Sam Jones, a hunting enthusiast from Montana, departed Australia today amidst controversy. Jones faced severe backlash following the circulation of a video in which she was seen taking a baby wombat from its distressed mother on the roadside. The footage sparked outrage from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and wildlife advocates, with the Prime Minister condemning her actions as “outrageous.”
In response to the incident, the Department of Home Affairs announced that it was reviewing Jones’s tourist visa before her departure. Albanese expressed deep concern over the distress caused to the mother wombat and suggested that Jones attempt to handle a more formidable Australian animal instead. His comments aimed to highlight the irresponsibility of her actions.
While the specific airport from which Jones left Australia has not been disclosed, her actions have ignited significant debate over the treatment of native wildlife and the responsibilities of tourists. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke noted the day’s significance for wombat babies across the country, reinforcing the need for greater awareness about wildlife protection.