RSPCA Victoria inspectorate team leader for western Victoria Sharna Fitt confirmed the organisation was not taking part in the investigation.

“RSPCA Victoria is not involved in this investigation and, therefore, it would not be appropriate for us to comment on this particular case,” she said.

“However, any deliberate cruelty towards wildlife, or any animal, is sickening.

“Anyone found guilty of aggravated cruelty under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act faces fines up to $77,730 or two years’ imprisonment.”

Koroit wildlife foster carer and Warrnambool Wildlife Rescue Group member Tracey Wilson said she was not surprised when she heard the news about what had happened.

“It’s disappointing, particularly in a city like Warrnambool,” she said.

Ms Wilson said she had come across similar horrible incidents in her wildlife caring roles, including ‘scalping’ of wallabies.

Recent development and the lack of green spaces in Warrnambool was also causing the displacement of wildlife, she said.

Ms Wilson said most people appreciated Warrnambool’s unique wildlife.

“Warrnambool is lucky because we’ve got the coast as well as the bush not far away,” she said. “You can see koalas and wallabies then drive for five minutes and see a penguin – it would be nice if people appreciated that.”

EARLIER: A decapitated young wallaby was found near Thunder Point in Warrnambool this morning by a couple on a walk.

Police believe the gruesome injury was the result of a deliberate act, and said it was likely the incident had either occurred nearby or the animal had been dumped at the spot.

The wallaby was found near the former harness racing club on MacDonald Street.

Warrnambool Police First Constable Brett Thornton said he believed the incident took place overnight.

“It’s basically a case of aggravated cruelty,” he said. “It’s quite a serious matter.”

First Constable Thornton said it was a tourist area, so for tourists or young families to come across the scene would be “appalling”.

He urged witnesses who saw vehicles in the area acting suspiciously or any other information to contact Warrnambool Police on 5560 1333.