A turtle found after a high-speed interstate pursuit from South Australia to New South Wales has been returned safely to the wild.
The female long-neck was discovered after Broken Hill police arrested a 26-year-old man who allegedly led officers in Peterborough on a chase on Friday night along the Barrier Highway.
The chase was abandoned due to safety concerns until about 10pm, when NSW officers spotted the driver allegedly travelling at high speed.
He allegedly failed to stop when directed and another chase was initiated.
Police said the pursuit continued for approximately 25 kilometres before road spikes were deployed.
Turtle in 'good condition'
Police handed the animal, believed to be about three years old, over to the Rescue and Rehabilitation of Australian Native Animals (RRANA) group.
"She was in very good condition, no injuries," RRANA secretary Helen Semmens said.
"I believe the gentlemen who had her found her crossing the road picked her up for her safety."
After receiving the all-clear, volunteers let the young turtle go at the nearby Menindee Lakes.
Ms Semmens says turtles are spotted crossing outback highways fairly often.
"It's not unusual to find turtles wandering our streets and out on country roads," she said.
"You can often find them quite a distance from water, which is really unexpected.
"People get a bit confused.
"Often they can be left — they will find their way back to water."
The 26-year-old driver has been charged with drive recklessly on police pursuit, receiving stolen property, taking the car without the consent of the owner, as well as a prior offence of driving without a license.
He will face Broken Hill Local Court on February 4.
