Forestry Corporation was informed by contractors last week that a koala had been found unwell in a timber harvesting operation on the north coast.

General Manager Hardwood Forests Division Daniel Tuan said, “upsettingly, our contractors found an unwell koala in a State forest during an active operation last week. We immediately stopped work on site and we contacted the local koala care group who arranged veterinary care.

“Sadly, the animal was in poor health and was euthanised.

“Our ecology team commenced additional surveys on the site as well as an investigation. We have informed our regulators and will cooperate in all further investigation of this incident.

“An autopsy indicated the koala had also sustained injuries. As a precautionary measure, we are contacting all of our crews and field staff on the north coast to reinforce our obligations, expectations and protocols.”

Media contact: Rod Campbell