Crazy stunt ends in $2,322 fine for Aussie surfer—what happened?
- Replies 5
Pets play a significant role in our lives, bringing happiness and joy to our homes.
In Australia, it’s common to see some Aussies walking their dogs by the shore or even going surfing with their furry buddies. But have you ever seen someone take their pet Python to the beach?
Gold Coast surfer, Higor Fiuza, faced a challenging situation, as he was fined a substantial $2,322 for bringing his pet Python, Shiva, along while he went surfing at Rainbow Bay in Coolangatta.
The video he posted drew attention but has since been removed.
Following the video's popularity, wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and Science conducted an investigation into the incident.
Surprisingly, Fiuza wasn't penalised for risking his own or Shiva's safety. Instead, the fine was imposed for breaking the rules of his pet ownership permit, which required Shiva to stay at Fiuza's residence.
Wildlife officers found the surfer in breach of his permit, which only allows the snake to leave home for vet visits or sales to licensed individuals.
On the 14th of September, Fiuza was issued a fine for violating section 88a of the Nature Conservation Act following a report to authorities.
Senior Wildlife Officer Jonathan McDonald revealed that the surfing incident came to the department's notice when Fiuza spoke with local media.
‘Permit holders are not allowed to take animals from their licensed premises unless taking them to a vet or, selling or giving the animal to another permit holder or taking it to an authorised display,’ explained Mr McDonald.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries has clarified that a separate permit is needed for taking an animal out in public or displaying it.
‘We do not want permit holders to be displaying their native animals in public unless it is done for a specific approved purpose and in a way that best provides for the welfare of the animal, the safety of the public and complies with the relevant codes.’
Aside from that, public outings can subject native pets to ‘unnecessary stress,’ potentially resulting in unpredictable behaviour, as cautioned by the department.
Mr McDonald further emphasised, ‘There is also the threat of spreading diseases to native wildlife when people take captive-bred reptiles out in public.’
Concerning snakes and their interaction with water, the department also noted, ‘While they can swim, reptiles generally avoid water.’
This observation stands in contrast to Fiuza's earlier statement to the ABC News that Shiva ‘loved to be in the water.’
Mr McDonald clarified, ‘The Python would have found the water to be extremely cold, and the only snakes that should be in the ocean are sea snakes.’
Fiuza also received a warning for failing to update his online record book regarding Python's ownership.
Moreover, the Gold Coast community was deeply distressed. Concerns about Shiva's well-being and the potential impact on native wildlife have left many residents feeling uneasy.
Some comments about this stunt demonstrate the wide range of opinions among the public:
One person commented, ‘Nah, the guy’s a freak,’ while another praised the department, saying, ‘Well done Gold Coast City Council.’
Members, what are your thoughts on this surfer's stunt to bring his pet Python to the beach? Share your opinions in the comments below!
In Australia, it’s common to see some Aussies walking their dogs by the shore or even going surfing with their furry buddies. But have you ever seen someone take their pet Python to the beach?
Gold Coast surfer, Higor Fiuza, faced a challenging situation, as he was fined a substantial $2,322 for bringing his pet Python, Shiva, along while he went surfing at Rainbow Bay in Coolangatta.
The video he posted drew attention but has since been removed.
Following the video's popularity, wildlife officers from the Department of Environment and Science conducted an investigation into the incident.
Wouldn't it be surprising to be out there surfing at the beach and suddenly spot a Python riding the waves, just like you? Image source: Pixabay.
Surprisingly, Fiuza wasn't penalised for risking his own or Shiva's safety. Instead, the fine was imposed for breaking the rules of his pet ownership permit, which required Shiva to stay at Fiuza's residence.
Wildlife officers found the surfer in breach of his permit, which only allows the snake to leave home for vet visits or sales to licensed individuals.
On the 14th of September, Fiuza was issued a fine for violating section 88a of the Nature Conservation Act following a report to authorities.
Senior Wildlife Officer Jonathan McDonald revealed that the surfing incident came to the department's notice when Fiuza spoke with local media.
‘Permit holders are not allowed to take animals from their licensed premises unless taking them to a vet or, selling or giving the animal to another permit holder or taking it to an authorised display,’ explained Mr McDonald.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries has clarified that a separate permit is needed for taking an animal out in public or displaying it.
‘We do not want permit holders to be displaying their native animals in public unless it is done for a specific approved purpose and in a way that best provides for the welfare of the animal, the safety of the public and complies with the relevant codes.’
Aside from that, public outings can subject native pets to ‘unnecessary stress,’ potentially resulting in unpredictable behaviour, as cautioned by the department.
Mr McDonald further emphasised, ‘There is also the threat of spreading diseases to native wildlife when people take captive-bred reptiles out in public.’
Concerning snakes and their interaction with water, the department also noted, ‘While they can swim, reptiles generally avoid water.’
This observation stands in contrast to Fiuza's earlier statement to the ABC News that Shiva ‘loved to be in the water.’
Mr McDonald clarified, ‘The Python would have found the water to be extremely cold, and the only snakes that should be in the ocean are sea snakes.’
Fiuza also received a warning for failing to update his online record book regarding Python's ownership.
The Gold Coast's stunning beaches and lively surf scene draw around 12 million tourists annually. Image source: Pixabay.
Moreover, the Gold Coast community was deeply distressed. Concerns about Shiva's well-being and the potential impact on native wildlife have left many residents feeling uneasy.
Some comments about this stunt demonstrate the wide range of opinions among the public:
One person commented, ‘Nah, the guy’s a freak,’ while another praised the department, saying, ‘Well done Gold Coast City Council.’
Members, what are your thoughts on this surfer's stunt to bring his pet Python to the beach? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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