This collaborative initiative delivered multiple benefits, with CSIRO providing expert training and essential equipment for participants to accurately conduct surveys and capture the data using the Koala Counter app and capture single observations using the Koala Spotter app.

Workshop attendees koala spotting.

The training is set to significantly increase the collection of valuable data for the NKMP, helping us map where koalas are thriving and, just as importantly, where they aren't.

As a CSIRO koala project field ecologist, workshop facilitator Eric Vanderduys emphasised both types of data are vital for effective conservation efforts.

Eric Vanderduys from CSIRO providing training on data collection .

This training offered vital capacity building opportunities for First Nations Peoples across SEQ so they can master the ability to deliver surveys for objectives including revegetation, weed control, assisted natural regeneration and threat mitigation. Further customised training with CSIRO is also being developed for on Country delivery with First Nations Peoples.

This training will form part of the monitoring component of the DETSI funded Restore and Reconnect: SEQ Koala Habitat program delivered by Healthy Land & Water in partnership with SEQ local councils alongside UniSC and QUT.

Read more about the Restore & Reconnect project as well as the related DETSI funded SEQ Koala Threat Management Initiatives program Healthy Land & Water are delivering here.

Photos by Charley Geddes and Sunny Behzadnia from CSIRO and Indigo Kuss-Patterson and Natalie Hillcoat from Healthy Land & Water.