Koala-proof fencing installed at Birkdale to help protect local koala population

Koala-proof fencing that will help protect the local koala population is being installed on the Old Cleveland Road East boundary of the Birkdale Community Precinct (BCP).

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the koala-proof fencing was a proactive measure that could help prevent vehicle strike of koalas and other wildlife along Old Cleveland Road East.

“Designed with input from an ecologist, the fencing will help stop koalas on the site from heading onto the busy roadway and instead guide them to move through the precinct and the Tingalpa Creek corridor,” Cr Williams said.

“In addition, koala escape poles will be installed along the fence to assist any koalas in the roadway area to enter the precinct site.”

Cr Williams said installation of the first stage of the koala-proof fencing would run from the Willards Farm homestead all the way to the northern point of the property at 380 Old Cleveland Road East.

“This is a reflection of Council’s commitment to protecting our Redlands Coast koalas and how the Birkdale Community Precinct demonstrates best practise koala management to help protect and enhance the koala population on the site,” she said.

“We have a small, healthy breeding population of koalas residing on the BCP, eight of which are collared and monitored, three with joeys.

“One of these is ‘Jazza’, a koala that was recently released onto the site, and her joey.

“A number of other koalas use the site, although we’re not sure yet whether they visit regularly or occasionally.”

Division 10 Councillor Paul Bishop said Bluetooth collars on the koalas indicated how they moved around the site.

“Partnership with research organisations helps in our understanding of which areas and trees are most favoured by koalas and enables Council to plan and develop more effective habitat enhancement projects. For example, the Gourmet Gum Leaves project being delivered in collaboration with researchers from the Australian National University,” Cr Bishop said.

“Whether it’s koala-proof fencing to help prevent death by vehicle strike, research for better nutrition, or regular health monitoring, Council is committed to working with experts on initiatives and programs that help improve conservation outcomes for this precious, endangered marsupial that is so important to our community and ecology.”