Dead corella investigation update

Published on 30 April 2025

Council staff have been working since Tuesday morning to clean up dozens of dead birds—mainly corellas—discovered along the Wimmera River.

Using a boat and on-foot crews, Council workers have collected deceased birds from the river and surrounding areas. Teams have also removed grain suspected to be poisoned, using vacuum cleaners in grassed areas and covering larger patches to prevent further harm to wildlife.

The incident was immediately reported to Agriculture Victoria, which has now confirmed an investigation is underway into the cause of death of more than 50 corellas. The Conservation Regulator is assisting with the investigation.

The public is advised not to touch or move any sick or dead birds and to report sightings to DEECA by calling 136 186.

HRCC is awaiting the pathology on the type of poison used- Agriculture Victoria has sent samples in for testing.