A $10,000 reward is being offered for information regarding the illegal shooting of several kangaroos at Cardinia Reservoir Park two weeks ago.
Victoria Police responded to the Emerald shooting which took place over the night of 3 and 4 November, officers saved a joey after its mother and four other kangaroos were shot and killed.
Sarah Cooke, a volunteer wildlife rescuer, attended the scene. It’s reported that two other joeys were recovered but did not survive, another adult kangaroo was euthanised due to apparent stress myopathy.
The surviving joey, ‘Cardi’, is now being raised by a wildlife carer.
In response, the Victorian Kangaroo Alliance (VKA), a volunteer community organisation, has teamed up with Gariwerd Animal Biodiversity Alliance (GABA) and Advocacy for a Kinder World (AKW) to raise $10,000 as a reward for information leading to the conviction of the perpetrator/s.
“We cannot ignore acts of cruelty like this. Our community stands firmly against such heinous behaviour and demands accountability,” spokesperson for VKA, GABA and AKW, Jane Gibb said.
“With the generous contribution from appalled community members, we are offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of those responsible for this horrifying crime.
“We are hoping that the reward will encourage anyone with information to come forward.
“We are committed to finding justice for these kangaroos, and highlighting the importance of protecting Australia’s unique wildlife.”
Police are investigating the incident, if anyone has any information relating to the incident, they are urged to contact Emerald Police on 5954 0200, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, online at crimestoppersvic.com.au or info@vickangas.org.
