Guulabaa is the world’s first wild koala breeding facility, located on the outskirts of Cowarra State Forest, west of Port Macquarie on the mid-north coast of New South Wales. This interactive initiative was made possible by generous public donations following the catastrophic bushfires of 2019 and 2020, along with the dedicated efforts of professionals from Koala Conservation Australia. They have partnered with various organizations, including the Taronga Conservation Society, the University of Sydney, the Australian Museum, the University of Queensland, and the Australian National University. Their goal is to halt and reverse the decline of wild koala populations in the mid-north coast of New South Wales.

This state-of-the-art facility can house up to 100 koalas, all scientifically selected for their overall health and genetic diversity. This selection gives their offspring the best chance of establishing healthy populations of wild, free-living koalas in suitable locations across New South Wales.

Purpose-built enclosures ensure that resident koalas are housed under the highest welfare standards. Beautiful leaf-shaped canopies have been designed for the koalas, helping to keep them sheltered from the elements. To maintain the health and well-being of these breeding koalas, access within the Guulabaa breeding facility is restricted.

Visitors are welcome to observe the koala yards from expansive viewing decks or learn more about Australia’s beautiful koalas through interactive education sessions or sit a while, listen and learn in the Gunyah audio pod by Birdwood artist, Jo Davidson. Guests can also watch koalas being cared for in the specialized ‘Cheyne Flanagan Koala Clinic’ and discover more about the Wild Koala Breeding Program. Enjoy the unique ‘Umbrella Species’ sculptures from renowned artist Nick Warfield, and consider making a pledge to conserve our koalas; you can pin your pledge to a gum leaf on the Pledging Board.

Take a stroll through the tranquil, forested pathways of Cowarra State Forest. For younger visitors, or those young at heart, Wildnets Adventure Park offers a fun opportunity to bounce through the treetops or take a selfie with the large koala from the Hello Koala Sculpture Trail. After a day full of excitement and adventures, relax with refreshments from the Bunyah Local Aboriginal Lands Council’s on-site café and gallery. Don’t forget to bring home a reminder of your visit from the koala shop, which offers a variety of quality artisan koala merchandise, with profits supporting the wild koala breeding program.

This engaging and interactive education centre is sure to be a favourite destination for the whole family. Enjoy an eye-opening day out, and contribute to the conservation of our iconic koalas.

Read more by visiting Koala Conservation Australia