On 19 November 2023, a group of brave women are taking their dedication to Koala conservation to new heights. Partnering with the Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) and joining the ranks of the Koala Army, these daredevils are gearing up for a skydiving spectacle in support of the Koala Protection Act.
In the scenic town of Toogoolawah, QLD, the Sky Sisters will don koala onesies, and jump from planes in the hopes of seeing the Koala Protection Act come to fruition. This proposed legislation is the main goal of the AKF and would protect Koala habitat from destruction and fragmentation.
Deborah Tabart OAM, Chair of the Australian Koala Foundation, expressed her delight about this initiative.
“This is going to be a fantastic event and very exciting for the Koala Army. The Sky Sisters are showing us that the sky’s the limit when it comes to saving the Koala and protecting their habitat."
“We are incredibly grateful for their support and happy to see our Koala Army mobilised in such a way.” Tabart says.
The Sky Sisters event is expected to draw 17-20 women skydivers, promising to be a remarkable day for both participants and onlookers.
Renowned for its rich natural beauty and diverse wildlife, Toogoolawah is the perfect setting to underscore the significance of Koala conservation.
Participant and member of the Sky Sisters, Gem Hodges, chose to support the Australian Koala Foundation in this event.
“This event is a celebration of bravery, adventure, and our commitment to the Koala Protection Act.” Hodges says.
“We want to raise awareness and remind everyone that Koalas need our help. We’re thrilled to support the Australian Koala Foundation and take to the skies to make a difference.”
The event will also feature some of the best skydiving photographers in the world, such as the Lisa Perdichizzi Scholarship recipient, Jodie Mayo. They will capture the stunning moments of the Sky Sisters’ leap for Koala conservation. Among the participants, there is also Natisha Dingle who holds the women’s world record for the fastest skydive.
The Australian Koala Foundation is inviting those inspired by the Sky Sisters' bravery, to join the Koala Army and help protect this iconic species and their habitat. Supporters can also contribute by planting a tree, adopting a koala, or making a direct donation to the AKF.
For more information on the Koala Protection Act head to savethekoala.com.
ENDS
Key Facts:
- Sky Sisters will be skydiving in support of the Koala Protection Act in Toogoolawah, QLD
- Australian Koala Foundation urges everyone to join the Koala Army to help protect the Koala and its habitat
- Jodie Mayo, the Lisa Perdichizzi Scholarship recipient will be attending, along with Natisha Dingle who holds the women's world record for the fastest sky dive
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 the longevity of koalas and their habitat.
About Sky Sisters
Sky Sisters is about encouraging, supporting, motivating, and challenging experienced, up-and-coming, and all skydiving women across Australia. These efforts culminate in the Sky Sisters event in November in Toogoolawah, which is an event for women, by women, with women coaches and women centred activities. It allows skydiving women across Australia an opportunity to meet, progress skills, try new disciplines, learn, and grow the sport together.
Contact details:
[email protected]
Office: (07) 3229 7233
Mobile: 0428 104 255