The Conservation Regulator is seeking public assistance after at least 65 dead eastern grey kangaroos were found with gunshot wounds and other injuries near Gobarup on Saturday 22 June 2024.

The Conservation Regulator is investigating the incident following a report from a local wildlife shelter operator who discovered dozens of deceased kangaroos in private paddocks along the Tait-Hamilton Road.

When Authorised Officers inspected the site, they found 65 deceased adult and juvenile kangaroos spread across roughly 190 hectares of land. The animals had evidence of fatal gunshot wounds and other traumatic injuries consistent with being rammed by a vehicle. Officers also located used shotgun cartridges in the area.

Authorised Officers have spoken with a landowner who is not considered a person of interest.

The wildlife carer reported finding three kangaroos still alive but subsequently euthanised them due to the severity of their injuries. Two kangaroo joeys were also reportedly recovered and are being cared for at a wildlife shelter.

The offences are suspected to have been committed between 5pm Friday 21 June and 4pm Saturday 22 June.

The Conservation Regulator is urging anyone with information to report it anonymously to Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au.

All wildlife, including kangaroos, are protected in Victoria under the Wildlife Act 1975 . It is illegal to hunt, take, destroy, injure, or interfere with wildlife without authorisation and carries a maximum penalty of more than $9,870 and/or six months in prison for each offence. Additional maximum penalties of $98,795 or two years in prison could also apply under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986.