In 2020, as bushfires ravaged Australia, a UK woman felt compelled to help. She adopted a koala named Jarrah through the Australian Koala Foundation, sending monthly donations to support the marsupials' survival. The adoption certificate, featuring Jarrah, was pinned to her kitchen wall, and she followed his progress for two years.
In January 2023, she finally met Jarrah at a wildlife sanctuary near Perth. Despite being one of the few 'koala mums' to visit, her welcome was less than warm: Jarrah, half-asleep, bit her. It was a small nip, but a reminder that koalas are wild animals, not pets. Soon after, he allowed her to stroke him, particularly enjoying rubs between his shoulders.
The encounter stirred a childhood memory. At age five, she had received a cuddly koala toy, which became her favourite. Standing between Jarrah and another koala, Kai, she felt a connection to that early 'happy place', where cynicism dissolved and a sense of wonder returned.
She learned that koalas are vulnerable not only to bushfires and disease but also to land clearing and development. Despite being a protected species since 1937, their habitat lacks legal protection, and they are now listed as endangered. The experience deepened her commitment to animal welfare, reminding her of the importance of preserving childhood joy and nature's wonders.
