for kids
BackNext
50 Firsts
Explore
For Kids

About

Click on document photos to enlarge

1927 - Koala sanctuary a beacon of hope

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary at Fig Tree Pocket in Queensland was established as the world’s first koala sanctuary in 1927.

Koalas were in particular need of protection at this time with millions killed for their pelts. Public outrage at the massacres led to the introduction of protective legislation under the Queensland Animals and Birds Act 1921.

Legislation to protect koalas, however, did little to prevent the government capitalising on demand from overseas markets for marsupial fur pelts.

It was not until 1927 that it was realised the koala population was in very real danger of extinction. The opening of the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary represented a significant effort to ensure the future preservation of these animals.

In 1927, there were just two koalas, named Jack and Jill: today the sanctuary is home to 130 koalas and other animals. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary has become a popular tourist attraction in Queensland, remaining the world’s largest sanctuary for koalas.

A petition from residents of Dalby protests the declaration of an open season on koalas, 21 July 1927 Queensland State Archives Item ID 1139494, Digital Image ID 2907 Agriculture and Stock Department
A petition from residents of Dalby protests the declaration of an open season on koalas, 21 July 1927
Queensland State Archives Item ID 1139494, Digital Image ID 2907 Agriculture and Stock Department


around the world

1927 The Jazz Singer opened, the first ‘talkie’
1927 Heisenberg proposed the uncertainty principle
1928 Bubble gum invented
1928 Bert Hinkler flew solo from England to Australia
1928 Charles Kingsford Smith flew from USA to Australia
1928 British women got the vote
1928 Fleming discovered penicillin

View Timeline