Contract awarded for koala hospital redevelopment

The project will transform the hospital into a wildlife rehabilitation, research, and education centre, supporting Koala Conservation Australia’s mission to conserve koalas and their habitats for future generations.

A W Edwards was selected to undertake the redevelopment following a competitive tender process.

“Our business is committed to positively contributing to the local community of Port Macquarie, having been established there for over 25 years,” said Justin Smith, CEO of A W Edwards.

“This project aligns with our commitment to sustainability, biodiversity conservation and care for all forms of life.

“We are proud to build a facility that contributes to koala conservation whilst educating visitors from across the world on our precious Australian wildlife.”

KCA advises that A W Edwards has committed to a range of sustainability initiatives throughout the project, including salvaging and repurposing timber and metals from the site, and reducing earthworks to protect tree root systems.

Staff will also take part in bush regeneration and community clean-ups in collaboration with KCA, and recycling programs including a return-and-earn bottle scheme will be implemented, with funds donated to KCA.

Paul White, Acting General Manager of KCA, said the redevelopment will provide the infrastructure to “care for more koalas, educate more people, and continue our important research”.

Preparatory work is now underway, with the koala hospital temporarily relocated to the wild koala breeding centre at Guulabaa – Place of Koala, KCA’s conservation precinct in Cowarra State Forest.

The redevelopment is expected to cost around $10million and has received $5million from the NSW Government’s Restart NSW Program.

The remaining $5million will be funded by KCA through donors, sponsors and supporters.