In a world where the plight of our planet's wildlife often takes centre stage, a unique and creative force has emerged to champion the cause of the beloved koala. 

On Save the Koala Day (29 September), the Australian Koala Foundation (AKF) will launch an exclusive collection featuring the artwork of acclaimed Mambo artist, Reg Mombassa. This collection is more than just a showcase of artistic talent; it stands as a beacon of hope and unity, dedicated to the preservation of koalas.

Save the Koala Day serves as an annual reminder of the urgent need to protect these iconic marsupials and their fragile habitats. The AKF has acquired satirical artwork from Reg Mombassa's latest collection, "Creatures: Losing the War on Nature," choosing to highlight it as a symbol of resilience and determination.

The artwork acquired from Mombassa's collection is striking, portraying a koala in army attire. It serves as a satirical commentary on the challenges that koalas face in their ever-changing environment. Through Mombassa's lens, koalas are personified as characters who, much like humans, face adversity. This portrayal prompts us to reflect on the plight of the koala and the parallels between their struggles and the challenges faced by humanity in the wake of environmental change.

Reg Mombassa, is a renowned Mambo artist and musician, and explained the inspiration behind the exhibition's themes, which starkly reflect the decline of the koala population: "I've been drawing a lot of koalas because they are an endangered species and one of Australia's most iconic animals. I had this idea that if koalas were a race of humans and they were having their habitat destroyed by another race, they would be fighting back."

Deborah Tabart OAM, Chair of the Australian Koala Foundation, praised Mombassa's work, noting, "Reg's drawings are nothing short of genius. His cynicism, combined with incredible humour, effectively sheds light on the koalas' plight."

For Save the Koala Day, the Australian Koala Foundation extends a invitation to all Australians to wear these exclusive items proudly and join the Koala Army – a united force committed to safeguarding and preserving koalas for future generations.

Tabart emphasised the significance of these exclusive products, stating, "These exclusive products are a must-have for anyone willing to show their unity with the Koala Army – a powerful movement fighting for koala justice on this Save the Koala Day."

By supporting this initiative, individuals can make a significant contribution to the AKF's ongoing efforts to ensure a brighter future for koalas. The AKF's exclusive collection features stylish products adorned with distinctive artwork, offering a tangible way to support koala conservation.

Join the Koala Army. Explore the collection online or visit the Warialda Save the Koala Shop. Additionally, you can continue to support koala conservation by planting a tree, adopting a koala, or making a direct donation to the AKF.