Sparrow’s Secret

Sparrow the Koala climbing up a gumtree

Rescued from Cornubia Forest Park, Cornubia in March 2026.

Sparrow came into care at the start of March 2025 after a multi-day rescue effort at Cornubia Forest Park by Koala Rescue Redlands and Surrounds.

Sparrow’s rescue wasn’t easy. The highly skilled and qualitied volunteers from Koalas Rescue Redlands and Surrounds deployed drones, set traps, and even completed a moonlit hike to safely collect her. From there, she was taken to Currumbin Wildlife Hospital for specialist assessment and care.

On admission at the wildlife hospital, Sparrow required treatment for chlamydia and associated health issues. Health checks also revealed an exciting detail, Sparrow was carrying a very young joey in her pouch! 

Thanks to the dedication of the veterinary and wildlife carer teams at Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, Sparrow responded well to treatment and was given the all‑clear to return home. Sparrow was collected from hospital and released back into Cornubia Forest Park by Wildcare on Easter Saturday.

Sparrow’s story is a timely reminder that koalas count on us to help them!

If you spot a koala, check if they are sick or injured. Here is what to look out for:

  • Red, inflamed or crusty eyes
  • Very dirty, wet or brown bottom
  • Signs of injury such as cuts, blood or fur loss
  • Very skinny
  • Not using all four limbs when climbing or walking
  • Sitting at the base of a tree or in the same tree for several days.

If you have spotted a sick or injured koala, call for help immediately.

  • RSPCA: 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) – 7:00am to 7:00pm
  • Wildcare: 07 5527 2444 – open 24 hours a day 7 days a week
  • Koala Rescue Redlands and Surrounds: 0435 504 222 – open 24 hours a day 7 days a week

We extend a huge thank you to all the volunteers and organisations for the countless volunteer hours, expertise and care that made Sparrow’s story a success.

Keep a look out for Sparrow when you are next visiting Cornubia Forest Park. She has a yellow ear tag in her right ear. And all going well, towards the end of the year, we hope to see her joey.

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