Tweed Shire Council urges community to unite in protecting region’s koalas

During this critical koala breeding season, the Northern Rivers Regional Partnership, which includes Tweed Shire Council, Friends of the Koala and other local councils is leading a coordinated regional campaign to reduce vehicle strikes and protect koalas.

Tweed Shire Council notes “When our koalas are out and about searching for love and new territory, they travel further and cross more roads increasing their risk of being hit by vehicles. Sadly, in 2024 alone, over 67 koalas were killed on roads in the Northern Rivers. For an endangered species, every loss is significant.”

As part of this joint effort, Variable Message Sign (VMS) boards are being deployed across koala hotspots, reminding drivers to slow down and stay alert. A coordinated social media campaign, led by councils and Friends of the Koala will reinforce the message that every driver’s actions can help save lives.

Dr Kate Thomas, Superintendent Vet at Friends of the Koala advised “Koalas are especially active during breeding season and many are forced to cross roads to reach vital habitat.

“Sadly, around 80% of koalas hit by vehicles do not survive, even with emergency care.”

Marama Hopkins, Conservation Planning Officer at Tweed Shire Council added “This is about all of us stepping up together, governments, organisations, and community.

“By working in partnership, we can increase awareness, target key areas, and make a real difference for koalas on our roads.”

For the protection of the koalas Tweed Shire Council is urging drivers to slow down, especially at dawn and dusk when koalas are most active. If you spot a koala near or on the road, please call either Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers on 02 6672 4789 or Friends of the Koala on 02 6622 1233 immediately, at any time of day or night. Drivers should also take extra care in rural and semi-rural areas and keep dogs contained at night.

Image. Koala crossing the road at Nunderi. Credit: Tweed Shire Council/Rich Moody.