Case Study: Forestry Corporation of New South Wales advances koala conservation and regenerative ecotourism with Gensler

Forestry Corporation of New South Wales builds the world’s first purpose-built wild koala breeding centre with Gensler

Forestry Corporation of New South Wales faced the urgent challenge of protecting endangered koalas and regenerating native forest ecosystems following the devastating 2019-2020 Black Summer Bushfires. They engaged the architecture and design firm Gensler to create a nature-based tourism destination that would also foster cultural education and ecological regeneration.

Gensler designed Guulabaa (Place of Koala), a visitor experience that integrates Indigenous knowledge with contemporary science. The solution included elevated decks, a café, and an educational amphitheatre, using locally sourced hardwood and cultural burn practices. As a result, Gensler created the world's first purpose-built wild koala breeding and rehabilitation centre, which promotes sustainable forestry, creates economic opportunities for First Nations communities, and has won multiple awards for its regenerative design.

Forestry Corporation of New South Wales