The majestic kangaroos of Benalla Golf Club have roamed this land for generations, symbolizing the rich natural heritage of our community. They are an intrinsic part of the ecosystem, playing a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance while adding to the scenic beauty that draws visitors to our town of Benalla in Victoria, Australia. However, these beloved creatures are now under threat due to proposed measures that fail to consider their preservation. 

Recent discussions have brought forth plans to manage the kangaroo population in a manner that will lead to their harm on this Thursday the 11th of June 2026. Such actions, if executed, threaten the very existence of these kangaroos, disrupt the local ecology, and tarnish not just the Benalla Gold Clubs but Benalla's reputation as a wildlife-friendly destination. How can the Golf Club advertise on their own website, telling visitors to "watch for kangaroos grazing alongside the fairways" using them as a marketing tool to increase revenue, then have them killed by a kangaroo "harvester" for commercial use in dog food? The Kangaroo Harvesting Program is meant to be used as a last option when all other non-lethal alternatives have been attempted which the Club has not done. 

Fact-based evidence from wildlife conservation studies shows that coexistence and humane population management strategies are effective and beneficial for both human and wildlife communities. Instead of drastic measures, we urge local authorities to consider non-lethal alternatives such as fertility control, habitat management, non-lethal exclusion and motion activated deterrents to ensure a harmonious relationship between the golf course activities and the kangaroo population.

They claim that there are around 600 kangaroos on the 132-acre property and plan to have 10% or around 60 animals killed. In an ideal environment a mob can be as big as 20, but on average are around 10-15 members. Benalla and northeast Victoria typically support 0.05–0.15 kangaroos per acre on open, well‑watered grazing land like golf courses. That translates to:

Low density: 1 roo per 20 acres
Medium density: 1 roo per 10 acres
High density: 1 roo per 6–8 acres

Golf courses sit at the high end because they’re irrigated, have constant short grass, offer safe open sightlines and have water sources (dams, creeks, irrigation runoff). When you apply density to your 132 acres

Low estimate (dry season / low pressure): ~15–20 kangaroos
Typical estimate: 30–45 kangaroos
High estimate (lush season / evening peak): 50–60+ kangaroos

This matches what’s seen on similar courses in regional Victoria. Golf courses usually host one main mob of 10–20, several satellite groups of 3–8 and transient individuals moving through from neighbouring properties. So, the number of 600 is a gross overstatement and the entire population of kangaroos could be culled out of existence. There was a cull there approximately 5 years ago and it has taken this long for their numbers to rebuild.  The kangaroos have the highway and neighbouring properties who shoot them to contend with.  People are comparing them to rabbits and foxes which are introduced and they deserve better than that. After all, we are the ones taking over and destroying their habitat. 

By acting with compassion and respect towards our native wildlife, Benalla can set a precedent for other communities to follow. We call upon the local government, wildlife management organizations, and the Benalla Golf Club to prioritize the well-being of these kangaroos.  There are other golf clubs around the country that have built harmonious relationships with these animals, and I urge Benalla to do the same.  

Join us in advocating for these iconic Australian marsupials by signing this petition, contacting the club itself on (03) 5762 1920 and emailing manager@benallagolfclub.com.au . Let's protect our kangaroos from becoming dog food and preserve the natural wonder of Benalla for future generations to enjoy.