Queensland Koala Crusaders (QKC) has succeeded in its first community workshop to highlight the problems facing Noosa’s koala population and enlist koala rescuers who will undertake training to help retain the iconic species, but more rescuers are sought.
More than 60 people attended last month’s workshop at RACV Noosa Resort to hear from experts on koala research and conservation in the region. It was part of a series of events being run by QKC and sponsored by Noosa Council.
“The biggest issues are habitat loss and fragmentation, disease, dogs attacks and car accidents. The constant flow of traffic along Eenie Creek Road, Weyba Road and McKinnon Drive is particularly problematic for the koala population around Noosa. To improve the situation, the researchers, tracking teams, rescuers and health facilities must work as a team with the local community and stakeholders,” QKC president Meghan Halverson said.
A rescue training day, led by Anika Lehmann from Moreton Bay Koala Rescue and Rachel Lyons from Wildcare Australia, will be held on 28 April at the Noosa District Landcare offices at Pomona Futures Centre.
“We are really keen to expand the group of trained koala rescuers in the wider Noosa region so that we can provide a more efficient 24-hour local service and improve koala outcomes,” Ms Lyons said.
“Our next workshop will provide participants with general wildlife rescue and first aid knowledge, along with specific information, rescue techniques, practices and procedures for koalas”
Further training, including tree climbing, will be offered later in the year.
