Locals distressed by koala death at Pine Creek State Forest

FRIENDS of Pine Creek and other locals have been saddened by the death of a koala found during logging operations in Pine Creek State Forest.

Forestry Corporation NSW (FCNSW) released a statement saying it was notified by its timber harvesting contractor that an unwell and injured koala had been found within an active plantation harvesting area in Pine Creek State Forest.

Operations in the immediate area were paused, and the animal was captured and transported to the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital for veterinary assessment and care.

Significant damage to one eye indicated the koala was suffering from chlamydia however it later began showing additional signs of injury.

The koala was euthanised on welfare grounds the following day.

FCNSW said the protection of koalas and other native wildlife is a priority, and plantation harvesting operations are undertaken in accordance with detailed environmental requirements and operational procedures, including pre-harvest inspections.

The incident has been reported to the plantation regulator.

The Forestry Corporation will review the circumstances.

Responses to inquiries made about the nature and possible causes of the koala’s injuries were not received by the publication deadline.

By Andrew VIVIAN