Our local region is recognised as one of 19 koala strongholds in New South Wales.
Camera trap in action, monitoring koala activity
Our monitoring cameras have recently recorded koalas using the underpass at Ocean Drive (Link Road). While we’ve long suspected movement in this area, this is the first time we’ve been able to confirm koalas actively using this safe crossing, a key feature of the Link Road Koala Plan of Management (KPoM). This exciting milestone shows the value of these structures in protecting our wildlife and guiding future conservation actions.
What are KPoMs?
Koala Plans of Management (KPoMs) are essential tools for protecting koalas and their habitats. These plans, required under NSW legislation in areas with significant koala populations, aim to conserve natural vegetation and create safe, sustainable environments for koalas. This specific sighting relates to the Link Road KPoM, which outlines strategies to minimise road strike risks, improve habitat quality, and monitor koala activity along critical corridors.
How else we're supporting our koalas
Our local region is recognised as one of 19 koala strongholds in New South Wales. Our Koala Action Plan identifies key factors impacting local koala populations and outlines strategies to achieve positive change.
These efforts address key threats to koalas, including habitat loss, road strikes, disease, and dog attacks.
Actions in this plan include:
- Habitat restoration: We’re improving the quality of koala habitat through replanting and managing invasive weeds in key areas.
- Monitoring and data collection: Our use of camera traps and visual surveys helps us better understand koala activity and ensures the effectiveness of protective measures like the Link Road underpass.
- Educational campaigns: We’re installing new educational signage to highlight koala corridors (stay tuned for more info!) and assisting our community in adopting koala-friendly behaviours through a variety of education campaigns and school programs.
These steps are designed to create a safer and more sustainable environment for our koalas now and into the future.
What can you do to help?
Download the iSpy Koala app to log your koala sightings. This is a fun and educational activity for the whole family, especially during school holidays. Just remember to stay safe and keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
If you spot a koala in distress, contact the Koala Hospital 24/7 hotline immediately on 02 6584 1522. Quick action can save a koala’s life. Keep their emergency number handy and ensure your family knows what to do.
Engage the kids with our free downloadable Little Legends Passport activity booklet, which includes an adventure about how to care for our koalas.
Road strikes are a significant threat to our local koala population. Take the Drive with Care Be Koala Aware pledge to commit to safe driving practices in koala habitat areas. Slow down and stay alert, particularly at dawn and dusk.
Protect our koalas by keeping your pets on leads, especially when walking near bushland. Read more in our blog, Taking the Lead to Reduce Koala-Dog Attacks.
You can help koalas navigate safely through your property by making a few simple adjustments:
- Fence Modifications: Ensure your fences have gaps or climbing supports like wooden poles or logs to allow koalas to pass through or over them. Solid fences can trap or deter koalas from accessing vital habitat.
- Swimming Pool Safety: Install pool escape devices, such as a sturdy branch or purpose-built ramp, to give koalas a way to climb out if they accidentally fall in.
By working together as a community, we can ensure that our koalas remain a thriving part of our local environment. Every action contributes to their protection and helps secure their future for generations to come. Let’s continue to care for our furry friends and the unique ecosystem they call home.
