Wildlife awareness signage installed in Koonoomoo

Published on 18 March 2024

New wildlife awareness signage has been installed along a stretch of the Goulburn Valley Highway in Koonoomoo known for its large koala population. Koalas and other wildlife move through this area looking for food, water, and habitat. The wildlife awareness signage aims to remind motorists of their surroundings and to take care whilst driving through the area.

The wildlife awareness signage project, initiated by Dutch Thunder Wildlife Rescue and completed in partnership with Moira Shire Council and the Department of Transport and Planning, has come to fruition after a significant number of koalas were hit and killed on the Goulburn Valley Highway in Koonoomoo in early 2023.

Moira Shire Council’s Administrator Suzanna Sheed AM said that she hopes the signage encourages motorists to drive carefully through areas known for large wildlife populations.

“Moira Shire Council is proud to have supported Dutch Thunder Wildlife Rescue in the implementation of this project,” said Administrator Sheed AM.

“We are home to one of the largest koala populations in Victoria, and many other species call Moira Shire home. We have an opportunity to help protect the threatened and endangered animals habituating in our area – driving carefully, being aware of surroundings, and knowing key times when animals are likely to be on the move is an important start.”

“I thank Dutch Thunder Wildlife Rescue for the crucial work that they do and for their continued efforts in educating and raising awareness within our community.”

Motorists are asked to take care whilst driving through known wildlife hotspots, particularly at dusk, dawn and during extreme weather events when animals are likely to be on the move searching for shelter or water.

Dutch Thunder Wildlife Rescue is a not-for-profit 24-hour emergency service aiding native wildlife throughout the Moira Shire and surrounds.

Calls for assistance can be made to 0417 560 910.