Up to 20 dead animals, including koalas and dogs, have been found by council workers dumped in a Brisbane park.
The animals had significant injuries and the scene was so grisly that the council workers who made the discovery have been offered counselling.
Police were called to Toowong's Anzac Park, in Brisbane's inner west, at 6:30pm on Thursday and set up an exclusion zone, before sending the remains to the RSPCA for assessment.
"Police with the assistance of the RSPCA are investigating the location of a number of deceased animals," a police spokesperson said in a statement.
"Officers were called to a location on Wool Street after the animals, including koalas and dogs, were discovered on a grass verge.
"Investigations are underway into the cause of death and the circumstances leading up to them being left."
There were also two, 44 gallon drums next to the carcases, the contents of which was examined by police and emergency services and later deemed safe.
Brisbane Mayor Adrian Schrinner said he was saddened, disturbed and appalled by the incident.
"This is a sick act," Mr Schrinner said.
"I'm saddened, disturbed and appalled at what's occurred here, and it's now a matter for police who I hope will find the culprits so our courts can deal with them.
"I can confirm council officers who were first on the scene have been offered counselling as a result of the horrific things that they saw."
Mr Schrinner appealed to any members of the public with information to contact CrimeStoppers.
