23/02/2026
For all who stand with kangaroos and hold their lives sacred, JUSTICE HAS BEEN DELIVERED! 👨⚖️
On 23 February 2026, Michael Anthony Holmes, 61, was sentenced to 15 MONTHS IN PRISON — with an 8 MONTH NON PAROLE PERIOD — for dragging a kangaroo 400 metres behind his vehicle on 13 April 2025.
The female kangaroo, found alive but severely deformed with a rope still around her neck, suffered agonizing injuries consistent with being dragged along a road. She was discovered by a neighbour on Millynn Road in Bywong, NSW, and reported to Wildcare Queanbeyan where rescuers were horrified. Natalie Patrick, macropod co-ordinator, said the trauma was unlike anything seen in decades. The kangaroo was rushed to Possumwood Wildlife Hospital in Bungendore, but succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival. 💔
Holmes showed NO REMORSE calling kangaroos “complete vermin” and “jumping rats,” and admitted he only regretted being caught.
Magistrate Roger Clisdell condemned his actions as “ABSOLUTELY APPALLING,” stating Holmes posed an ongoing risk to wildlife and had “every strong impression he’s likely to do it again.” The court heard he had hours to call for help but CHOSE CRUELTY instead. 😡
Outside Queanbeyan Local Court, members of the Animal Justice Party ACT stood in silent protest, holding a sign reading “END THE KANGAROO CULL”. Gill Jewell and other advocates voiced deep concern over Holmes’ mindset and the broader threat to native animals.
Their presence, and yours, sent a clear message: KANGAROOS ARE NOT PESTS —THEY ARE BEINGS WHO DESERVE MERCY, PROTECTION AND JUSTICE.
This victory was made possible by the courage and dedication of many. Thank you to Wildcare Queanbeyan for their rapid response and unwavering advocacy, to Possumwood Wildlife Hospital for giving this poor kangaroo every chance, and to Magistrate Roger Clisdell for delivering a sentence that reflects the gravity of this crime. And to the 18,500 people who signed the Change.org petition — your voices echoed in court and proved that COMPASSION FOR WILDLIFE CANNOT BE SILENCED.
May this moment bring comfort to all who care deeply for our kangaroos and the protection of wildlife. JUSTICE WAS SERVED — not just in court, but in the collective voice of compassion that refused to stay silent. Thank you 🙏🦘
📷 - Possumwood (injured kangaroo)
Read more at:
https://www.9news.com.au/national/man-jailed-for-dragging-tied-up-roo-along-country-road/6dfee43e-d850-4b52-af0a-0af3a5540215
