In a quiet part of the Hinterland, in Reesville, west of Maleny, an astonishing discovery has been made. A recent survey has confirmed the presence of 51 koalas across less than 100 hectares of private bushland. This figure is remarkable when compared with the broader South East Queensland average of 0 to 22 koalas per 100 hectares, making Reesville one of the most densely populated koala habitats in the region.
Collaborative Conservation in Action
The survey was led by the University of the Sunshine Coast, with Dr Romane Cristescu and her renowned Detection Dogs for Conservation team at the helm, working alongside the University of Queensland Koala Ecology Group. Backed by funding and support from Sunshine Coast Council, this project reflects the strength of collaboration between science, government and community.
Importantly, none of this would have been possible without the willingness of local landholders to open their properties and participate in the study. Their partnership highlights the critical role of private land in securing a future for koalas.
The Role of Hinterland Bush Links
The findings in Reesville are closely connected to the ongoing work of Hinterland Bush Links. For years, volunteers and landholders have been actively involved in restoring this landscape—removing invasive weeds, planting food and shelter trees, and building ecological resilience for wildlife.
One of the properties surveyed is also a site where Hinterland Bush Links has supported restoration activities. These efforts not only create immediate benefits for biodiversity but also provide long-term support for thriving koala populations. You can learn more about the achievements of our Hinterland Koala Habitat project in the Hinterland Koala Habitat Project Good News Story.
A Community That Cares
Dr Cristescu noted that Reesville is a standout not only for its koala density but also for its passionate community of guardians. Local residents have been actively engaged in habitat protection and even rescuing joeys when needed. This is proof that grassroots efforts, supported by science and Council, can deliver extraordinary outcomes for wildlife.
At Hinterland Bush Links, we’ve seen this spirit first-hand. We continue to empower property owners who are taking steps to care for their land and the wildlife it supports. Together, we are creating safe havens for koalas and many other native species. Check out our Landholder Resource here.
Spotlight on Watson – Wildlife of the Month
Among the residents of Reesville is Watson, our August Wildlife of the Month. Watson is a local favourite, often spotted in the restored bushland that volunteers and landholders have worked so hard to protect. Watson is still young and finding his way in the world after his mother was found dead nearby. His presence is a living reminder of why these restoration projects matter—not just for statistics on a page, but for the real animals whose survival depends on healthy habitats.
Looking Ahead
This discovery in Reesville offers a glimpse of hope for koalas at a time when their populations face significant threats across much of their range. By combining scientific research, community-driven restoration, and Council support, we are proving that positive change is possible.
As the koala breeding season (August to February) begins, it’s a timely reminder to:
- Drive carefully on local roads, especially at night.
- Report wild koala sightings via the QWildlife app.
- Get involved in habitat restoration through organisations like Hinterland Bush Links.
The story of Reesville is more than a surprising discovery—it’s a testament to what can be achieved when science, government and community come together for conservation. With continued effort, koalas like Watson will remain a thriving part of our landscape for generations to come.
