Stewart “Stewy the Snake Catcher” Gatt will have his wildlife controller license renewed after a decision by the state government to refuse his permit was overturned by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
Representatives from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) denied Mr Gatt’s application to renew his licence in August 2021, citing multiple breaches of obligations as the reason.
This includes conduct relating to the rehabilitation of an unwell snake, employing an unlicensed individual to remove a skink, and acquiring wildlife from an unlicensed person.
Mr Gatt appealed the department’s decision and his case was heard on May 18 before VCAT senior member Jonathan Smithers, who concluded Mr Gatt “learned his lesson” and was a “straightforward and honest character”.
Mr Gatt said he had “made a few mistakes” in the past, but was “relieved” that the “right decision” had been made.
“I have had to go through hell and back to fight for my rights. I’m not saying that I’m perfect…but I am only human after all,” he said.
Mr Gatt was also called out by the department for failing to comply with regulation requirements, particularly referencing the videos and photographs of his wildlife controller activities posted to social media.
Mr Smithers said he was “satisfied” Mr Gatt now understood that he was “not permitted” to display such content.
“The videos and photos that I posted were all for educational purposes, and every other catcher in Australia posts videos and photos, but it’s only illegal in Victoria,” he said.
“I believe that the rule for this is outdated and needs to be amended.
“Now that this is over, it’s time for a fresh start and time to get back to doing what I love.”
