80 years old and retired, yet Dulcie Ryan has taken a significant stride in supporting Koala conservation, dedicating countless hours to crafting a koala-themed quilt.
From bushfires that decimated habitats, to devastating logging that wiped out entire Koala families, the Koala population is rapidly plummeting. Moved by the distressing plight of these cherished creatures, Dulcie Ryan was compelled to take action and created the Koala Quilt – a stunning artwork to support conservation efforts.
Dulcie Ryan, local resident of Warialda, says she was shocked at the dire situation of the Koalas and is encouraging all Koala lovers to unite and make a difference.
“I’ve always loved Australian animals, and in my part of the world, you only have to look outside to spot them. But I learned that Koalas are at risk, and I wanted to do my part to help them. Creating a quilt was the best way I could contribute.” Ms Ryan says.
Ms Ryan trusted her instincts in selecting the appropriate colours to feature in the quilt, which is covered in hues of greys, pinks, and greens. The key patchwork imagery of various Koalas aims to highlight their distinct personalities.
“Like you and me, each Koala has unique qualities and their own life stories. Hopefully, people see that in the quilt and remember that the Koalas are worth saving, and their stories are worth telling.” Ms Ryan says.
The Koala Quilt is truly a labour of love, taking her a week of ceaseless sewing, peddling, and patching to finish. Initially intended to be donated to the NSW bushfires and bring some relief to the wild Koalas who suffered, Ms Ryan has generously donated the Koala Quilt to the Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) to be raffled off.
Deborah Tabart OAM and Chair of the Australian Koala Foundation says the quilt is more than just a donation.
“Art has the incredible ability to convey emotions and messages that words sometimes fail to express. The Koala Quilt has become a focal point for raising awareness and is already igniting conversations about the urgent need to help the Koala!”
It’s even more special given that Ms. Ryan is a Warialda local, and we have such significant ties to the land there. Recently we’ve moved our Save the Koala shop to Warialda as it’s home to primary Koala habitat.” Says Tabart.
As part of their commitment to Koala conservation, the AKF is excited to announce that the incredible Koala Quilt will be raffled off to a lucky winner.
“By participating in the raffle, you not only have the chance to own a truly unique piece of art but also contribute directly to the preservation of the Koala habitats and their future. Each raffle ticket purchased will find the AKF’s efforts and initiatives, helping us make a tangible impact on the Koala population. “Tabart says.
With only 100 tickets available for purchase at $15 each, supporters can be in the draw to win this incredible artwork. To further support the AKF, Koala Lovers are encouraged to jump online to the Save the Koala shop and purchase some goodies with a positive message.
For more information about the upcoming raffle and ticket purchases, head to https://www.savethekoala.com/shop/products/koala-quilt/ The winner of the Koala Quilt be announced upon the sale of the last ticket.
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. The 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 longevity of koalas and their habitat.
Contact details:
Media contacts
[email protected]
Office: (07) 3229 7233
Mobile: 0428 104 255