URGENT UPDATE: The highly anticipated Koala Fest has returned in 2025, uniting the community of Kurrajong to address the critical plight of Australia’s iconic koalas. After a six-year hiatus, the festival kicked off today at Memorial Park, drawing attention to urgent conservation efforts.
Organized by the Hawkesbury Environment Network in collaboration with Hawkesbury City Council, Science for Wildlife, and Greater Sydney Landcare, Koala Fest combines entertainment with an essential message of wildlife protection. Attendees can enjoy live music, family activities, workshops, and informative talks from leading conservationists.
“Koala Fest is all about raising community awareness,” said festival organizers. “It provides an opportunity for different groups fighting for koalas to network and collaborate. We hope to make it an annual event.”
Morgan Philpott, a dedicated member of the Hawkesbury WIRES Koala Rehabilitation Team, emphasized the urgency of the situation. With nearly a decade of experience rescuing and rehabilitating koalas, Philpott noted that the current mating season heightens risks for these vulnerable animals as they navigate urban areas.
“At this time of year, koalas are more mobile, often crossing roads or moving through backyards. This can lead to more encounters with koalas that may be sick or in need of help,” stated Philpott.
One of the most pressing threats to local koalas is chlamydia, a disease that significantly affects their populations. Philpott urged residents to be vigilant about recognizing symptoms. “Ocular chlamydia can present as eye discharge, swelling, or inflamed eyes. Urogenital chlamydia appears as a large, rusty-colored wet stain on a koala’s rump. Any koala showing these symptoms needs immediate medical treatment,” she stressed.
If you see a koala displaying these signs, please contact WIRES at 1300 094 737 for assistance from trained wildlife carers. Philpott also encouraged residents to implement simple safety measures: keep dogs contained at night and drive cautiously during dusk and dawn.
Koala sightings can be reported through the I Spy Koala app, or directly with WIRES and Science for Wildlife. “If you’re lucky enough to see one of our koala residents out and about, please report both healthy and unwell koala sightings,” Philpott added.
With its blend of fun, education, and advocacy, Koala Fest aims to fortify the community’s commitment to conservation. The successful return of the festival this year has sparked optimism that it will become a staple in the Hawkesbury calendar, ensuring that koalas remain a thriving part of the local ecosystem for generations to come.
As the event unfolds today, the community is reminded of the vital role they play in protecting these beloved Australian icons. Stay tuned for updates as Koala Fest 2025 continues to inspire and educate.
