Prestigious school’s headmaster breaks silence on allegations of students killing goanna

The school has been at the centre of shocking allegations that some students “decided it would be funny” to kill a goanna at their annual cadet camp.

The headmaster of an elite Sydney school has back-pedalled on a confirmation from his own administration that senior students had killed a native lizard on a school camping trip.

The King’s School, in North Parramatta, has been at the centre of shocking allegations that some students “decided it would be funny” to kill a goanna on their annual cadet camp in March.

In a statement released on Friday, the school confirmed the animal was killed and that they “did not condone” the behaviour of the students.

But headmaster Tony George broke his silence on the matter on Monday, ssaying the facts were yet to be established.

The King’s School headmaster Tony George said it’s ‘within the realm of possibility’ that students weren’t involved in the killing of a goanna. Picture: Supplied

“A goanna is dead; that’s certainly the case,” Mr George told 2GB Radio on Monday.

“As to how, and what was involved, we don’t actually know the details yet.”

He said there’s a “realm of possibility” the animal wasn’t tortured and killed by the students, but noted the allegation was enough to merit a police investigation.

“Schools are neither policing nor investigative agencies; we are to make ourselves available to the relevant authorities, and support them, so we do that,” Mr George said.

“It’s pretty difficult for (the students) and it’s also difficult for their families, because these kinds of things are not straightforward and simple.

“And when you've got some adolescent boys that are in the heat of the moment, trying to recollect and put that together and what could have been done differently, is all in hindsight.

“And obviously, parents are very, very concerned, you know, for their kids.”

The maximum penalty in NSW for aggravated animal cruelty is two-years prison and/or a $22,000 fine for individuals.

The King’s School charges about $24,000 for kindergarten students and up to $40,000 for year 12 students.

Those found guilty of aggravated animal cruelty in New South Wales can face up to two years prison, and fines of up to $22,000 for individuals.

Investigations are ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to call The Hills Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Originally published as Prestigious school’s headmaster breaks silence on allegations of students killing goanna