Australian man faces 20 charges after alleged events in quiet holiday town
Police and Victoria's Conservation Regulator began investigating the deaths during the summer and announced a South Gippsland man had been charged today under the Wildlife Act and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. They will allege the deaths represent 'a senseless and deliberate act of animal cruelty'.
Located on the Bass Coast, the ordinarily quiet village is a world away from nearby bustling Inverloch and Phillip Island, where the population swells from around 14,000 to 40,000 over the summer. Because it hasn't been developed like neighbouring suburbs, it's known for its wildlife, and ahead of the summer, residents placed homemade wombat warning signs in their front yards, asking tourists to slow down.
How do I respond if I witness wildlife crime?
Under Victoria's Wildlife Act, it is illegal to kill or harm wildlife without a permit. Conservation Regulator chief Kate Gavens said her agency, which sits within the Department of Environment (DEECA) takes wildlife crime 'seriously'.
'Wildlife cruelty is unacceptable. [The] Conservation Regulator will investigate and seek prosecution for serious cases of wildlife cruelty,' she said.
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Anyone with information about wildlife crime is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Reports can be made anonymously.
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