Community Spirit Offers Hope for Koalas

Gold Coast locals have banded together to support Currumbin Wildlife Hospital’s mission to save Koalas from chlamydia. There are 22 Koalas currently part of the Koala Chlamydia Vaccine Research Program, and many of these Koalas share their habitats with Gold Coast residents.

The Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Research Team, led by Lewis McKillop, have conducted their first study in the backyards of many homes while tracking specific Koalas.  We report that residents with open arms have welcomed the team.

Local Elanora Resident Krystal O’Grady said she has peace of mind knowing the Koalas on her property are now vaccinated after witnessing many sick and dying Koalas in her backyard.

“Just be aware we live in their backyard, and we need to keep our eyes out for them,” O’Grady said.

The signs of chlamydia include conjunctivitis eyes and a wet bottom, and it’s essential to report any sightings immediately to Currumbin Wildlife Hospital.  This research program aims to capture and vaccinate 10% of the sub-adult Koalas per year from the local Elanora population and monitor that population and level of chlamydia over five years.

After vaccination, the Koalas are released back into the diseased population with a GPS collar to be tracked and tested 6-12 months later to check if they are chlamydia-free.  This program is pivotal in saving endangered species.

To report any sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife, please call Currumbin Wildlife Hospital on (07) 5534 0813.