Premier Mark McGowan makes strong push for new review into animal hunter Jewell Crossberg’s Parks and Wildlife appointment

Premier Mark McGowan has ordered a fresh review into how animal hunter Jewell Crossberg was recruited by WA’s conservation department as a Parks and Wildlife manager.

Mr McGowan yesterday said he did not have the authority to recommend Mr Crossberg’s dismissal, but still wanted answers about him being employed.

“In terms of his employment arrangements, I have put a request in for a further review today, to look at whether or not he is suitable for employment by the Western Australian Government” Mr McGowan said.

“I don’t control that (Mr Crossberg being dismissed). That is outside my control.

“But I have asked that it be looked at again because I just don’t accept that sort of conduct – even if it was some years ago.”

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Jewell Crossberg was recently appointed as the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attraction’s acting Esperance district manager despite posting photos of himself on Facebook alongside dead zebras, rhinos, giraffes and elephants.

So far Mr Crossberg will keep his job, with the department admitting on Friday they knew of his “professional background in integrated conservation and authorised African game reserve management”.

Mr McGowan said he was appalled at the images.

“The images I saw and the things that he did were completely unacceptable – I hate those sorts of images.” Mr McGowan said.

I hate those sort of practices.

“Endangered species need to be protected.

“We are just a generation, and there are numerous generations to come after us.

“And we cannot afford to lose any more of these magnificent, valued and endangered species.

“People who go out and shoot them, I have no time for.”