16/10/2026
While most of us were still asleep, they were out in the freezing pre-dawn darkness protecting wild koalas.
This photo, taken in the pitch-black early hours at Clouds Creek State Forest, shows exactly what a 421-day peaceful vigil looks like. High in the canopy, a wild koala watches on as local neighbours gather on a dirt road, often as early as 5:00 AM, to ensure this ancient habitat remains safe.
When the government scheduled 1,600 hectares of vital native forest for logging, half a dozen locals decided they couldn't just stand by. What started as a handful of neighbours on a freezing morning turned into an extraordinary 421-day community vigil that held off heavy machinery and ultimately saved this crucial koala habitat.
From retirees and local farmers to the Sydney Knitting Nannas, more than 60 everyday heroes took turns on the early-morning roster - day in, day out.
"It truly was a local community, grassroots action which ended up being successful," says local resident Meredith Stanton.
Our koalas can't stand in front of logging machinery or speak in parliament, they rely on us to be their voice in the dark. Every tree saved and every action counts.
👉 Read the inspiring full story: https://koalaclancyfoundation.org.au/never-give-up-what-421-days-of-peaceful-protest-teaches-us-about-saving-koalas/
📸 Meredith Stanton / Wild koala spotted during the pre-dawn vigil at Clouds Creek State Forest.
