IF you’ve got the eye for spotting fluffy, iconic Australian species, then the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) needs you.

NPWS is seeking volunteers for the 2023 Community Koala Surveys in Bongil Bongil National Park, which begins on Tuesday 26 September.

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NPWS Ranger Martin Smith said Bongil Bongil National Park is an important conservation area for koalas and is home to one of NSW’s largest wild koala populations.

“The purpose of this popular, long-running citizen science survey is to collect annual data on the size and distribution of the Bongil Bongil koala population,” said Mr Smith.

“NPWS uses this data to determine if any changes are occurring within the population so that appropriate conservation actions can be planned and implemented.

“We time the annual survey to align with koala breeding season, which typically runs from late September to early October.

“During this time, the local koala population is on the move, vocal and easy to spot.

“2023 marks the 10th year of the citizen science survey, which has been running since 2013.

“Over the past decade, hundreds of community volunteers have helped NPWS to collect vital data about the park’s koala population,” said Mr Smith.

Volunteers are asked to sign up for five night-time surveys between Tuesday 26 September and Thursday 12 October.

Surveys are held every four nights, with each survey beginning at 6.30pm and taking approximately two hours to complete.

Volunteers walk along gravel fire trails in Bongil Bongil National Park, using spotlighting and audio call-back technology to survey the koalas.

All equipment and training is provided by NPWS.

“If you’re interested in koala conservation, or up for a leisurely night time stroll through the beautiful Bongil Bongil National Park, this is the program for you.

“We have a growing team of dedicated volunteers who look forward to the annual survey and come back each year to help us collect this important information about our furry friends,” said Mr Smith.
A short, mandatory information and training session for prospective volunteers will be held at the NPWS Office near the Coffs Harbour Jetty at 6pm on Monday 25 September.

If you’re interested in participating in the program or would like to know more, contact NPWS Ranger Martin Smith on (02) 6652 0907 or martin.smith@environment.nsw.gov.au.