Port Macquarie Koala Hospital Redevelopment Update - 14 May 2025

Over the past fortnight, we’ve made significant progress on the Koala Hospital Port Macquarie redevelopment, marking a new chapter in our commitment to koala care and conservation.

Koalas Relocated to Guulabaa

The most important step has been successfully completed—our resident koalas have been safely relocated to Guulabaa. The transition went smoothly, and the koalas are now settling into their new environment. We're grateful for the support and understanding from our community during this vital process.

Preparing the Site

Last week, we set up temporary fencing around the hospital site and completed the relocation of our staff and volunteers. All the koala yard fencing has now been removed, clearing the way for the next stages of the project. The temporary fencing will remain in place for the duration of the redevelopment works to ensure safety for everyone involved.

Tree Removal Underway

This week we began the difficult but necessary process of tree removal. While we’re saddened to see some of our trees go, we’re taking every possible measure to reduce the impact of this loss. These efforts include:

• Creating new wildlife hollows
• Replanting and long-term tree protection at our Maria River Plantation
• Contributing to the Biodiversity Conservation Fund (BCF)

You can learn more about the BCF and its important work here.

An experienced arborist is overseeing all tree works to ensure the more than 100 trees being retained are carefully protected throughout the process. Tree removal is expected to take 3–4 weeks and will involve cranes and heavy machinery, so visitors can expect increased noise during working hours.

To minimise disruption, all contractor access to the site will be via Lord Street, reducing traffic along Little Owen Street and around the Roto Historic House.

What’s Next

Once the tree works are complete, we’ll move straight into the demolition and construction phase, currently scheduled to begin in June 2025. While the timing is subject to weather, approvals, and contractor scheduling, we’re excited to continue moving forward.

We’ll keep you updated with each major milestone. Thank you for your ongoing support and patience as we redevelop the hospital into a world-class facility for koala care and conservation.

Stay tuned!