As we celebrate #SaveTheKoalaMonth, it's clear that Queensland’s endangered koalas face an uncertain future. The biggest threats? Climate change and habitat destruction, both driven by coal mining. In our own backyard, the Bowen Basin has already seen significant areas of precious koala habitat destroyed. With new coal projects on the horizon, what remains of this critical ecosystem is at risk of disappearing.
At Mackay Conservation Group, we are standing with the Koalas Not Coal campaign to protect over 10 thousand hectares of critical habitat under threat from proposed coal mines. The expansion of coal mining not only exacerbates climate change but directly destroys the forests koalas need to survive. Every new coal project inches these beloved animals closer to extinction.
During our recent community forum, Dr. Michael Hewson from Central Queensland University (CQU) highlighted just how much koala habitat has already been cleared in Central Queensland, an area targeted by coal expansion. We also heard from experts on how climate change affects the nutritional value of koala’s primary food source—eucalyptus leaves. The impacts are more wide-reaching than you would expect.
What are we doing?
Mackay Conservation Group is taking direct action to protect koala habitat by challenging Australia’s largest proposed coal mine, Winchester South, in the Land Court. We are fighting to prevent further destruction in the Bowen Basin and ensure the preservation of critical ecosystems for koalas. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching impacts on both the survival of koalas and the future of coal mining in Queensland.
What can you do?
We need strong action, and that's where you can help. We're calling on Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek to reject any new coal mining approvals and strengthen nature laws to better protect the vital habitat of koalas.
- ✉️ Swing by our office at 156 Wood St, Mackay to sign a postcard to Minister Plibersek.
- 🖋️ Or sign online! Click here to take action
Koalas don’t have time. We must protect what’s left of their habitat now before it's too late.
