Antiques dealer fined $10,000 after raid uncovers 700 illegal native animal specimens
A Kyneton antiques dealer received a $10,000 fine after wildlife police discovered over 700 illegal native animal specimens, including 78 emus, during a raid.
In a multi-day raid in April 2025, wildlife police seized a massive collection of illegal native animal specimens from the residence and antique store of a 74-year-old dealer in Kyneton, Macedon Ranges. Investigators found more than 700 dead birds, mammals and reptiles, including 78 stuffed emus, 42 brushtail possums, 26 echidnas and several endangered species such as the barking owl, diamond python and Murray River short-necked turtle, stored across 14 freezers and shop shelves.
Fifteen live reptiles were also discovered, with six kept in conditions that breached animal-welfare standards. The dealer admitted to charges of unlawful possession, sale and unauthorised collection of wildlife, and the magistrate imposed a $10,000 fine, citing his intelligence, prior good character and limited finances. The case underscores the scale of illegal wildlife trafficking and the enforcement role of Victoria’s Conservation Regulator.
Why it matters
It reveals the extent of illegal wildlife trafficking in Australia and the legal penalties for such offenses.
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