Community urged to slow down as koala breeding season begins

KOALA breeding season is approaching across the Northern Rivers, and local councils and Friends of the Koala are asking drivers to help reduce road deaths.

The Northern Rivers Regional Partnership, which includes Tweed Shire Council, Friends of the Koala and other councils, is leading a coordinated campaign to protect koalas during the busy breeding months.

As koalas travel further to find mates and new territory, they cross more roads, increasing their risk of being hit by vehicles.

In 2024, more than 67 koalas were killed on Northern Rivers roads.

Dr Kate Thomas, superintendent vet at Friends of the Koala, said road trauma is one of the biggest threats during breeding season.

“Koalas are especially active during breeding season and many are forced to cross roads to reach vital habitat,” she said.

“Sadly, around 80 percent of koalas hit by vehicles do not survive, even with emergency care.”

Variable message sign boards will be set up across known koala hotspots, warning drivers to slow down, and councils will run a social media campaign to raise awareness.

Marama Hopkins, conservation planning officer at Tweed Shire Council, said the campaign was about combining efforts.

“This is about all of us stepping up together, governments, organisations, and community,” she said.

“By working in partnership, we can increase awareness, target key areas, and make a real difference for koalas on our roads.”

Drivers are being urged to slow down, especially at dawn and dusk when koalas are most active, and to be vigilant in rural and semi-rural areas.

Anyone who sees a koala on or near the road should call Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers on 02 6672 4789 or Friends of the Koala on 02 6622 1233 at any time of day or night.

BY CHLOE WILLIAMS