Five wombats have been found dead at a vandalised campground in South Gippsland in what has been labelled by Victorian authorities as a "disgraceful act".
The dead animals were discovered at Turtons Creek, along with a burnt picnic table, spray-painted trees, dumped rubbish and a sign that had been destroyed by a shotgun.
Forest Fire Management Victoria said they believed the damage was done on June 29 or 30, when one or more four-wheel-drive vehicles were at the campground.
Assistant chief fire officer for Gippsland, Chris Stephenson, said the wombats were likely shot or run over by a four-wheel drive.
"It's obviously been some people out there doing the wrong thing and have got a bit carried away, but it's quite disturbing to find five dead wombats, plus all the other damage at that recreation site," he said.
"Shooting up a sign seems to be a common occurrence, which is disturbing. It's dangerous.
"There could be other people in the vicinity, they could be injured or worse still, so it's quite disturbing behaviour."
Mr Stephenson has called on the public for any information on suspicious behaviour in the area.
Anyone with information can contact Crime Stoppers or the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning.
