After years of decline, there is cautious hope for koalas across the Redlands Coast, with new research suggesting the population may finally be stabilising. An independent Koala Population Assessment commissioned by Redlands and undertaken by researchers from Griffith University indicates the local koala population has shown signs of stabilising in recent years, following significant declines in previous decades.
The findings build on earlier Redlands Coast koala monitoring and assessment work led by the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC), which has tracked koala population trends and habitat health across the region for many years.
Researchers caution that while the data does not show a continued sharp decline in recent years, overall numbers remain well below historical levels.
Closer to Home in Wellington Point
Wellington Point forms part of an important habitat corridor linking Ormiston, Cleveland and surrounding bushland areas. Residents regularly report koala sightings in local reserves and suburban streets, particularly in treed pockets and near conservation areas.
The stabilisation trend suggests that local conservation measures, including habitat protection planning, wildlife monitoring and community reporting programs, may be contributing to improved outcomes.
However, experts emphasise that koalas in South East Queensland remain listed as endangered and continue to face significant threats, including habitat fragmentation, vehicle strikes, dog attacks, disease, and ongoing urban development pressures.
Protecting mature trees and maintaining habitat connectivity remain critical to long-term recovery.
Ongoing Local Habitat Conversations
The population update comes amid ongoing community discussion about habitat protection in areas near Wellington Point, including concerns raised about proposed tree clearing associated with expansion plans at Ormiston College.
Residents have argued that mature trees in mapped koala habitat areas play an important role in maintaining movement corridors between suburbs such as Ormiston and Wellington Point.
As growth continues across the Redlands Coast, the broader conversation remains focused on balancing development needs with environmental preservation.
Community Role Still Critical
Redland City Council’s conservation framework continues to encourage residents to report koala sightings, drive cautiously in signed koala areas, keep dogs secured, particularly overnight, and support local habitat conservation initiatives.
While the latest assessment offers cautious optimism, researchers stress that sustained community involvement and long-term habitat protection will be essential to ensuring koalas remain part of the Wellington Point landscape.
Published 25-Feb-2026
Featured Image Credit: xiSerge/Pixabay
