Koala project group has first meeting

The first meeting for the Pearl Beach Koala Project was held last week at the Crommelin Native Arboretum at Pearl Beach.

Arboretum vice president Ms Ann Parsons said the project would investigate translocating koalas to the Pearl Beach area.

"Control of foxes, wild dogs and feral cats was highlighted as an issue that needs to be addressed before koalas can be released into the area," she said.

"There have been recent sightings of foxes in the area.

"Also, for the project to successful, dog owners need to be aware that the arboretum and Brisbane Water National Park are a no dog area."

Ms Parsons said the arboretum committee had met with Council staff and would meet with National Parks rangers in January to look at ways to control foxes.

"A survey will need to be done to ensure koalas are not already in the area before translocation can take place," she said.

"Numerous options for surveying the less accessible areas were discussed in combination with having the community take part in surveying the easily accessible areas.

"Community involvement is an important part of the project to ensure its success," she said.

The community meeting held last week was attended by Pearl Beach Progress Association vice-president Mr Malcolm Davison, University of Sydney Associate Professor Mathew Crowther, Patonga Progress Association representative Mr Peter Welch, conservationist Mr Jake Cassar and members of the Patonga and Pearl Beach communities.

The Crommelin Native Arboretum was represented by honorary ecologist Mr Robert Payne, president Ms Victoria Crawford and secretary Ms Mary Knaggs, as well as Ms Parsons.

SOURCE

Media statement, 18 Dec 2019

Ann Parsons, Crommelin Native Arboretum