We are thrilled to share the latest strides from our groundbreaking “Burnett Koala Program,” the first large-scale koala conservation initiative in the Burnett catchment.
Objective: Enhancing our understanding of inland Burnett koalas’ population dynamics and health to inform effective conservation and recovery strategies.
Unprecedented Initiative: Developing a baseline dataset through non-invasive DNA testing of community-collected scats. Building on BCCA citizen science, we’re systematically recording and disseminating incidental koala observations.
Regional Impact: Contributing to the significant CSIRO modeling and Queensland Government mapping efforts in the Burnett region.
Timeline: Project continues until January 2025, with population demographics and health insights expected by November 2024.
Current Achievements:
– 43,450kmΒ² Total Project Area: 25% larger than South-East QLD.
– 64 Scat Samples Collected: Community actively involved in DNA testing.
– 86% of Public Access Koala Observations Recorded: 406 to date.
– Regional Workshops Delivered: Strengthening community engagement.
– Ongoing Education Campaign: Empowering our community to be stewards of koala conservation.
Government Support: The continuation of this program is made possible with the support of the Australian Government‘s koala fund.
Exciting times ahead as we continue making strides for the survival and prosperity of our beloved koalas!