The Environment Minister has broken his silence after an entire brumby herd was wiped out in Kosciuszko National Park.

An entire herd of 11 horses, including a number of heavily-pregnant mares, were left to slowly bleed to death after an on-foot shooting believed to have occurred last Sunday.

While it has been widely suspected NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) was behind the slaughter, the department has not openly admitted responsibility.

But a new statement from Environment Minister James Griffin has Ray Hadley confident the Department was behind the shooting. (Full statement below)

“This is just disgraceful,” Ray said.

“Finally an admission that the National Parks and Wildlife Service is responsible for the deaths of those 11 brumbies.”

Press PLAY below to hear Ray’s comments in full

Former Member for Monaro Peter Cochran told Ray Hadley no respect was shown to the animals.

“This was a professional ambush.

“I’m ashamed to be an Australian associated with people who would do it.”

Press PLAY below to hear what they had to say

Environment Minister’s Full Statement:

“Wild horse control is being carried out in line with the requirements of the Wild Horse Management Plan, which was approved in 2021.

“The Plan is the result of years of consultation with stakeholders that have a range of opinions, including wild horse supporters, environmentalists and animal welfare groups.

“The Plan provides for the number of horses in Kosciuszko National Park to be reduced over time to balance the protection of their heritage values, while maintaining the exceptional conservation values of the national park.

“In response to concerns raised by some members of the community, I have asked for an evaluation of the Plan’s implementation, with the assistance of RSPCA NSW.

“I will consider the findings of the evaluation once complete.”