s dog suffering seizures after eating the bait, and the dog had to be euthanised.
Mr Bode said the result sent a clear message to bait users that the misuse of 1080 products would not be tolerated by the state government or the community.
Anyone wishing to report inappropriate or potentially illegal agricultural or veterinary chemical use can contact Agriculture Victoria on 136 186.
