Lord Mayor Graham Quirk has committed a $2-million koala research centre in Fig Tree Pocket, which is to be finished in June 2018. A development application has now been lodged to the Brisbane City Council for the project.
The Plan
Located at 708 Jesmond Road, the upcoming research centre will be within the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. A number of existing enclosures will have to be demolished to make way for the research facility.
The proposal, designed by Giarola Architects, aims to have an Animal Enclosure and Research Centre within the centre of the overall Sanctuary Master Plan. A single storey building will be built.
Stage One of the proposed development involves the Animal Enclosure whilst Stage Two involves the Sky Deck Extension.
The Sky Deck Extension will be located on the southern side of the building, which will provide a circular viewing platform with additional functions to aid research.
Also read: Upcoming Lone Pine Sanctuary Research Centre in Fig Tree Pocket To Help Save Koalas
Council’s Efforts
Koalas are one of Australia’s iconic animals. Unfortunately, their numbers are rapidly dwindling due to the loss of habitat, dog attacks, disease and vehicle strike. Koalas are now listed as “vulnerable” under the national and state environmental law. The research centre is one of the efforts of the council to protect and preserve koalas across the country.
Aside from that, the council is also buying land with significant koala habitat through the Bushland Acquisition Program. They are also implementing the Natural Assets Local Law, which adds a layer of protection over significant vegetation that includes the homes of the koalas.
The Habitat Brisbane Program also aims to plant more koala food trees on council’s land. These are just some of the efforts of the council to preserve these beautiful animals.
View the development application for the research centre here.
