In the Scenic Rim and Ipswich area, where koala populations face increasing threats, amongst which is habitat fragmentation, two landholders are making a significant difference through their participation in the Protecting Koalas project. Our recent site visits with a representative from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, who funds this important work, revealed inspiring stories of dedication and transformation.

From barren ground to biodiversity hotspot

Our first visit took us to a property that had been severely degraded due to the accumulation of unwanted materials, including scrap metal. The couple who purchased it had undertaken the enormous task of rebuilding everything from scratch. Their commitment to biodiversity was evident in every decision they've made.

"We've been approached multiple times by neighbouring farmers wanting to use our land for pasture," they explained, "but that's not why we're here. We want this land to be a sanctuary for native wildlife."

The trees on this property were planted in spring 2024, and despite being relatively new, they're showing an impressive 95% survival rate. Their faces lit up as they described the bird species they can’t wait to return to their property.

Our Environmental Project Manager Leonard Ainsworth showing the extent of the planting (arrow on the right).

A landscape reborn

The second property we visited (in the Ipswich Regional Council area) has an even longer history of restoration. Purchased in 1979 after being used as a mining site, the owner has spent decades gradually restoring it to a natural state. In 2023, through the Protecting Koalas Project, with support from Healthy Land & Water and funding from the Australian Government, 5,000 new trees were planted to further increase the koala habitat.

Walking through the property, we were shown previous plantings from an earlier conservation project. The trees were now impressively large and thriving, demonstrating the long-term success possible with proper care and planning.

Drone shot showing part of the planted area.

When we reached the site of our current koala habitat works, evidence of recent flooding was visible with debris gathered at the base of the planted trees. Despite this challenge, the plants looked remarkably healthy.

"The floods have actually been glorious for the plants," the landowner explained with enthusiasm. "They keep growing stronger every day."

Debris left on eucalypt.

Fighting invasive species with knowledge and determination

One of the most interesting aspects of the second property was seeing the owner's battle against Cat's Claw Creeper, an invasive vine that threatens native vegetation by smothering it. She proudly showed us areas where she consistently works on preventing the weed from spreading. The Cat’s claw had been chain-sawed to prevent it from spreading from the creek banks to the restoration site.

"I call it giving them a haircut," she said with a smile, demonstrating her practical approach to conservation.

 The “haircut”.

Looking across the creek to a neighbouring property, overwhelmed by Cat's Claw, showed how important local knowledge can be. One side of the creek was thriving with native plants, while the other struggled with invasive weeds.

Passion for conservation drives success

What struck us most during both visits was the genuine passion these landholders have for conservation – their dedication comes purely from a desire to restore biodiversity and create habitat for native wildlife, including koalas.

Landholders like the ones we met are the backbone of the Protecting Koalas in Areas of Regional Koala Significance (ARKS) project. With support from Healthy Land & Water and funding from the Australian Government, they're making a real difference in protecting and restoring quality habitat for koalas in South East Queensland.

As we continue the third phase of this conservation program, these inspiring examples remind us of the difference committed individuals can make when equipped with knowledge, support, and a passion for preserving our unique environment, its value and wildlife.

Each project has been funded by the Australian Government. The most recent project is funded by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water Saving Koalas Fund.
Other key project collaborators on our koala projects include the Queensland Government Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, Queensland Trust for Nature, local governments, Traditional Owners and Landcare and community groups.