Koala Euthanized After Being Dragged Behind Vehicle in Koroit

A koala was euthanized in Koroit, Victoria, after allegedly being dragged behind a vehicle on Wednesday. Eyewitnesses reported seeing an older man driving a white Toyota ute with a koala tied to the tow bar.

The koala was reportedly dragged along King Street before being left at Victoria Park.

The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) stated that the koala had rope tied around its neck and was dragged for an unspecified distance.

Wildlife rescuers, including Debbie O'Grady from Wildlife Victoria and Mosswood Wildlife, found the koala extensively injured but still alive. A volunteer veterinarian from Mosswood Wildlife center performed the euthanasia due to the severity of the injuries.

Josey Sharrad, IFAW's Oceania head of programs, described the incident as horrific and senseless, advocating for accountability for the responsible individual.

Investigation Underway, Public Urged to Report Information

Authorities are urging anyone with information to report it to police. Multiple individuals reported the recent incident to police, with the Conservation Regulator taking primary responsibility for the investigation alongside police.

Cal Heppell, director of regulatory operations at the Conservation Regulator, asked the public to report information to Crime Stoppers.

An aggravated cruelty offense can result in penalties up to $101,000 and two years in prison.

Series of Animal Cruelty Cases Reported in the Region

The incident is part of a series of animal cruelty cases reported in the area. Previous incidents include:

• An 18-year-old man running over a koala in 2023.
• A P-plater charged in 2020 for allegedly attempting to hit kangaroos, wallabies, and rabbits.
• A mutilated koala discovered in Warrnambool in 2017.