The issue of illegal hunting and trespassing has been raised after a Howqua property owner reported capturing footage of hunters allegedly accessing his 200-acre property.

The incident, reported to have taken place on the evening of Friday 18 July, allegedly involved trespassers removing two trail cameras valued at $395 each, which had been secured near the front gate.

According to the property owner, other cameras placed further inside the property went unnoticed and recorded three individuals, with one man apparently carrying a compound bow and two younger men carrying what appear to be high-powered rifles.

Property owner Mark Fitzmaurice said he has provided the footage to various authorities and organisations in an effort to identify those involved.

The property, purchased for its natural bush setting, adjoins the Lauriston Girls School year nine campus.

Mr Fitzmaurice said he was concerned not just for his family but also for neighbouring residents.

“It’s extremely unsettling to think that this kind of behaviour is happening in our community,” Mr Fitzmaurice said.

Under Victorian law, hunting on private property is only permitted with the landowner’s permission.

Hunting without permission may constitute criminal trespass, which carries penalties including fines, possible jail terms and the seizure of equipment.

Zac Powell, Director of Compliance and Intelligence for Victoria’s Game Management Authority (GMA), said hunting at night is also prohibited.

“It is dangerous and can put communities, properties, and livestock at risk,” he said.