A man in Victoria, Australia, is recovering from serious injuries after a brutal attack by a kangaroo while attempting to rescue his dog. The incident, which occurred last Thursday near Yea in the state’s northeast, left the man, identified as Col, with what he described as injuries akin to a high-speed car crash.
According to Col’s account, the ordeal began when he and a friend heard frantic barking coming from near a dam on a rural property. Upon investigation, they discovered a kangaroo attempting to seize Col’s dog. He initially intervened by striking the animal with a stick, successfully prompting it to enter the water. However, the respite was short-lived.
“He’s come out of the water like a bloody rocket and headbutted me in the face, then punched the crap out of me,” Col recounted to 3AW radio. The attack escalated rapidly, with the kangaroo knocking him to the ground and continuing the assault. “When I stood up, he’s given me what I can describe as a flying roundhouse to the back,” he said. “Then he’s jumped on me and his little gremlin hands have grabbed my head.”
Col described a terrifying struggle, during which the kangaroo maintained a firm grip on his head and repeatedly kicked him. “He wouldn’t let go and he’s just started booting the s*** out of me,” he stated. The attack lasted approximately 25 seconds before Col’s friend intervened, striking the kangaroo with a shovel and bringing it to an end.
The incident highlights the potential dangers posed by Australia’s iconic wildlife, even in seemingly benign settings. While kangaroo attacks are relatively rare, they can be exceptionally violent, particularly when animals feel threatened or are protecting themselves or their young. The circumstances surrounding this attack – a dog triggering the encounter – are not uncommon in rural areas where livestock and pets interact with wild kangaroos.
Col sustained significant injuries, including damage to his stomach and backside. He described being “embarrassingly kicked in the a*** and I’ve got a big hole on the a*** cheek.” He was subsequently transported to a hospital for treatment. Despite the severity of his injuries, Col expressed a sense of luck, stating, “I’m very lucky and if I hadn’t have rolled onto my stomach I would’ve been in a lot worse of a way.”
The attack has prompted discussion about kangaroo behaviour and safety precautions in rural communities. While kangaroos are generally not aggressive towards humans, experts caution against approaching or attempting to interact with them, particularly if they appear agitated or are with their young. Maintaining a safe distance and avoiding direct eye contact are recommended strategies for minimizing the risk of conflict.
This incident follows other recent reports of kangaroo encounters turning violent. In February 2026, news.com.au reported a similar attack on a man in Victoria, highlighting the unpredictable nature of these animals. The 9News report from details the horrific injuries sustained by Col, emphasizing the force and ferocity of the kangaroo’s assault.
The Daily Mail also covered the story, noting the attack occurred at a property near Yea. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with living in close proximity to Australia’s unique and powerful wildlife. While kangaroos are a beloved symbol of the country, encounters can quickly turn dangerous, as demonstrated by Col’s harrowing experience.
Authorities have not released any statements regarding increased kangaroo activity in the area or any plans to address potential safety concerns. However, local residents are likely to be more vigilant following this incident, and increased awareness of kangaroo behaviour may help prevent future attacks. The focus remains on Col’s recovery and a renewed appreciation for the potential dangers lurking in the Australian bush.
