By JOLENE OGLE
KOALA lovers are in for a treat with Queensland Koala Crusaders president Meghan Halverson set to speak at U3A tomorrow, from 1.45pm.
The talk is open to the public and will begin with the screening of documentary Making Room for the Koala, co-produced by Meghan in 2012.
The documentary explores the effects of development, disease and devastation that the koala has faced in Australia and tells the story of a koala named Burman.
Well-known for her work with the endangered animal, Meghan said the talk would also involve a group discussion to develop ideas for better koala conservation.
“We will discuss ideas for a brighter future for the koala,” she said.
“We welcome input and ideas that create community action for conservation measures of the koalas and their habitat.
“Our motto is ‘What is best for koalas?’ and I believe that we have to let go of the past and learn from it.”
Meghan said a co-operative community approach would help secure the future of the beloved marsupial.
“We must move forward despite differences to find a common ground to work together to improve conservation outcomes,” she said.
Meghan said the community needed to act now because “we are at a tipping point” for the koala with the animal predicted to be extinct within two years if no action is taken.
“If we look to preserve habitat and connect what still exists, create safe havens for those koalas that are non-releasable and support the efforts of the groups acting to do what is best for koalas, then perhaps they have a brighter future through our collective efforts,” she said.
Meghan’s talk will take place at the U3A House located at 64 Poinciana Avenue, Tewantin, tomorrow from 1.45pm. Admission to the talk is only $4 and includes afternoon tea and bookings are not required.
