Holiday fun

The Koala Conservation Reserve will come alive with family fun this Save the Koala Day, coinciding with the AFL Grand Final public holiday and the second half kick-off for the Victorian school holidays.

This Friday September 26 from 11am to 2pm, the Reserve will host a free, footy-themed celebration on the front lawn of the Visitor Centre, including:

* Footy-inspired colouring-in

* Footy face painting

* Goal kicking and handball competitions

* Delicious game-day favourites from Create Catering

* Special appearances from U18 Phillip Island Bulldogs Football Club players, who are helping to run the activities

Visitors are also invited to take part in special experiences inside the Reserve with ticketed entry, where they can join a guided ranger tour, spot resident koalas on the treetop boardwalks, and take part in a scavenger hunt.

Knowledgeable volunteers will be on hand to share fascinating facts about these much-loved marsupials.

Nature Parks staff will also be collecting donations for the Penguin Foundation, which supports the vital koala conservation and rehabilitation work at the Koala Conservation Reserve.

"Save the Koala Day is a fantastic opportunity for the community to connect with nature, learn more about koalas, and enjoy a great day out with the family," said Daniel Kallstrom, Attraction Manager at the Koala Conservation Reserve.

"We're combining the things Victorians love most at this time of year with footy and school holidays, and of course iconic Australian wildlife."

The Koala Conservation Reserve is home to 16 resident koalas and provides a state-of-the-art sanctuary for animals in need of care, as well as those unable to return to the wild.

While koalas are not native to Phillip Island, the Reserve plays a key role in supporting research, education, and welfare of the species.

Funds raised through ticketed activities and eco-tourism experiences contribute to koala welfare and conservation programs.

"By visiting the Koala Conservation Reserve, adopting a koala or making a donation, you're helping us continue our vital work protecting these much-loved Australian animals," Mr Kallstrom said.

To adopt a koala or donate, please go to: www.penguinfoundation.org.au