As part of the exciting redevelopment of the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital, we’re beginning essential works that will enhance the site for both koalas and visitors. This marks a significant step forward for Koala Conservation Australia (KCA), and we’re committed to ensuring that every stage of the project respects our environmental responsibilities and furthers our mission of protecting Australia’s beloved koalas.
A Learning Experience with Our Arborists
Recently, volunteers and staff had the privilege of joining experienced arborist and passionate KCA Volunteer Peter Berecry and Consulting Arborist Brett Jeffrey for a guided tree walk across the Hospital site. This educational session provided valuable insights into the upcoming tree management plans. Peter and Brett shared their deep knowledge of tree anatomy, local ecology, and the reasons behind necessary vegetation changes.
Attendees left with a greater understanding of the delicate balance between safety, conservation, and site development—highlighting the care and expertise guiding this redevelopment.
Balancing Safety and Conservation
Peter Berecry, who has nurtured many of the site’s trees over the years, expressed a heartfelt sadness at the need to remove some mature specimens. However, safety remains a top priority. Due to structural weaknesses—often the result of outdated pruning practices—some trees pose a risk to people, wildlife, and infrastructure.
Of the 160 trees currently on-site, 60 will be removed. Peter is working closely with Brett Jeffrey, the project’s consulting arborist, to ensure these removals are carried out responsibly, with minimal environmental disruption. The team is following best-practice arboriculture methods to preserve the integrity of the site wherever possible.
Enhancing the Site for Koalas and Visitors
The redevelopment is about more than removals—it’s about renewal and enhancement. Peter’s team will be taking several proactive steps to protect and improve the site:
- Soil health improvements through targeted aeration and mulching.
- Protection for over 100 retained trees, with physical barriers to prevent root compaction and mechanical damage.
- Landscape upgrades to create a space that’s not only ecologically rich but also welcoming for Hospital visitors.
Offsetting Habitat Loss: KCA’s Proactive Measures
KCA is committed to ensuring that the redevelopment benefits koalas and the broader environment long-term. To offset the loss of tree habitat, we are taking the following conservation measures:
- Installing natural hollows and nest boxes within Macquarie Nature Reserve to provide shelter for local wildlife.
- Relocating fauna from occupied hollows under the guidance of trained ecologists.
Planting 88 koala food trees near the Maria River Plantation, an area now secured under a Voluntary Conservation Agreement (VCA). - Contributing $180,000 to the NSW Biodiversity Conservation Fund to support broader habitat restoration efforts across the state.
- Introducing new plantings throughout the Hospital grounds to enrich koala habitat and enhance the site's visual appeal for visitors.
The redevelopment of the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital is more than a construction project—it’s a thoughtful transformation that will support koalas, improve visitor experiences, and educate the community for years to come. We’re proud of the careful planning behind this next chapter and grateful to everyone helping us ensure it’s done with the care and respect our environment deserves.
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