There are moments when a community comes together around something bigger than itself.
The Southern Highlands Wildlife Sanctuary’s inaugural Koala Gala was one of those moments.
On a memorable evening in Bowral, conservation advocates, scientists, philanthropists, community leaders and wildlife supporters gathered with a shared purpose: protecting Australia’s wildlife and creating a future where koalas and other threatened species can thrive.
The energy in the room was unmistakable. There was hope, determination and a growing sense that real change is possible when people choose to act together.
The Gala marked the official launch of SHWS’s public crowdfunding campaign, an ambitious community-led effort to secure long-term habitat protection, expand scientific research and build vital conservation infrastructure in the Southern Highlands.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of attendees, more than $120,000 was raised on the night, providing an important first step towards turning that vision into reality.
But for SHWS Executive Chair Peter Lewis, the evening was never just about fundraising.
It reflects a critical time for a cause that can no longer wait.
“Australians are frequently hearing that extinction is coming someday in the future,” Lewis said.
“The reality is, this is happening now. This is the moment that matters.
“Koalas cannot wait for better times. We need to act now to strengthen research, education and rescue capacity. Communities want practical ways to contribute to long-term conservation outcomes, and that’s exactly what SHWS has built to deliver.”
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Conservation Powered by Community
One of the most inspiring aspects of the Koala Gala was the diversity of people who came together behind the cause.
The evening featured remarks from Australian icon Marcia Hines and a special video endorsement from Hugh Jackman, helping shine a national spotlight on the importance of conservation action.
Yet the real story belongs to the hundreds of supporters who are choosing to become part of something larger.
“Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to protecting koalas and building the facilities we urgently need,” Lewis said.
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Building the Next Generation of Environmental Leaders
At the heart of the campaign is SHWS’s Education Centre in Bundanoon.
The initial crowdfunding target of $500,000 will help break ground on a permanent conservation learning hub where students can connect directly with wildlife science, habitat restoration and real-world environmental stewardship.
The Centre is expected to engage more than 1,000 students each year and serve a region with approximately 375,000 young people living within reach of the Southern Highlands.
For Lewis, education is one of the most powerful conservation tools available.
“We have secured the site, now we need the education centre so we can turn community support into real conservation outcomes,” he said.
“If we want to protect Australia’s wildlife, we must start with education. The SHWS Education Centre will help create the next generation of environmental leaders.”
The vision goes far beyond the physical structure of the Centre. It’s about giving young people the opportunity to experience conservation firsthand, meet scientists and wildlife carers, and develop a lifelong connection to the natural world around them.
As Lewis explains:
“Research protects wildlife. Rescue saves wildlife. But education changes the future, and that is why the education pillar is central to everything we do.”
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Creating a Centre for Wildlife Recovery and Research
The Education Centre forms one pillar of SHWS’s broader conservation strategy, which also includes plans for a dedicated wildlife research and rehabilitation facility.
The proposed centre will support evidence-based rescue, recovery and translocation programs for threatened species, including koalas.
Stage One is expected to require approximately $3.5 million in funding and would provide specialist infrastructure for wildlife assessment, treatment, rehabilitation and monitored release programs.
“For critically endangered species like koalas, survival depends on more than rescue,” Lewis said.
“It requires research, health screening, disease management and carefully monitored preparation for release back into the wild.”
The goal is not simply to save individual animals, but to contribute to stronger, healthier wildlife populations over the long term.
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Help Us Build the Future of Conservation
The land is secured. The vision is clear. Now we need the community behind us.
By supporting our crowdfunding campaign, becoming a member or making a donation, you are helping build a future where wildlife conservation, education and research can thrive in the Southern Highlands. Every contribution brings us one step closer to making that future a reality.
For corporate sponsorships and partnership opportunities, please contact us directly.
