Community concern has been raised following East Gippsland Water’s announcement of a proposed kangaroo shooting program across sites in Kalimna West, Eagle Point/Paynesville and Metung.
East Gippsland Water has advised residents in correspondence that “significant numbers of deer, kangaroos and foxes are causing damage to vegetation, neighbouring properties and other areas with important environmental value”. The organisation has not publicly released detailed data underpinning the assessment.
The proposal has prompted opposition from some residents, wildlife advocates and Landcare members. East Gippsland Kangaroo Alliance spokesperson Veronika Morrison said an online petition calling for the program to be stopped had attracted more than 4000 signatures at the time of reporting, though this figure has not been independently verified.
Some community members have questioned the population estimates being used and whether kangaroos are the primary contributors to vegetation impacts in the affected areas. Others have called for further public information distinguishing the impacts of kangaroos from those of deer, rabbits and other species.
Concerns have also been raised about fencing conditions in parts of the affected areas, with some advocating for improved exclusion fencing and non-lethal management approaches as alternatives to shooting.
Local resident Sam, whose property is near one of the proposed sites, said kangaroos had not caused damage on her farm.
“The kangaroos have intermittently grazed the back of our property for the years we have been here. They have never caused any damage,” she said.
Others have raised concerns about the potential impact on joeys and kangaroo family groups if the program proceeds. Under Victoria’s kangaroo management codes of practice, dependent joeys may be euthanised or become orphaned depending on operational circumstances and field conditions.
Wildlife shelter operator Susie Pulis said she opposed the proposal, describing kangaroos as part of the region’s natural environment and tourism appeal. Her comments reflect her personal view.
“Tourists travel from far and wide, including internationally, to witness East Gippsland’s remarkable wildlife,” Ms Pulis said.
Ms Pulis has called on the relevant state environment authority to review any permit associated with the proposed program. The current status of any approvals has not been independently confirmed.
East Gippsland Water has stated the program is intended to protect vegetation, neighbouring properties and environmentally significant areas.
