Koala highway death raises questions over wait for signage

SIX koalas have now been killed on the M1 between Bonville and Repton with the latest struck almost exactly where another one died in September 2024.

A koala was also killed two months ago on the M1 near Waterfall Way.

Angela Wallace has been bringing this toll to the public’s attention for a number of years, and says appeals for warning signs have been met only with “soon”.

“There has been no signage erected since the first request to Transport for NSW (TfNSW) a year ago,” she said.

“Could Transport for NSW please ensure this happens ‘very soon’.”

Ms Wallace believes that in addition to ensuring fencing is complete and in good repair, mobile wildlife warning signs and reducing the speed limit to 100kmph along the Bongil Bongil Park boundary, could help.

She also suggested that new technology such as virtual fencing with AI sensors could be used to deter koalas and other animals.

A spokesperson for TfNSW said they were aware of “the tragic death of a koala due to a car strike on the Pacific Highway near Bonville, about 1km north of the Archville Station Road on/off ramps.”

They added that TfNSW takes the protection of koalas very seriously and uses every reasonable measure to ensure their wellbeing.

This includes a fauna fence that was installed during the Pacific Highway upgrade.

It was inspected early in November, following the latest koala’s death, and a damaged gate was identified and then made safe.

TfNSW has also carried out maintenance and repair work along the highway from near Perrys Lookout to Archville Station Road near Bonville, to help prevent koalas getting through or over the fence.

There are also two underpasses and a wildlife bridge in the area, as part of a concerted strategy to provide safe passage for fauna to cross the Pacific Highway.

Ms Wallace said, “It seems everything is about obtaining ‘funding’ and having a supportive MP or a proactive Council on board.

“Wouldn’t it be great if our local councils in Coffs Harbour and Bellingen as well as our local MP, could come on board to advocate for wildlife safety, especially as Coffs Harbour is seen as the epicentre for the Great Koala National Park.”

By Andrew VIVIAN