“Koala-ty” new safe haven in Moreton Bay

Published 24 September 2024

City of Moreton Bay and Queensland Government have signed a Conservation Agreement to officially preserve the Samsonvale Koala Nature Refuge as a habitat for our local wildlife.

Mayor Peter Flannery said he’s proud to have taken the next step in this critical project.

“We’ve spent over five years rehabilitating this site to become a suitable habitat for our local koala population to call home,” he said.

“Through our Green Infrastructure Program, we've planted over 7,000 new trees – creating the perfect haven for our beloved koalas to thrive.

“This piece of land is particularly special as it bridges two sections of the North Pine Dam Nature Refuge, providing a vital wildlife corridor that connects them to other areas across Moreton Bay.

“This habitat is crucial for koalas and other wildlife to breed and grow, boosting local populations, and with breeding season underway, you might already spot our cute Aussie koalas out and about more often.

“It's more important than ever to protect our koalas and Council will continue to maintain the land and ensure the safety of our local wildlife.

“This agreement ensures sustainable land management practices while allowing some compatible land uses.

“It is a perpetual commitment by Council and the State Government, meaning the conservation obligations continue forever.

“Nature refuges help protect biodiversity and contribute to a network of protected areas across Queensland.

“I’d like to thank the State Government for signing this Conservation Agreement and helping ensure this site will be protected forever, and together we can preserve our local flora and fauna for future generations.”

Member for Pine Rivers Nikki Boyd congratulated City of Moreton Bay on the Samsonvale Koala Nature Refuge initiative.

“I’ve worked closely with City of Moreton Bay to protect this green corridor used by our iconic koalas to move between habitats,” Ms Boyd said.

“This former cattle-run is now part of a network of 575 declared nature refuges, including five million hectares of private land with natural and cultural importance.

“The State Government has boosted investment in the SEQ Koala Conservation Strategy to $31 million over four years to safeguard the places where koalas thrive.

“It’s another example of the Government doing what matters to protect koalas for future generations of Queensland families and international visitors.”

Find more information about Koalas in Moreton Bay.