Koala and wildlife numbers on the Mornington Peninsula are declining due to loss of habitat and urbanisation. Mornington Peninsula Koala Conservation (MPKC) is a volunteer organisation working on implementing our action plan to protect and restore koala habitat. Deakin University student Paola Rivera’s (Rivera 2020) study of koala distribution on the Mornington Peninsula has shown they are still present from HMAS Cerberus through to Red Hill South, mostly along roadside vegetation and riparian zones.

The plan is to increase tree canopy and revegetate farmland (i.e. shelter belts), on private property and improve the existing reserves and riparian zones. Tree canopy in this area is sparse and fragmented with weeds invading the existing remnant bushland. More than 70% of koala habitat is on private land and without community involvement we will not be able to stop the decline. Tree planting is one of the most affordable, relatable, enjoyable and positive ways of taking climate action, whilst significantly benefitting our natural environment.

It provides an opportunity to educate people in our community about the impacts of climate change and the loss of biodiversity. By collaborating with the Mornington Peninsula Landcare Network, Members of the Merricks-Coolart Landcare Group and Red Hill South Landcare Group, the Mornington Peninsula Shire, Parks Victoria, the Dept. of Defence and many other organisations and local residents, we are sure to achieve a successful outcome. We have a lot of landholders already signed up and an unbelievable amount of interest in the community.