Guulabaa – Place of Koala

Koalas were declared endangered after the devastating Black Summer bushfires. Guulabaa was created to address this crisis with a purpose-built facility for breeding and releasing koalas into the wild. The challenge was to design a conservation-first environment that mimics natural habitat, embeds First Nations knowledge, and remains publicly accessible without compromising wildlife. Located within a working State Forest under the Forestry Act, the project also had to meet strict ecological and fire safety standards. Traditional fire practices, long-term permits, and strong stakeholder partnerships created both challenges and innovative opportunities for design and delivery.

The design responds through ecological sensitivity, cultural authenticity, and a conservation-first approach. Guulabaa’s layout uses elevated decks and pavilion structures to immerse visitors in the forest while keeping disturbance minimal. A co-design process with First Nations partners ensured Indigenous knowledge guided land use and spatial storytelling. The facility incorporates fire-resilient, locally sourced hardwoods and modular construction to enable low-impact, efficient assembly. The site’s placement near a major highway makes it easily accessible, while still feeling remote. The result is a regenerative, educational, and environmentally responsible space that blends nature, culture, and science into a lasting visitor experience.

Guulabaa has redefined what a conservation space can be, part sanctuary, part storytelling platform, and part community hub, delivering impact that is environmental, social, and cultural. It supports koala recovery through the world’s first wild breeding program and educates visitors on conservation and caring for Country. The project strengthens regional identity, boosts eco-tourism, and is built on deep partnerships with Indigenous leaders, government, and community. Since opening, Guulabaa has earned strong community support, national recognition, and growing visitor interest, setting a new benchmark for nature-based, culturally grounded design in Australia’s public spaces.

•World-first koala breeding centre: Purpose-built to support the breeding and rewilding of koalas, the facility prioritises habitat authenticity, strict biosecurity, and minimal human contact to ensure successful reintegration into the wild. •The Hub: A series of elevated timber decks guides visitors through the forest canopy, offering panoramic views and seamless access to key experiences including the Breeding Centre, Bunyah Café, Bunyah Bilbay Cultural Centre, and WildNets. •Cultural integration: Developed in close partnership with the Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council, the site thoughtfully incorporates First Nations knowledge into both its design and daily operations, ensuring that culture is actively lived and respected throughout the experience. •Sustainable materials: Locally sourced, fire-resistant Tallowwood and carbon-positive Weathertex were selected for their environmental performance, resilience, and low impact. •Collaborative delivery: The project was realised through a strong partnership between Gensler, Forestry Corporation of NSW, Koala Conservation Australia and First Nations organisations. •Recognition and awards: Guulabaa has received several accolades including the Gensler Community by Design Award and the Port Macquarie Hastings Council’s Citizen of the Year Award, recognising its community impact and design excellence.