The former head of the Game Council, whose illegal killing of a feral goat started a chain reaction that led to the abolition of the council and the scuttling of plans to allow hunters access to national parks in NSW, has been convicted of hunting and firearms offences.

Greg McFarland, 51, who initially denied taking any part in the goat hunt in December 2012, pleaded guilty in Parkes Local Court this week to entering private land to hunt an animal without the consent of the owner, and carrying firearms onto enclosed land.

Denial to guilty plea: Greg McFarland. Credit:Steve Gosch

His co-accused, Edward Hoogenboom, 66, a veteran Game Council volunteer, was also convicted.

Both men were fined $300 for illegal hunting and given a 12-month good behaviour bond for entering private property with firearms.