Shooters put fresh fix for rabbit problem on the menu

Hobart’s ballooning urban rabbit population would be managed as a sustainable food resource with a cull by shooters, the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party says. Here’s how.

Rabbit Ragu, anyone?

Tasmania’s ballooning rabbit population should be managed as a sustainable food resource through a harvest by shooters using suppressed weapons or being quietly picked off by bow hunters, the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party says.

Tasmania is experiencing an increase in reports of rabbits, from Mole Creek to South Arm to the CBD itself.

SFF spokesman Adrian Pickin said the rabbits represented a sustainable, natural food source and they could be managed by trapping, netting, bow hunting or shooting.

“With the rising cost of living and a renewed interest in traditional cooking, it’s time to rethink how we deal with invasive rabbits,” he said.

“Instead of seeing them solely as pests, we should recognise them as a sustainable, natural food source

Braised rabbit with white wine and peas

“Too often, councils shift the blame to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment rather than taking responsibility and working with communities on practical solutions.”

Keeping, possessing, buying, selling or making suppressors — which reduce the noise of firearms — is currently an offence in Tasmania.

Mr Pickin said the rabbit problem helped make the case for reform.

“In areas where firearms can be used, suppressors should be legalised as a humane, safe, and responsible tool for pest control,” he said.

“They reduce noise pollution, protect hearing, and improve accuracy — making them a practical solution for managing rabbit populations without disturbing neighbours.

“It’s time to shift the narrative.

“Let’s embrace practical, sustainable solutions that benefit both the environment and our communities.”

The Greens have called for “alternative, humane biocontrol measures” to increasing rabbit populations.

They have called for a grant scheme to compensate “community groups, organisations, departments, and farmers” dealing with rabbits.

Comment has been sought from the government on the SFF suggestion.

Originally published as Shooters put fresh fix for rabbit problem on the menu