FIVE men have been fined a combined total of more than $8000 over hunting-related and driving offences in Victoria’s Alpine area.

The men, from Melbourne’s western suburbs and the town of Mount Cottrell, were found guilty of possession of a spotlight and firearm in recognised deer habitat.

Police found three high-powered spotlights and a rifle in their car when it was stopped in the Rose River area near Whitfield in June last year.

Game Management Authority compliance and intelligence director Paul Stevens said it was a targeted operation after police received complaints about illegal activity in the area.

“Illegal hunting and irresponsible behaviour can be dangerous and can put people and wildlife at risk,” Mr Stevens said.

“It is the responsibility of hunters to ensure they know the laws and are not illegally in possession of spotlights and firearms in recognised deer habitat during prohibited times.”

One of the men was also found guilty of failing to ensure the gun was carried in a secure manner and forfeited the rifle.

Another had his car impounded for a month, his driver’s licence cancelled for six months and was fined for failing to stop when directed by police.