Our Southern Highlands Wildlife Sanctuary crowdfunding campaign is officially live NOW!
This campaign is not just about raising funds.
It is about building a “coalition of capability” — bringing together community members, educators, scientists, wildlife carers, families, businesses and supporters from not only the Southern Highlands, but across Australia and beyond, who believe conservation must move from concern to action.
On Saturday the 16th May, our inaugural “Koala Gala” brought together community leaders, philanthropists, scientists, conservation advocates and business leaders to officially launch this vision and fundraising campaign.
The evening focused on securing land for long-term habitat protection, expanding scientific research and building a future-focused Education Centre designed to inspire the next generation of conservationists.
Our guests heard from our Executive Chair Peter Lewis, were treated to a spectacular show from Marcia Hines, and a surprise video message of support from Australian actor Hugh Jackman.
But the Gala was about more than fundraising.
It was designed as a rallying point for a broader national conversation about wildlife extinction, habitat loss and the need for immediate action.
As Peter shared on the night: “Australians are frequently hearing that extinction is coming someday in the future. The reality is this is happening now. This is the moment that matters.”
Now, we are asking our broader community to help carry this message even further.
DONATE TO THE CROWDFUNDING CAMPAIGN NOW
What these funds are for
EDUCATION
These funds will help us break ground on the SHWS Education Centre in the heart of Bundanoon — a permanent conservation learning hub designed to connect students and community directly with wildlife science, habitat restoration and hands-on environmental education.
We have secured a site for our education centre through the generous support of the Quest for Life Foundation and we are almost ready to submit the plans for DA.
Education forms part of a broader long-term conservation strategy that combines scientific research, wildlife rescue and habitat protection into a single community-driven model. 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.
“Research protects wildlife. Rescue saves wildlife. But education changes the future.”
RESEARCH
Returning animals to the wild
A core pillar is ongoing scientific research focused on koalas, wombats, and other marsupials.
This work includes habitat studies, behavioural research, species health, relocation modelling, and practical conservation science. It is designed to produce evidence-based solutions that can be applied not only in the Southern Highlands, but across Australia.
Research gives the Sanctuary credibility, scientific relevance, and national impact. It ensures that our conservation efforts are grounded in data and practical outcomes—not sentiment alone.
This pillar is the intellectual engine of the project.
“Wildlife populations are under increasing pressure. Investing in rescue infrastructure and research capability is an investment in the long-term resilience of regional biodiversity.”
LAND ACQUISITION
Land acquisition underpins the long-term success of both research and education.
To support our programs, we require strategically located land that can serve as:
- A permanent research base
- Habitat for species study and rehabilitation
- Expansion corridors for wildlife movement
This stage requires:
- $3.5 million in Year 1 (2026–2027) for initial land acquisition
- A further $2 million to $5 million in Year 2 for expansion and development
Land ownership is essential. It provides operational security, habitat control, and the ability to build a lasting institution rather than a temporary project.
“Without land, conservation remains fragmented. With land, it becomes scalable and enduring.”
But none of this happens alone.
We need people like you willing to stand beside us and say:
“Not on my watch”
Here’s how you can help today:
- Make a donation, no matter the size
- Share the campaign with family and friends using the links below
- Share our posts on social media
- Forward this blog post to people who care about Australia’s wildlife
- Help us build momentum across communities, schools, businesses and networks
When many people give what they can, together we create something powerful and lasting.
Your support today helps us move from vision to action — and from concern to real conservation outcomes.
Together, we can build something future generations will thank us for.
Grounded in Science, Powered by Community, Built for Long-Term Impact
With gratitude,
Peter Lewis, John Creighton
& all the team at Southern Highlands Wildlife Sanctuary
DONATE TO THE CROWDFUNDING CAMPAIGN NOW
All donations over $2 are tax deductible in Australia
