Positive step towards horse management

Friday 15 June, 2012

Parks Victoria and Yorta Yorta Nation Aboriginal Corporation recently held an advisory committee meeting as a positive step in managing wild horses in Barmah National Park, Environment and Climate Change Minister Ryan Smith said today.

The horse management program will aim to reduce the impact of the horses and protect habitat and cultural heritage sites in the forest while recognising the social and heritage value of the horses.

The Barmah Horse Advisory Committee will provide a voice for the community and facilitate broader consultation to assist Parks Victoria and Yorta Yorta Nation to plan, monitor and implement a horse management program in Barmah National Park.

The committee includes representatives from Barmah Forest Cattlemen’s Association, Barmah Forest Preservation League, Goulburn Valley Environment Group, Moira Shire Council, RSPCA (Victoria) and the Victorian Brumby Association.

Representatives were selected based on specific knowledge, experience and skills relating to the program including bush knowledge, horsemanship, environment and cultural heritage protection and the humane treatment of animals.

River Red Gum District Chief Ranger Craig Stubbings said it was agreed the community wanted to see the horses treated in a humane manner and wanted to see the program reflect how the horses have helped to shape society.

“As land managers, Parks Victoria will be developing options for the management of the Barmah horses to reduce the impacts of grazing pressure, trampling and pugging on the sensitive environment and cultural sites. The Barmah Horse Advisory Committee will assist in this process,” Mr Stubbings said.

Barmah National Park is part of the largest River Red Gum forest in the world. It supports many rare and threatened plants and animals, and holds Ramsar-listed wetlands of international significance.