20/10/2026
It had to happen eventually...After months of observing Bertie and her joey Bunya along our section of the Sandy Creek corridor, I was concerned to find Bertie alone in the canopy this morning.
Having already sighted Dura dozing in a seldomly visited Eucalypt down the opposite end of our block, I began to search for little Bunya, fearing a fall from the massive Blue Gum in which Bertie was sleeping.
Once again thanks to our thermal monocular, a quick scan through the various heights of of multiple species' canopies, I sighted a very small body in a young Tallowwood - Eucalyptus microcorys
This Tallowwood was planted about 6 years ago, to increase the Koala food trees along the corridor, and is now around 7m tall, and about 200mm across at the base.
Out on one of its small branches, this little Koala was busily munching its obviously tasty fresh leaves.
Bunya had chosen a perfect tree for the first day of independence...and only metres away from Dura, whom we suspect may be dad.
It is a very heartening feeling, knowing that a tiny tube stock that was put in the ground not very long ago, is now feeding the next generation of our precious Koalas.
Stay safe little Bunya
NOTE: Bertie was originally captured and assessed in 2025, during Tier 1 of the 'Reducing the Threat of Chlamydia in SEQ’s Wild Koalas Program' here in Esk.
During Tier 2 earlier this year, she managed to evade capture and therefore we, as voluntary partners of the Program, have been continually monitoring her for any changes in appearance.
Now that Bunya is independent, should we have any concerns, Bertie will be rescued for her follow-up health assessment.
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