Forestry Corporation of NSW has donated 1000 blue-leaved stringybark seedlings (Eucalyptus agglomerata) to south coast landowners to help rebuild koala habitat in the area.

Included are 500 seedlings to members of the Far South Coast Landcare Association to help build local koala habitat. The seedlings will be planted on private property adjacent to known koala populations.

The connection between Forestry Corporation and the Landcare Association was initiated by Bridge House Nursery owner Don Firth.

“During the bushfires, I met and worked with many Forestry Corporation staff at the Bega fire headquarters,” Mr Firth said.

“This connection has seen us work with the Far South Coast Landcare Association to deliver seedlings to local farmers and help offset lost seedlings.

“Unfortunately the Landcare Association had lost a significant stock of seedlings in the bushfire, which were being prepared for the community planting program.

“It’s great to see Forestry Corporation help replace these losses and keep the koala habitat program continuing.

“In these uncertain times, the cooperation between everyone has been fantastic.”

Forestry Corporation’s Protection Supervisor Julian Armstrong was pleased to deliver the seedlings this week.

“We’re happy to support post-fire rebuilding through the donation,” Mr Armstrong said.

“These seedlings will support replanting efforts and provide a food source for surviving koalas for years to come.”

The Bega seedlings come from Forestry Corporation’s Grafton nursery, and are part of a larger program to help rebuild koala habitat on private land.

Forestry Corporation is currently delivering over 50,000 donated seedlings to community organisations, farmers and land managers in NSW’s coastal areas.

Media contact: Rod Campbell 0428058549