A property owner from Buffalo has been charged at the Wonthaggi Magistrates Court in relation to the misuse of 1080 fox baits.
Roger Davis was charged and convicted of multiple offences and ordered to donate $3,000 to the RSPCA after he was found to have incorrectly used the regulated chemical on his property.
Agriculture Victoria Program Manager Daniel Bode said the accused 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.
‘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, providing specific information that includes the dates they intend to bait.
Signage is also compulsory for all land where baiting occurs. Signage must include the date the baits were laid, contact numbers, the chemical name, 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.’
The misuse resulted in a neighbour’s dog suffering seizures after eating the bait and having to be euthanised.
Mr Bode said the result sends a very clear message to bait users that the misuse of 1080 products will not be tolerated by the Victorian Government or our community.
