Police investigating after geese mowed down by car in Victoria

Authorities are investigating a disturbing incident in Malmsbury, central Victoria, where a driver allegedly deliberately struck and killed a group of geese crossing a road. Police were alerted after a car was seen speeding away from the scene last Thursday.

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If we had a dollar for every tourist picture taken of the geese, we'd be a wealthy town.

Local residents reported that the geese are a well-known and beloved feature of the town, often posing for photos for tourists. Musician Andy Rigby, a long-time resident, described the birds as one of Malmsbury's most recognizable attractions. "If we had a dollar for every tourist picture taken of the geese, we'd be a wealthy town," he told ABC Central Victoria Breakfast.

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It was right outside the general store.

The incident left locals shocked. "It was right outside the general store," Rigby said. "I drove down later that day and there were police vehicles and feathers everywhere." Four geese died immediately, and two injured birds were taken to a veterinary clinic in Kyneton. Vet Greg McIntyre confirmed that one of the injured birds died while being treated, but the other two were later deemed fit to return to Malmsbury.

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There were three alive when locals first called us, but one died while they were still talking to us.

While many cherish the geese, their presence has long been a divisive issue in Malmsbury. Some residents believe the birds are too numerous and may impact native wildlife, while others, like Simon Rogers, see them as a "tourist plus" and a "lovely attraction." The apparent hit-and-run has intensified this debate, with Rogers calling the act "quite bizarre."

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They're a lovely attraction. They're generally a positive thing.