Australian Hunting and Beyond Podcast

In this episode, Matt is joined by Conah from the Wilder Bowfishing and Fishing Facebook page to talk all things bowfishing for carp. We break down specific gear, personal preferences, and practical setup considerations, including bows, arrows, reels, and sighting systems. Conah shares what works, what doesn’t, and how small setup changes can make a big difference on the water.The conversation moves into tips and tricks for strategy and stalking, from reading water and light conditions to approaching fish without spooking them. We also cover the rules and regulations around bowfishing, why knowing them matters, and how resources like the Angler Access website are invaluable for understanding where you can legally and responsibly access waterways.We finish by discussing bowfishing as a powerful gateway activity for youth and how it builds skills, patience, confidence, and naturally leads into broader bowhunting and outdoor involvement. It’s an episode packed with practical advice, responsible messaging, and a genuine passion for getting more people involved in ethical, legal outdoor pursuits.For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show, you can find all the links here. If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, get in touch via our socials.Disclaimer: Content shared on this podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only. For the full disclaimer, click on this link.

In this episode, Matt is joined by Brad Murphy from Murphy’s Trophy Taxidermy to talk all things bow hunting and what happens after the shot. We dive into the realities of taxidermy, the difference between trophy mounts and meat-focused outcomes, and why preserving an animal properly is about respect, skill, and storytelling rather than ego.The conversation moves through practical topics like caping and skinning, what hunters should and shouldn’t do in the field to give their taxidermist the best chance at quality work, and common mistakes that can ruin a cape before it ever reaches the workshop. Brad also shares insight into working on feral pigs, unusual jobs, and how different species present different challenges.We don’t shy away from broader conversations either, touching on veganism, perceptions of hunting, and how ethical hunters can better explain what they do and why. It’s an open, honest episode that blends technical knowledge, personal experience, and thoughtful discussion around hunting and conservation.For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show, you can find all the links here. If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, get in touch via our socials.Disclaimer: Content shared on this podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only. For the full disclaimer, click on this link.

In this episode, Matt is joined by Woody Outdoors for an open discussion that blends culture, commentary, and concern for the future of lawful firearm ownership. We kick off with the now-famous belt-fed shotgun T-shirt and what it represents—humour, identity, and frustration within the shooting community—before moving into deeper issues affecting shooters across the country. Link to buy the shirt here.The conversation then turns to the current state of firearm ownership in Australia, examining recent legislative changes and the growing pressure on lawful, compliant shooters. Woody and Matt discuss where governing bodies and shooting organisations have fallen short, the lack of unified leadership, and how missed opportunities and poor strategy have contributed to the position shooters now find themselves in.Finally, we ask the hard question many are thinking but few are saying out loud: has the horse bolted for Australians under these new firearms laws, or is there still a path forward? The episode focuses on realism, responsibility, and what shooters can do next—without emotion, without recklessness, and without losing sight of the bigger picture.For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show, you can find all the links here. If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, get in touch via our socials.Disclaimer: Content shared on this podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only. For the full disclaimer, click on this link.

In this episode, Matt is joined by Jay from Orange Accuracy as they break down the key factors that influence accurate and ethical shooting in real-world conditions. We talk about how heat affects both shooter and equipment, what it means for consistency, and how to manage fatigue and focus over longer sessions. The conversation moves into ballistics and distance, explaining how understanding trigonometry, trajectory, drop, and environmental variables helps shooters make informed, responsible decisions rather than relying on guesswork.We also explore long-range shooting fundamentals, with an emphasis on preparation, repeatable technique, and knowing your limits. Chronographs, Kestrels and ballistic calculator apps are discussed as a valuable tool for building reliable data, confirming muzzle velocity, and tightening confidence in your setup. Throughout the episode, the focus remains on being disciplined, knowledgeable, and ethical—continually improving your skills while prioritising safety and accountability every time you step behind the rifle.For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show, you can find all the links here. If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, get in touch via our socials.Disclaimer: Content shared on this podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only. For the full disclaimer, click on this link.

In this episode, Matt is joined by the host of WASP FILES, Paul for an in-depth and candid discussion following the tragic events at Bondi. The conversation examines the immediate political response, the concerning push for firearms reform, and the broader failures at a government and systems level that allowed the incident to occur. The focus remains on facts, accountability, and the importance of separating emotion from effective policy.The discussion then turns to what this moment means for lawful shooters and hunters across Australia. We talk through the likely next steps, the risks facing the community, and why unity, discipline, and informed action are critical. The episode outlines the emerging legal challenge, the strategy behind it, and the importance of supporting structured, lawful avenues rather than reacting emotionally or destructively.This is a serious, forward-focused conversation aimed at helping shooters and hunters understand the situation, what is at stake, and how to move forward responsibly while protecting a lawful way of life.For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show, you can find all the links here. If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, get in touch via our socials.Disclaimer: Content shared on this podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only. For the full disclaimer, click on this link.

In this episode, Matt and Felix address the tragic events at Bondi and the national conversation that followed. They discuss the speed at which firearms law reform was raised in the immediate aftermath and the concern this creates for lawful, licensed shooters across Australia. The conversation focuses on separating emotion-driven responses from evidence-based policy and why rushed reform risks targeting the wrong people.The episode also examines broader government failings surrounding the attack, including warning signs, system breakdowns, and accountability. Matt and Felix outline why lawful firearms ownership continues to be scrutinised following violent incidents, regardless of whether firearms were involved, and how this pattern affects shooters, hunters, and regional communities.Importantly, the discussion turns to action. The episode highlights what shooters must do immediately to safeguard their future—staying informed, engaging respectfully in public discourse, supporting representative bodies, complying strictly with existing laws, and holding governments accountable through lawful and constructive channels. It’s a serious conversation about responsibility, advocacy, and protecting a way of life without compromising public safety.For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show, you can find all the links here. If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, get in touch via our socials.Disclaimer: Content shared on this podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only. For the full disclaimer, click on this link.Premier Chris Minns letter addressFederal MP letter addressesNSW MP letter addresses

In this episode, we share a deeply personal and heart-breaking story following the loss of a loyal companion and best friend. While camping, Coby's dog was shot by illegal spot lighters while lying at his feet outside the tent. It’s a moment that no hunter, pet owner, or outdoorsperson should ever have to experience, and it has left a lasting impact that goes far beyond a single night in the bush.This episode carries a strong message condemning illegal hunting and irresponsible shooting behaviour. We talk openly about the damage these actions cause—not only to animals and people, but to the reputation of ethical hunters and the future of legal hunting access. The conversation calls on the wider hunting community to take a firm stance, to speak up, and to shun those who engage in illegal spotlighting, poaching and reckless conduct. It’s a powerful reminder that ethical behaviour, accountability, and respect for life must always come first.For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show, you can find all the links here. If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, get in touch via our socials.Disclaimer: Content shared on this podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only. For the full disclaimer, click on this link.

In this episode, Rob from Athena Spatial walks us through how he built, planned and budgeted a week-long New Zealand hunting adventure at a price point most people wouldn’t believe. We break down every stage of the trip: return flights, accommodation options, car hire, fuel, food, and the full list of legal requirements for hunting in NZ. Rob explains how to navigate permits, firearm processes, transport rules and what to expect when moving through airports with hunting gear.We also discuss the difference in public land access between Australia and New Zealand, how to structure a hunting week without blowing out costs, and the small planning decisions that make a massive difference to the final price—especially when travelling with two people, where the total drops to under $1,500 each. Rob shares tips on choosing locations, reading terrain, building a realistic budget, and avoiding common mistakes that travellers make on their first international hunt. It’s a practical, detailed episode for anyone who has dreamed about hunting New Zealand but thought it was too expensive or too complicated.For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show, you can find all the links here. If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, get in touch via our socials.Disclaimer: Content shared on this podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only. For the full disclaimer, click on this link.

Matt is joined by Robert Borsak Junior from the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party covering conservation reform, hunting and fishing, politics, national park access, NZ comparisons, and First Nations perspectives.In this episode, we sit down with Robert Borsak Junior to unpack a wide-ranging discussion that blends policy, culture, and life in the outdoors. We talk about the current conservation and hunting bill and what it means for hunters, farmers, landholders and regional communities. The conversation moves through hunting and fishing stories, the realities of managing wildlife in modern Australia, and the political challenges surrounding access, regulation and public land use.We also explore national park access and how different models—particularly New Zealand’s approach—offer insights into what could work here. Robert shares his view on balancing opportunity, safety, conservation and public interest. The conversation then turns to First Nations culture, looking at traditional land management, connection to Country, and how modern hunting can learn from long-standing practices. It’s an episode that spans policy, heritage, and the passion that drives both recreational and conservation-minded hunting.For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show, you can find all the links here. If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, get in touch via our socials.Disclaimer: Content shared on this podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only. For the full disclaimer, click on this link.

In this episode, Matt is joined by Joe from Ridgewalker Expeditions who shares stories from a range of international hunts, each with its own challenges, landscapes, and traditions. From stalking game in the mountains of Sweden to the unique experiences in Africa, and the fascinating access rules in Italy that involve moats and highly regulated land rights, Joe brings first-hand insights into what it’s like to hunt across continents. We talk about the different perspectives on land access, how hunting culture shifts depending on the country, and what Australian hunters can learn from these approaches. It’s an open and eye-opening conversation about opportunity, tradition, and responsibility in hunting across the globe.For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show, you can find all the links here. If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, get in touch via our socials.Disclaimer: Content shared on this podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only. For the full disclaimer, click on this link.

In this episode, Matt is joined by Gary, an ex-pat from Ireland. The boys dive into night operations on Australian farms: reading wind and paddock layouts, running buggies in the crops, and using thermal optics to identify heat signatures, confirm species, and make clean, ethical shots in the dark. We talk through teamwork, how to approach mobs without blowing the whole field and maximising effectiveness in reducing numbers. We also cover gear setups—thermal scopes and handheld scanners, handheld lights and the practical realities of crop protection: respecting landholders, stock, and neighbours while keeping pressure on pigs that hammer grain and silage.Gary then compares it with hunting in Ireland—how culture, permissions, and club/community expectations shape a very different experience. We discuss contrasts in access, landowner relationships, seasons and game management, and how equipment choices and local laws influence what’s practical in the field. It’s a candid chat about ethics, safety, and doing things the right way on both sides of the world.For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show, you can find all the links here. If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest you’d like to hear on the show, get in touch via our socials.Disclaimer: Content shared on this podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only. For the full disclaimer, click on this link.

In this episode, Matt is joined by his Irish mate Gary and they share the story of an unforgettable hunt, where three deer were taken cleanly one after another in less than a minute, providing plenty of quality meat to go around. We also talk about chasing goats with the bow and pigs on foot, pushing our skills and stamina in some rugged terrain, and spending time glassing and watching plenty of deer in breath-taking country.We cover the new rules for booking state forests in NSW, explaining what hunters need to know and how these changes affect planning trips. To wrap it up, we discuss how Zerotech scopes glass performed in the fading light and why it made such a difference when visibility mattered most.Whether you’re tuning in for hunting stories, gear talk, or updates on access to NSW forests, this episode has something for everyone who values ethical hunting and the great outdoors.For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show find all the links here. If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest that you'd like to hear on the show, shoot an email to australianhuntingandbeyond@gmail.com or via our socials.Disclaimer

Matt is joined by Felix to have a chat about a big Rusa x Sambar he is chasing and the SFFP.Want to support the show? Then checkout our shop and buy me a coffee. Alternatively, if you love coffee then check out Final Press and use the code AHBPODCAST to get 10% off and support the podcast at the same time!! For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show head over to our Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter) or website with all the links here.If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest that you'd like to hear on the show, shoot an email to australianhuntingandbeyond@gmail.com or via our socials.Disclaimer

Matt is joined by Joe, who despite terrible conditions was able to call in a Sambar Stag and drop him. They also talk about Mental Health and why hunting could be the perfect fix! For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show head over to our Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter) or website with all the links here.If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest that you'd like to hear on the show, shoot an email to australianhuntingandbeyond@gmail.com or via our socials. Disclaimer

Matt is joined by Rob aka The Obsessed Sambar Man and this one is interesting and controversial to boot. Trophy or Meat and does it matter? For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show find all the links here.If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest that you'd like to hear on the show, shoot an email to australianhuntingandbeyond@gmail.com or via our socials.Disclaimer

Join us this episode for Matt's favourite and funniest episode. For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show find all the links here.If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest that you'd like to hear on the show, shoot an email to australianhuntingandbeyond@gmail.com or via our socials. Disclaimer

Matt is joined by Doctor David Jenkins who has spent his life studying parasites in various animals including fallow deer, sheep and cows. He has published his research and whilst retired is still lecturing at university on the subject. He discusses the minimal risk in consuming wild deer meat or venison, what to look for and plenty more!For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show find all the links here.If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest that you'd like to hear on the show, shoot an email to australianhuntingandbeyond@gmail.com or via our socials.Disclaimer

In this episode, Matt is joined by Paul who is the host and creator of The WASP Files. As a film maker who has been captured by the tragic events all those years ago, he has spent the last 8 years researching, talking to witnesses and uncovering inconsistencies with the mainstream narrative of what actually happened on that fateful day. Check it out here and then head to The WASP Files

Matt unpacks the Hunting Conservation Hunting Bill 2025 that the honourable Robert Borsak of the Shooters Farmers Fishers Party put into the NSW Parliament recently. We cover the right to the hunt, suppressors, the input from the Invasive Species Council, the Animal Justice Party and the Greens. There is plenty in this one! Want to support the show? Then checkout our shop and buy me a coffee. Alternatively, if you love coffee then check out Final Press and use the code AHBPODCAST to get 10% off and support the podcast at the same time!! For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show head over to our Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter) or website with all the links here. If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest that you'd like to hear on the show, shoot an email to australianhuntingandbeyond@gmail.com or via our socials.Disclaimer

Matt is joined by Nick who was the winner of the Fallow Deer Hunters of Australia Facebook group giveaway. He is now the lucky one who will receive a fallow mount gifted by Murphy's Trophy Taxidermy in Goulburn NSW. Tune in to this episode to hear the story and plenty more.For the latest information, news, giveaways and anything mentioned on the show find all the links here.If you have a question, topic, gear review suggestion or a guest that you'd like to hear on the show, shoot an email to australianhuntingandbeyond@gmail.com or via our socials.Disclaimer