Images of euthanised deer laying in waters of Lake Tyers have surfaced, raising environmental and compliance concerns, with administrators of the State Government’s deer culling program, believed to be responsible.

Nationals’ State MP for Gippsland East, Tim Bull, said while he supports control efforts of the invasive pest, the fact their bodies are being left to decompose in the pristine waters of our lake system is an absolute blight on contractors and the government department tasked to oversee the program.

“Locals to the area have sent me photos of multiple deer floating in the water as well as laying on the banks of Lake Tyers, which is not good enough,” Mr Bull said.

The Department of Environment’s own guidelines specify that target animals will not be controlled near waterways, walking tracks or public roads. This is further supported by the Parks Victoria website affirming that, shooters will avoid shooting animals in wetlands or waterways.

“I have been informed that Parks Victoria’s engaged contractors are shooting the feral deer from the water which, while offering a clear line of site for shooters, means they cannot be left where they fall on the water’s edge.

“I’m also advised carcasses are being left to rot on the waterside at Bemm River and on the Snowy River by Parks’ contractors undertaking control activities.

“Lake Tyers is a renowned fishing hot spot producing trophy quality bream and flathead. Various competitions are held locally attracting fishers to the region and of course there’s a number of popular swimming locations.

“This is not the welcome our visitors should have,” he said.

Caption: Images of euthanised deer pictured in the waters at Black Fellow Arm in Lake Tyers.