Australian Hunting and Beyond Podcast

In this episode, Matt is joined by Michael, the creator behind Voice of the Hunter, for an honest and thought-provoking conversation about hunting, advocacy, and why it's more important than ever for hunters to stand together. Michael shares how he found his way back into hunting after years away, the influence of his grandfather, and how that passion eventually led him to create hunting content that educates, inspires, and gives ethical hunters a stronger voice. The discussion explores the challenges facing hunters today, from firearm legislation and conservation debates to the importance of presenting hunting in a positive light. Matt and Michael talk about why accurate information matters, the role of advocacy, and how the hunting community can work together rather than against itself. They also discuss the value of creating hunting content, the realities of filming in the field, and the responsibility that comes with sharing hunting online. The conversation then turns to hunting itself, covering thermal equipment, public land hunting, Sambar and fallow deer behaviour, reading the bush, and the lessons that only come from spending countless hours in the field. Michael shares practical insights into understanding deer movement, learning from mistakes, and continually improving as a hunter. It's an episode full of hunting stories, practical knowledge, and a passionate discussion about protecting Australia's hunting heritage for future generations. 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.

A campfire recap of this year’s rut, with close encounters, hard lessons, a good buck on the ground, and the moments that keep us coming back.In this episode, Matt and Dan sit down around the fire with a beer in hand to reflect on this year’s rut and everything that came with it. From early mornings and roaring bucks to missed opportunities and memorable encounters, it’s an honest look back at another season in the bush.Matt managed to take a good buck this year, while Dan couldn’t quite back up the success of last season when he landed two impressive bucks. But as every hunter knows, the rut has a way of humbling even the most experienced hunters, and this year was no different.Dan recounts an incredible stand-off with multiple does barking at him from under 20 metres, testing his patience and nerve as he tried to remain unnoticed. He also shares stories of calling in several bucks, only to watch them hang up just out of range, refusing to cross the fence and offer a shot. It’s those moments of anticipation, frustration, and excitement that make the rut so addictive.While not every opportunity ended with a deer on the ground, the boys reflect on the great experiences, the lessons learned, and why time spent in the bush is about far more than filling a tag. With plenty of laughs and stories shared around the campfire, this episode captures everything that makes the rut such a special time of year.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.

A campfire recap from the Victorian High Country after an unforgettable Sambar hunt, with plenty of highs, lows, laughs, and one very hard-earned first deer.In this episode, the microphones come out around the campfire as Matt, Nick and Brad reflect on an incredible few days chasing Sambar in the Victorian High Country. After years of dreaming about it, Matt finally gets his first Sambar deer, marking a milestone hunt in some of Australia's toughest hunting country.The conversation dives into the reality of hunting the High Country. Steep terrain, thick cover, long climbs, and physical demands that make every success feel more than earned. Matt shares the challenges of the hunt, including finding himself flat on his back at times and battling through a gruelling carry-out that tested both body and mind. It's a raw and honest look at what makes Sambar hunting such a rewarding and challenging pursuit.As always, the campfire setting brings out plenty of laughs, stories, and reflections on the moments that made the trip memorable. From the excitement of success to the struggles that come with hunting in rugged country, this episode captures the experience exactly as it happened.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 Matt from Northwest Outfitters to break down the tactics and strategy behind consistently finding success on fallow deer during the rut. The conversation dives into reading deer behaviour, positioning, calling, timing, and adapting to changing conditions when bucks are fired up and moving hard.We also discuss what it’s like guiding hunters, the pressure and reward that comes with helping others succeed in the field, and some of the memorable encounters that come with spending so much time chasing deer. Matt shares stories and lessons from his recent New Zealand hunting trip, comparing terrain, hunting styles, and the overall experience across the Tasman.One of the highlights of the episode is discussing an incredible piece of footage where Matt successfully takes a buck with his bow on camera, capturing the intensity and emotion of the moment from start to finish. It’s an episode packed with practical deer hunting knowledge, real hunting stories, and a genuine passion for life in the bush.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.

Rut and roar recap with close encounters, multiple deer on the ground, hard-earned lessons, and a wild run-in with a venomous snake.In this episode, Matt is joined by Ryan from Tusks and Tines to recap his rut and roar season chasing fallow bucks and red stags. The conversation is packed with close-range encounters, intense moments in the bush, and multiple successful hunts where some quality deer hit the ground.We dive into the strategies and tactics that made the difference during the rut — reading deer behaviour, positioning, timing, and making the most of those short windows when everything comes together. Ryan shares what worked, what didn’t, and the lessons learned across the season.The episode also highlights how unpredictable the bush can be, with a close run-in with a venomous snake adding to an already action-packed trip. It’s a reminder of the awareness and respect required every time you head out.This is a story-driven episode full of real hunting experiences, practical takeaways, and honest reflections from a big rut and roar season.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.

Pre-rut scouting with the kids, trail cameras going up, a perfect spiker on the ground, and a missed opportunity at 20 metres.In this episode, Matt and Dan aka the faceless hunter head out on a pre-rut scouting trip with their kids, focusing on teaching, learning, and passing on knowledge in the bush. They talk about the importance of getting the next generation involved early, building skills, and making the most of time spent outdoors together. Trail cameras are set up as part of the preparation, with discussion around placement, strategy, and what to look for leading into the rut.The trip turns into a pre-rut hunt, where Dan comes up trumps and takes a fantastic spiker — often considered one of the best meat animals when managed correctly. The episode also shares a moment every hunter can relate to, with Matt missing a buck at just 20 metres. They break down what happened, the lessons learned, and how even close-range opportunities can go wrong in the field.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 Rob Baldinger, also known as the Venison Diplomat, to talk about his latest children’s book I Am a Duck Hunter, the follow-up to his first release I Am a Deer Hunter. We discuss the importance of introducing the next generation to hunting in a positive, educational way, and how storytelling can play a role in shaping understanding and respect for the outdoors.The conversation moves into waterfowl hunting, including the WIT test (Waterfowl Identification Test), why it matters, and what’s required for hunters to participate responsibly. We also cover gaining access to hunt ducks on rice fields, the relationships involved, and how access differs across regions and properties.We also touch on the political landscape following recent events, the pressures facing hunters, and where things may be heading. The episode finishes on a forward-looking note, focusing on the importance of education, advocacy, and maintaining a strong, responsible hunting community for the future.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 chats with the team from Foxoff Giveaways about their brand-new platform launching this Friday (link here). The platform is kicking things off with a huge giveaway — the Hikmicro Habrok binoculars, a high-end piece of thermal and digital optic gear valued at over $10,000. We talk about how the platform works, what makes it different, and what users can expect when signing up and entering giveaways in the future.For those keen to get involved early, listeners of the show can use the code Beyond to receive 2-for-1 entries when selecting a package, while also gaining access to the new platform as it launches. It’s a great opportunity to get in early and be part of the first giveaway.We also talk about a big milestone for the podcast, with the launch of our first hunting video on YouTube. If you enjoy the podcast, head over to the channel to check out the video and see the hunts come to life on screen.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 Brian Boyle — hunter, conservationist, and a key figure in the development of public land hunting in both NSW and the Northern Territory. Brian shares first hand stories from his time on the Game Council of NSW, reflecting on the early days of regulated public land access and the challenges of building systems that balanced conservation with opportunity.We dive into remote Northern Territory buffalo hunts alongside local Aboriginal communities, exploring the cultural connections to land and wildlife management in some of Australia’s most isolated country. The conversation also covers chasing Hog Deer on Sunday Island through the Australian Deer Association, of which Brian is a member, and the unique traditions and structure around that hunt.With decades of experience across hunting, policy, and advocacy, Brian brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Now working with the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party, he offers perspective on the current political climate, the pressures facing hunters today, and where things may be heading. It’s an episode packed with stories, insight, history, and honest discussion about conservation and representation in modern Australia.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 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 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 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, 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.