IT wasn't the way he every imagined his new year would start, but Robbie Morrell is just happy to have survived an attack by a large kangaroo.
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The Port Macquarie man was walking home at approximately 6.30am on New Year's morning when he was set upon by the male roo.
It took place near the park on The Jib, close to the racecourse. He suffered several lacerations to his body and face.
"I was about 50 metres from the kangaroo. I walked past it and heard it growl before I noticed that it was slowly coming towards me," he said.
"Suddenly he charged at me. I leaped out of the way and tried to dodge its kick.
"I've taken a punch at it and its claw grazed me on the face. It had another go and got me on the stomach before hopping away."
Apart from the scratches and shock Mr Morrell is fine, however wanted to warn others after the incident.
"I was in a bit of shock. They don't seem to attack and they are normally pretty placid," he said. "When I arrived home and it kind of hit me that it had just happened. He was probably a bit taller than me and very strong. It had the potential to be a lot worse than it was."
Robbie's mother Sarah wanted to ensure that people - and particularly parents - were extra careful.
The very next day, she herself was chased briefly by a kangaroo - which she presumes to be the same one that attacked her son near the children's park.
"We've lived around the area for 10 years or so and have never seen an attack," she said. "We don't worry about them, we know not to go near them. It actually came after him and pursued him which was shocking.
"I was also chased the next day while walking over near the racecourse.
"Basically I'd like to make people aware of what happened so they can be careful, especially with young kids around near the play ground where it happened."
The Office of Environment and Heritage said while kangaroo attacks are relatively low, there are ways to minimise the risk including avoiding roos that are growling or clucking, standing tall in front of one of the animals or walking directly towards them.
Do not walk directly towards a kangaroo.
Do not stand up tall, stare or hold your arms out towards a kangaroo.
Do not go near kangaroos engaged in courtship or mating behaviour for example, males sniffing, touching or moving round with females.
Do not go near male kangaroos that are sparring, fighting or showing off their size and strength to each other.
Do not go near a kangaroo that is growling or clucking.
