Celebrating the Heart of Koala Conservation: Our Volunteers - Meet Mick

In 2026, we’re proud to celebrate International Volunteer Year by shining a light on the people who make our work possible — our extraordinary volunteers.

Behind every koala rescued, every joey nurtured, every visitor welcomed and every tree planted, there is a volunteer giving their time, energy and heart to protect Australia’s koalas. Their contributions are as diverse as the roles they play, but they are united by a shared love for wildlife and a deep commitment to making a difference.

Throughout the year, we’ll be sharing the stories of individual volunteers from across Koala Conservation Australia (KCA) — the carers, rescuers, guides, educators, maintenance team, behind-the-scenes helpers and advocates who show up day after day, often quietly and without fanfare. Through these stories, you’ll meet the people behind the passion and learn what inspires them, what volunteering means to them, and why they choose to stand up for koalas.

This series is our way of saying thank you — and of celebrating the community spirit that drives conservation forward. We hope these stories inspire you as much as these volunteers inspire us.

Stay tuned as we begin this year-long celebration of the people who truly are the heart of koala conservation. 💛

Meet Mick Feeney

(second from the left in the picture)

Tell us a bit about yourself and your role at KCA

I was born in Ireland and made my way to Australia in 1974 — via a very long road trip. My older sister Anne, her husband and I drove from the UK to Australia in a Kombi van over 289 days.

I lived in Perth for a few years after arriving, then spent time in Canberra and Tasmania before heading back to the mainland to work on a cattle feedlot in WA. Somewhere along the way, I returned to Ireland for a few years and fell back into my trade of bookbinding — though I also squeezed in a few other fascinating jobs, including tour guiding, concierge work in a small hotel, and even polishing stents (yes, the ones that go into clogged arteries!).

In 2011, I returned to Australia again, eventually landing in Port Macquarie via the Sunshine Coast, Old Bar — and a hip replacement.

My connection to Koala Conservation Australia began in 2012, thanks to my sister Anne, who was volunteering at the Koala Hospital Port Macquarie at the time and encouraged me to get involved. My first team leader was Amanda Gordon, who — through her connection to the Players Theatre — also drew me into the world of theatre, where I’ve enjoyed set building, backstage work and the occasional (mercifully rare) walk-on role.

These days, I get to pursue my two great loves: koala care and theatre… and, of course, meeting and chatting with visitors — though I suppose that last part comes naturally, being Irish.

How long have you been volunteering with KCA?

2026 marks my 14th year!

Why did you start volunteering at KCA?

A wee nudge from my sister Anne - also a volunteer - and I was hooked!

What is your background and experience outside of KCA?

A bookbinder by trade and then the various occupations already mentioned

Were you new to the area when you joined? Has volunteering helped you meet new people?

I was a frequent visitor to Port visiting siblings and going to Players Theatre so I had a head start when I moved permanently

Are you able to use your skills (eg trade, admin etc) in your volunteer role?

Apart from the love I have for koalas in care I have an abiding love and interest in people (there's that Irish streak again!) so it's a marriage made in heaven!

What's something that people don't realise about volunteering at KCA?

That age is no barrier providing people are reasonably fit and most importantly, dedicated. Also, that it can be addictive... and there's no known cure (thank God!)!!

Mick in the Lake Innes Nature Reserve fireground looking for bushfire affected koalas

What does your role involve day to day?

I do 2, sometimes 3, mornings a week where I prepare and distribute leaf to the patients/residents before doing 'room service' in the enclosures. And where possible, I like to engage with visitors and enhance their experience.

I also spent 2 years as Media Co-Ordinator where I worked with media outlets from Japan, Korea, Singapore, Germany Ireland's Gaelic Language TV, Great Craic and the BBC with Michael Portillo!... oh and Bondi Vet Chris Brown!

What's the most rewarding part?

Pretty much all of the above but especially when I'm in a one-to-one situation handfeeding patients... just the patient and me... they're the moment I recognise and never tire of.

How does your role help support koala conservation?

From doing the seemingly mundane duties to showing my passion for what KCA and the volunteers do every day including the enormous contribution of our vets... they are our light on the hill.

What does being part of this community mean to you?

One word: EVERYTHING.

What would you say to someone thinking of volunteering at KCA?

Feel the apprehension and do it... the looks in the eyes of our visitors will confirm that what you do is a special privilege... something they'd love to experience.