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The much-loved Koala Fest is returning to Kurrajong this weekend, bringing the community together to celebrate Hawkesbury’s thriving koala population while learning how to keep them safe.
Set for Saturday, September 13th, the family-friendly festival will showcase the remarkable story of koalas quietly re-emerging in the region over the past decade. Once a rare sight, koalas are now being spotted more frequently in backyards and local reserves, thanks to ongoing conservation efforts led by Science for Wildlife and local volunteers.
A Story of Hope
“Koalas are being seen more frequently in the developed areas of the Hawkesbury. People who have lived there for decades will suddenly report a koala in their backyard for the first time, which is a wonderful experience to have. But with koalas turning up closer to homes, roads and other risks, it’s vital that we all play a part in keeping them safe.” - Dr Kellie Leigh, Executive Director of Science for Wildlife
Since 2014, Science for Wildlife has been documenting koalas across landscapes from Wollemi National Park to the leafy streets of Kurrajong. Their research has uncovered an encouraging story of survival, showing that local habitats still hold the key to the species’ future.
Festival Highlights
Koala Fest will feature information stalls, children’s activities, live entertainment, and hands-on opportunities to learn how residents can help reduce threats to koalas and restore their habitats.
One of the day’s most anticipated highlights will be the appearance of scat detection dogs Groot (fully qualified) and Bandit (a pup in training), who have been instrumental in tracking and mapping koalas across the region. Festivalgoers will even be able to watch the dogs at work.
The event is led by Richie Benson, proud Hawkesbury resident and founder of the first Koala Fest in 2018, together with Sophie Blair from Greater Sydney Landcare. The festival is supported by a coalition of local organisations including Hawkesbury City Council, Greater Sydney Local Land Services, Hawkesbury WIRES, Hawkesbury Environment Network, Brewongle Environmental Education Centre, Western Sydney University, TAFE NSW, and Science for Wildlife.
“We’re delighted to be bringing Koala Fest back to Kurrajong. It’s the first Koala Fest since Covid, so it’s wonderful to have an opportunity to run this family festival again with activities, information booths, and entertainment — all celebrating koalas and the natural environment.” - Richie Benson
Community Action for Koalas
The festival carries a strong message: every community action helps safeguard the future of koalas. Whether it’s planting trees, driving carefully on local roads, or reporting sightings, residents can play a vital role in ensuring these much-loved marsupials remain a part of everyday life in the Hawkesbury.
Koala Fest is a free event and will take place on Saturday, September 13th from 10am -3pm at Memorial Park, Kurrajong. Families, nature lovers, and anyone passionate about protecting wildlife are encouraged to come along for a day of celebration, learning, and community spirit.
