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RESIDENTS of Port Macquarie have growing concerns over the increase in kangaroo attacks in the Clifton and racecourse areas. Earlier this week the Port News reported a New Year's day incident in which teenager Robbie Morrell was set upon by a large male roo and suffered lacerations to his body and face. On Tuesday evening Doncaster Avenue resident Allen Dennis was taking an afternoon walk around the block when he was set upon by the large animal and had only a wheelie bin to protect him from the attack. At 67, had it not been for the bin, the outcome could have been far worse he believes. "If I didn't have any bin there I think I would have been in a lot of trouble," Mr Dennis said. "I'd hope people take these warnings on board and be vigilant. There was no reason for him to attack me. You just don't think it would happen." He was confronted by four kangaroos on Lady Nelson Drive directly opposite the racecourse. Thankfully a neighbour had not yet removed their bins from the curb, providing a lucky escape for Mr Dennis. "One of the big males came straight for me, so I held the bin up and he crashed into it," he said. "He was furious and charged again. After this he went back to the group and they all hopped off." Other incidents in the same area where brought to attention in September last year. Gwyn Richardson had an encounter with a 1.8 metre roo, while Mellissa Roughley's son Kieran was attacked in the same area. Lawrence Orel from Parks and Wildlife Service NSW warned people to treat wildlife with respect as they are wild animals that will react instinctively. "While it's clear that lots of people enjoy seeing the animals in their landscapes it is important to appreciate that as wild animals they can react," he said. "It is important for people not to encourage them in anyway. Do not feed them, as they will lose their natural fear of humans and view them as a source of food." Humans can be viewed as competition to male roos, perhaps a reason for their attacks in recent times. "They will react instinctively and the safest way for people to treat them is to be aware of their potential and give them plenty of space," Mr Orel said. "Use common sense. Look for other routes if you do come upon them on walks." All incidents of conflicts should be reported to the local Parks and Wildlife Service.

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