The Hunter Koala Preservation Society (HKPS) was formed in June 1987 to assist in the management of the Port Stephens koala population, which was seen to be facing an increased threat from development and loss of habitat. People run the society purely voluntarily from all over the shire. Their activities include tree planting, educational programmes in schools, public awareness campaigns, as well as liasing with researchers, veterinarians, and Native Animal Trust carers that cover aspects of koala health and welfare.
The initial objective of the society was the protection of koala habitat in the shire. Because very little information is available about the koala in the wild, it is hoped that by compiling autopsy statistics and records of sick and injured animals, a better management of this unique Australian marsupial will evolve.
In June of 1999, after a series of koala deaths in Port Stephens, the Hunter Koala Preservation Society was called in to increase the protection of koalas in the area. It was feared that if population decline continued at the existing rate there would be no koalas in Port Stephens in 2004. The HKPS president Jill Taylor called on the council to implement its koala management plan to identify threats and outline conservation methods.
In May 2000 the HKPS called on the State and Federal Governments to follow in the footsteps of the United States and list the koala as an endangered species. This US listing came after nearly a decade of scientific submissions to the US Government from Australians. Jill Taylor said that the US decision should be commended and should serve as a wake up call for all Australian Governments. Mrs Taylor said that the loss of habitat was killing koalas in the area promoted as the 'koala capital of New South Wales'. The federal Government criticised the US's move, alleging the US endangered species listing was inappropriate and unnecessary.
Jill Taylor urges motorists to be on the lookout for koalas wandering on the road. Koalas are particularly active during the breeding season that runs from August until February. She advises motorists to contact a vet or a carer if they come across an injured koala. Many of the injured koalas crawl off into the bush with broken legs and broken jaws and die because they cannot eat or are in shock.
The HKPS has worked with Port Stephens Council, Australian Koala Foundation and National Parks and Wildlife Services in assisting to establish a Koala Management
Jill Taylor with Miller.
Plan for Port Stephens. Other works include the successful rezoning of land for environmental protection of koala habitat on the Tilligerry Peninsula in Port Stephens, plus maintaining a database of sick, injured koalas and autopsy statistics which will aid in assisting us to manage this unique Australian marsupial.
Port Stephens Council has a tree Preservation order in place. All trees give shelter from predators and adverse weather conditions. People can help maintain a habitat for our koalas by planting koala food trees if possible and by trying to ensure that the trees they do need are not destroyed.
Enquiries can be directed to Mrs Taylor on (02) 4984 5168.
The Native Animal Trust can be contacted on 0500 502 294.
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