Police are investigating whether a driver deliberately mowed down a gaggle of geese crossing a road in central Victoria.
Police say they were told a car was seen driving away after ploughing into the geese near the intersection of Mollison Street and Ellesmere Place in Malmsbury last Thursday.
Local says the geese regularly cross that stretch of road.
Musician Andy Rigby, who has lived in Malmsbury for nearly two decades, said the birds have become one of the town’s most recognisable attractions.
“If we had a dollar for every tourist picture taken of the geese, we’d be a wealthy town,” Mr Rigby told ABC Central Victoria Breakfast.
“Everybody who hasn’t been to Malmsbury before gets out and takes a photo or video of them.”
Malmsbury is home to a well-known gaggle of geese. (ABC News: Kristofor Lawson)
Mr Rigby said the incident shocked locals.
“It was right outside the general store,” he said.
“I drove down later that day and there were police vehicles and feathers everywhere.“
Four geese died at the scene and members of the public rushed two injured birds to McIntyre Veterinary Clinic in nearby Kyneton.
“There were three alive when locals first called us, but one died while they were still talking to us,” vet Greg McIntyre said.
He praised the efforts of locals who stepped in to help save the birds.
Clinic staff examined the two surviving birds, conducting X-rays on one.
The birds were determined fit to return to Malmsbury the following morning.
The geese often hang out on the side of roads throughout the small township. (ABC News: Kristofor Lawson)
Presence of geese ‘very hot topic’
While the geese are a beloved feature for many residents and visitors, their presence has long divided community opinion.
“There are people in the town who think there are too many geese,” Mr Rigby said.
He said some residents believed the birds may be affecting native wildlife, but others saw them as part of the town’s identity.
Simon Rogers, who has lived in the area for 11 years, called them a “tourist plus”.
“They’re a lovely attraction,” he said.
“They’re generally a positive thing.”
Mr Rogers said the incident had reignited debate in the town.
“It’s a very hot topic. The local Facebook group actually banned discussions about the geese before this,” he said.
Geese are often seen near the Malmsbury Botanic Gardens. (ABC News: Kristofor Lawson)
Mr Rogers estimated there were 40 to 50 geese in the flock.
Despite differing views, he said the apparent failure of a driver to stop had upset locals.
“To just plough through them and keep going without stopping … it’s quite bizarre,”
he said.
Police are appealing for anyone who may have dash cam or CCTV footage to come forward.
