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Byron Shire
June 26, 2026

Bangalow Koalas celebrates over 450,000 trees planted across Northern Rivers

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Before tree planting. Bangalow Koalas

Bangalow Koalas is proud to announce a community tree planting on Friday 30 May at East Coraki, as part of their ambitious ‘500,000 Reasons for Hope’ project.

Spanning 161 plantings across 121 properties in 7 local shires, this community-driven initiative has become one of the region’s most impactful conservation efforts.

The project was launched in 2019 to restore vital koala habitat and biodiversity across the Northern Rivers region of NSW. There are now just 15,000 trees remaining to reach the half a million milestone, with individuals, communities, and corporate sponsors being asked to pitch in.

After tree planting. Bangalow Koalas

Bold vision

‘We set out with a bold vision – to create a connected corridor of habitat to protect the future of our precious koalas,’ said Linda Sparrow, President of Bangalow Koalas.

‘This isn’t just about planting trees; it’s about planting hope. With the support of local landholders, volunteers, and donors, we’ve created a grassroots movement that’s regenerating the land and bringing back the wildlife.’

To complete the final stretch, Bangalow Koalas has relaunched its GoFundMe campaign and is actively seeking corporate sponsors who want to be part of a tangible, lasting legacy for Australia’s iconic koalas and native ecosystems.

As the region continues to recover from bushfires, droughts, and floods, the project’s success demonstrates what’s possible when communities unite to protect what matters most.

Linda Sparrow says, ‘Let’s plant the final 15,000 trees—together!’

You can support the GoFundme here.

Find out more about Bangalow Koalas and see a short video about the tree-planting here.



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When it comes to real estate, everyone can use an advocate

With 45 years combined experience across both sales and property management, husband and wife team Mark and Michelle Errichiello have recently moved to the Northern Rivers and teamed up with Byron Property Search to provide advocacy services for people looking to buy or sell across the region.

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Conservationists welcome carbon credit scheme to protect forests

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Charge dismissed for activist hindering coal exports

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