URGENT UPDATE: A new koala named Poppy has just arrived at Yanchep National Park, marking a significant milestone for wildlife enthusiasts. This announcement comes alongside the naming of a joey, Djilba, born to the koala Miffy, the first joey in 15 years at the park.
Today, October 18, 2025, Butler MLA Lorna Clarke and Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn were present at the park for this double celebration. Poppy, a five-year-old female koala, hails from Ballarat Wildlife Park and is now settling into her new home, bringing excitement to visitors and conservationists alike.
The joey, Djilba, born after a successful mating between Miffy and Louie Jett, spent nearly seven months in her mother’s pouch. The name Djilba symbolizes the Noongar season of conception and new life, reflecting the ongoing efforts to enhance the park’s koala population.
The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions confirmed that Perth Zoo veterinarians assessed Poppy during her quarantine and will continue monitoring Miffy and Djilba’s health. A spokesperson stated,
“Both mother and joey are doing very well under the care of ranger staff.”
With the addition of Poppy and Djilba, the koala colony at Yanchep now consists of six members, including the 15-year-old Koodah, the last koala born before Djilba. This healthy satellite breeding population plays a vital role in national conservation efforts for koalas, a species facing various threats.
Minister Swinbourn expressed enthusiasm for this development, stating,
“It is wonderful news for staff, visitors, and wildlife enthusiasts across Western Australia, that a joey has been born at Yanchep and another koala has arrived from interstate.”
Last year, Yanchep National Park welcomed a record 460,000 visitors, and with the arrival of Poppy and Djilba, even more people are expected to flock to the park to witness this natural marvel.
Clarke highlighted the park’s enduring appeal for families, noting,
“It’s wonderful to welcome Poppy to the park. These milestones show the hard work and dedication of the rangers who care for these animals every day.”
She emphasized that now is the perfect time to visit Yanchep and experience its unique environment.
As these new arrivals settle in, the community and visitors are encouraged to support the ongoing conservation efforts at Yanchep National Park. With such significant developments, the future looks bright for the park’s koala population and its dedicated team of rangers.
