Author Bios (50 Words for each Author)

Aaron Tkaczynski is a Senior Lecturer in tourism and events at the University of Queensland, Australia. His research expertise stems from market segmentation. Dr Tkaczynski is extremely interested in research into nature-based attractions, seasonality and cultural festivals.

Sharyn Rundle-Thiele is the Founding Director of Social Marketing @ Griffith. Drawing on her commercial marketing background Sharyn's research focuses on applying marketing to benefit people and the planet.

Abstract (150 Words)

In February 2022, the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) was upgraded to an endangered species in Queensland (QLD), New South Wales (NSW) and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) due to flooding, bushfires and urban development causing significant decline in this marsupial’s numbers in these locations. This paper presents a call for tourism action to save an Australian icon through sustainable tourism initiatives. Studies demonstrating the role that the tourism sector can play in koala conservation are minimal, suggesting there is considerable room for improvement to ensure koalas can be experienced by current and future generations. Through applying a triple bottom line approach, an agenda for sustainable tourism action to conserve koalas is outlined.

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Saving an Australian icon: koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)

In February 2022, the koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) was upgraded to an endangered species in Queensland (QLD), New South Wales (NSW) and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) due to flooding, bushfires and urban development causing significant decline in this marsupial’s numbers in these locations. This paper presents a call for tourism action to save an Australian icon through sustainable tourism initiatives. Studies demonstrating the role that the tourism sector can play in koala conservation are minimal, suggesting there is considerable room for improvement to ensure koalas can be experienced by current and future generations. Through applying a triple bottom line approach, an agenda for sustainable tourism action to conserve koalas is outlined.