The Australian Koala Foundation’s iconic Save the Koala Shop has moved to Warialda, NSW - making it a must-visit attraction for grey nomads and tourists eager to help protect the nation’s favourite animal.
With proceeds supporting conservation and research efforts, the official Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) store offers a unique range of koala-themed merchandise including clothing, toys and souvenirs.
Formerly based in Brisbane, the AKF’s decision to shift the Save the Koala Shop and warehouse to the picturesque Gwydir Shire reflects the region’s crucial role in the marsupial’s long-term survival.
It was recently chosen for the first-of-its-kind initiative as part of the AKF’s overarching Koala Kiss Project - due to its fragmented, secure habitat that can be connected to provide wildlife refuge.
The AKF chair Deborah Tabart OAM warmly invited anyone travelling through leafy Warialda - perhaps hoping to catch a glimpse of the local koala population - to check out the Save the Koala Shop.
“The natural beauty of Warialda, including its rich wildlife, makes it an ideal spot for grey nomads to visit. We’d love them to stop in at the Save the Koala Shop,” Ms Tabart said.
“Not only does the Shop contain a plethora of high-quality items you won’t find anywhere else, but each sale directly contributes to a future where koalas are plentiful and safe.
“The AKF is committed to ensuring the success of the Koala Kiss Project, with the ultimate aim of creating a 2,543km continuous Koala habitat from Cairns to Melbourne.
“The Koala Kiss Site in Warialda is the first step in that grand plan, along with a new Human Plan of Management. Proceeds from the Save the Koala Shop will help us execute our vision.” Says Tabart.
The Save the Koala Shop has already garnered attention from country music star, Andy Penkow who jumped on board as a supporter and ambassador.
“Looking to help save koalas while exploring Australia? I would recommend visiting the Australian Koala Foundation's Save the Koala Shop in Warialda!
“If you spot a koala along the way, notify the Australian Koala Foundation to contribute to the KoalaMap’s development.” Says Penkow.
The Save the Koala Shop is located at 23 Stephen St, Warialda and is open each day except Sunday.
Key Facts:
- Save the Koala Shop has moved to Warialda, NSW, making it a must-visit attraction
-Proceeds from the Save the Koala Shop support the AKF's conservation and research efforts
- Attached is pre-recorded audio with country music star, Andy Penkow
About us:
About the Australian Koala Foundation
The Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) is the principal non-profit, non-government organisation dedicated to the conservation and effective management of the wild koala and its habitat. AKF aims to refine and update the Koala Habitat Atlas mapping of all wild Koala habitat and to get the Koala Protection Act enacted, ensuring the longevity of Koalas and their habitat.
Contact details:
Media contact:
pr@savethekoala.com
Office: (07) 3229 7233
Mobile: 0428 104 255