This Sunday March 21, two local conservation groups have organised three events to participate in a statewide Koala Action Day. They hope that many locals will join in the fun and show their support for koalas in our region.

Prior to the bushfires of 2019/20, the koala populations of NSW's north coast were listed as Vulnerable. To date 8000 of our beloved icons are estimated to have been injured, displaced or died as a result of the Black Summer. The continued clearing of private and state native forest since the fires has shocked many locals.

"Koalas are an umbrella species, so by protecting koalas we are helping to preserve the entire ecology and health of our forests and water catchments," said Benn Beinssen from the Forest Ecology Alliance.

"These sub-tropical, lowland state forests are priceless, biodiverse assets owned by the public, however they are being fragmented and chipped away at by agencies who do not see their true value," said researcher Dr Tim Cadman

With the weakening of much-needed koala protection in the recent State Environmental Planning Policy 2021, FEA will be holding events in Nambucca Heads on Sunday March 21 to galvanize public support for protecting koala populations.

People are very welcome to join in any of the three outdoor events planned. Ecologists and citizen scientists look forward to answering questions about koalas and their biodiverse forest habitats.

8.30am - 9.30am ROADSIDE SAVE OUR KOALAS VIGIL "Honk for Habitat"

Bring a sign or we have many to share). At Nambucca Information Centre, Cnr Riverside Drive and Giinagay Way, Nambucca Heads. On-site or street parking available.

9.30am - 12.00pm FOREST BUSH WALK

Meet at address above (Nambucca Information Centre) to drive to a bushwalk in koala habitat in Nambucca State Forest. Please wear bushwalking shoes and bring your own snacks and drinks.

12.30pm - 2.30pm PICNIC & information stalls

Bring a rug, a picnic and perhaps your swimmers. Stuart Island, Nambucca Heads. Near Nambucca island Golf Club. On-site parking available.

In the event of wet weather conditions please see our Facebook page @forestecologyalliance for updates.

Disabled access is assured at roadside vigil and picnic, but you may need additional assistance in some areas of the forest walk.

Please observe all COVID safety precautions, stay home if you are unwell and maintain 1.5m distance between friends.

For further details see

Facebook @forestecologyalliance

Email: forestecologyalliance@gmail.com