Threatened Queensland rock-wallaby returns home in time for origin

Issued: 7 July 2026

A cross-border conservation effort between Queensland and New South Wales has given a threatened brush-tailed rock-wallaby a second chance in the wild.

After being surrendered as a joey into veterinary care in Casino, the wallaby was transferred to a licensed wildlife carer in Coonabarabran for rehabilitation where it was raised to adulthood.

After being assessed as suitable for release, Rangers from the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) and the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) collaborated on the location.

Genetic testing identified a population near Main Range National Park as one of only two suitable matches for the wallaby.

In early June, the wallaby was released at dusk into bushland near Main Range National Park, giving it the best chance at finding other brush-tailed rock-wallabies.

QPWS Senior Wildlife Ranger Hans Nowak said it was unknown why the female wallaby was surrendered to a vet in Casino.

"I’d like to thank the vet and the work of licenced wildlife carers in New South Wales, as they played a critical part in ensuring the wallaby could be returned to the wild," Mr Nowak said.

"We found scats at the release location, which confirmed the presence of resident rock-wallabies, and the area provides the rocky habitat these animals need to find shelter from predators.

NPWS Project Officer Threatened Species Adam Fawcett said the release was a positive outcome for a threatened species.

"Every successful release is an important step in supporting the recovery of brush-tailed rock-wallaby populations," Mr Fawcett said.

"Maintaining natural behaviours during rehabilitation is critical, and it's rewarding to see that work result in an animal being successfully returned to the wild."

"This project highlights the value of cross-border collaboration to support threatened species recovery."

The brush-tailed rock-wallaby is listed as Endangered in New South Wales and Vulnerable in Queensland, with populations declining due to habitat loss and predation by feral animals such as foxes and cats.

To report sick or injured native animals, please call 1300 ANIMAL or contact your local wildlife care group.