“Our local koala population is iconic but in decline, so every single life we save matters.”

And, with that sentiment, Port Stephens MP Kate Washington welcomed the completion of stage two mitigation works on Port Stephens Drive at Taylors Beach this week.

With more than $1.5 million contributed by the NSW Government, the project – supported by Port Stephens Council, Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary, Koala Koalition, NSW Department of Planning and Transport for NSW – will provide better protection for the much-loved marsupials from the risk of vehicle strike.

Approximately four kilometres of newly-installed fencing is expected to prevent koalas from crossing the road, directing them and other wildlife to use the nearby culvert.

Additionally, three grids also ensure the thoroughfare is not accessible at intersections.

Another 22 one-way koala escape structures along the fence line will allow them to climb back to safety if they accidentally enter the roadway.

“Koalas are beloved members of our community,” Ms Washington said.

“So, I’m delighted the NSW Government has been able to partner with Port Stephens Council to make their movements safer.

“While these works enable koalas to safely access habitat without the threat of being struck on the road, it’s important to remember that we all have a part to play in keeping them safe from harm on our roads.

“Motorists can do their bit by slowing down and taking care while driving within known koala hotspots, particularly at dusk, dawn and during the breeding season when they are often on the move.”

Port Stephens deputy mayor, and the Comprehensive Koala Plan of Management chair, Leah Anderson agreed with her local member.

“I am proud that this project was initiated from a motion that came out of one of council’s Comprehensive Koala Plan of Management Committee meetings back in 2019,” she said.

“Council will continue working with our partners to identify future opportunities for conserving and enhancing our local koala population.

“We’ve recently started a Landholder Partnership Program to encourage community members on private land to work with us to provide safe environments for them.

“We are seeking land managers to plant food and shelter trees, and remove weeds, to create koala-friendly backyards.

“Those who register for the initiative before 30 October will go in the draw to win a stay at the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary.”

For more community stories:

• Newcastle duo ‘paying it forward’ with 400KMS for Kids
• Flood recovery works begin on The Inlet Road at Bulga
• Council delivering vital upgrades to NSW RFS stations ahead of bushfire season

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