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Charges laid for Venus Bay wombat deaths

A South Gippsland man has been charged with 20 offences under the Wildlife Act 1975 and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 for alleged conduct leading to the deaths of up to 9 wombats in Venus Bay.

Published:
Wednesday 30 July 2025 at 9:12 am
A Common or Bare-nosed wombat eating vegetation
Common or Bare-nosed Wombat

The charges follow an extensive investigation by the Conservation Regulator and Victoria Police into the deaths which occurred at Venus Bay in Gippsland on Tuesday, 18 February 2025, in what we allege represents a senseless and deliberate act of animal cruelty.

All wildlife in Victoria is protected under the Wildlife Act 1975. It is illegal to hunt, take, destroy, injure, or interfere with wildlife without authorisation. 

The Conservation Regulator urges anyone with information about wildlife cruelty to report it to Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000. Reports can be made anonymously. 

Chief Conservation Regulator, Kate Gavens said:

'Wildlife cruelty is unacceptable. The Conservation Regulator will investigate and seek prosecution for serious cases of wildlife cruelty. '

'The Conservation Regulator takes wildlife cruelty seriously, and I encourage the public to report any information about wildlife crime to Crime Stoppers.'

Environment, water & energy

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