
Bangalow Koalas is proud to announce the planting of its 500,000th tree, a remarkable achievement in the organisation’s mission to restore and reconnect vital koala habitat across the Northern Rivers.
The organisation says this milestone represents seven years of dedication, community effort, and a shared vision to secure a future for koalas and other native wildlife. Since its founding, Bangalow Koalas has worked together with landholders, volunteers, and partner organisations to create a living legacy of regeneration.
To date, the group has:
- Planted 500,000 trees across 454 hectares of land.
- Delivered 171 plantings on 123 properties spanning seven shires.
- Engaged more than 3,000 volunteers in hands-on conservation.
- Mentored four community groups along the eastern seaboard to replicate its successful model.
Hope for the future
Linda Sparrow, President of Bangalow Koalas, said, ‘This is not just about trees – it’s about hope. At a time when news of the environment decline can feel overwhelming, people need hope more than ever.

‘Hope is what turns despair into action and transforms small gestures into lasting change. It reminds us that while challenges like climate change and habitat loss are immense, they are not insurmountable.
‘Hope is what sustains communities, fuels innovation, and inspires people to believe that a better future is still possible,’ she said. ‘Every tree planted is a living symbol of that hope – proof that together, we can make a difference.’
‘Every tree we plant is a step towards ensuring koalas can move safely through our landscapes, find food, and survive into the future. Reaching 500,000 trees proves the power of community when people come together for a common purpose,’ said Ms Sparrow.
Celebration planting event
To mark this achievement, Bangalow Koalas will host a special 500,000th Tree Celebration Planting Event on 14–15 November 2025.
The event will bring together community members, dignitaries, and volunteers to celebrate this extraordinary milestone and continue the work of planting trees for wildlife, climate, and future generations.
Bangalow Koalas invites supporters, partners, and media to join in celebrating this achievement and witnessing first-hand the transformation taking place across the Northern Rivers.
The location will be at Possum Creek, on 14 and 15 November, starting each day at 9am.
For more information, please contact: Linda Sparrow on email via: [email protected] or phone: 0411 491 991.


For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling.