At Friends of the Koala, we have always believed that koala rescue and rehabilitation goes hand in hand with investing in the people who will care for koalas in the future. That is why we are so proud of our ongoing collaboration with Southern Cross University, which is helping to shape the next generation of wildlife veterinarians right here in the Northern Rivers.
In April this year, our Superintendent Veterinarian Dr Kate Thomas delivered a series of wildlife husbandry, handling and behaviour sessions for veterinary students, providing practical training in the safe management of koalas and the unique considerations involved in caring for Australia’s iconic marsupials.
The Northern Rivers Koala Hospital also provides opportunities for veterinary students to gain exposure to wildlife medicine through clinical placements and observational experiences, helping them develop a real understanding of wildlife rehabilitation, conservation medicine and the challenges of treating native fauna.
Our planned Northern Rivers Koala Hospital expansion will take this even further. The new facility will provide additional treatment and intensive care spaces, advanced surgical and laboratory services, and importantly, even greater opportunities for students and early-career wildlife vets to learn in a modern clinical setting.
By investing in both koala care and veterinary education, we are helping to secure a better future for koalas and for the professionals who will one day care for them. We are grateful to Southern Cross University for this wonderful collaboration and look forward to continuing to grow it in the years ahead.
If you enjoyed reading this, you might enjoy the following:
- Friends of the Koala Partners
- Celebrating the Opening of the Southern Cross University Veterinary Science Precinct
- Research and Diagnostics Laboratory
- Community Education and Advocacy
- When Animals Fall Sick in the Region, Who Answers the Call?
- Koala food-tree nursery germinates on Southern Cross land
