In conjunction with the global celebration of World Wildlife Day (March 3), Queensland Police are reinforcing a message that carries particular relevance for Tarragindi — every decision behind the wheel plays a role in protecting vulnerable road users.
Together with Australia Zoo and Wildlife Warriors, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) is urging motorists to remain vigilant, reminding the community that Queensland roads are shared not only with drivers and pedestrians, but also with native wildlife.
Every day, road users encounter what police describe as precious “little feet”. Whether it is a child walking ahead on a suburban footpath or a joey following its mother across a verge, the risks can be similar — sudden movements and limited reaction time.
“Children and wildlife can be unpredictable – they can move suddenly and enter roadways without warning,” Chief Superintendent Mark Wheeler said ahead of World Wildlife Day.
“Drivers must remain alert and anticipate the unexpected, especially in and around school zones, footpaths, parks and rural areas,” he said.
Toohey Road and Habitat Connectivity
For Tarragindi, where residential streets border the bushland of Toohey Forest, the warning is especially relevant. Toohey Road runs through connected habitat areas supporting koalas and other native species.
Earlier this year, a wildlife underpass beneath Toohey Road was completed to help reduce the risk of animals entering traffic lanes. Located southwest of the Toohey Picnic Area, the project aims to strengthen habitat connectivity while improving safety outcomes for both fauna and motorists.
The underpass includes a 2.4-metre by 2.4-metre culvert installed beneath the roadway, with a raised log pole frame providing a bridge-style crossing for wildlife. Mulch and natural materials were added to encourage use, and fauna fencing with escape hatches was installed along both sides of the road to guide animals safely toward the structure.
While the infrastructure provides a safer crossing option, authorities stress that driver behaviour remains critical.
Road Safety and Shared Responsibility
Vehicle strikes remain a major cause of injury to native animals statewide. At the same time, low-speed suburban environments continue to present risks for young pedestrians.
“Something as simple as reducing your speed, scanning verges and footpaths, and eliminating distractions can prevent devastating outcomes,” Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.
Police have reiterated that speeding, distraction, driving under the influence and failing to wear a seatbelt significantly increase the risk of serious incidents. Enforcement operations continue across Queensland.
Wildlife Trauma Season
The lead-up to World Wildlife Day also coincides with what wildlife carers refer to as “trauma season”. Between September and February, wildlife is more active as animals breed, forage and explore.
Wildlife conservationist Bindi Irwin said road trauma places sustained pressure on rehabilitation services.
“Every year, we see an influx of patients who sustain life-threatening injuries from vehicle strikes, requiring urgent treatment and around-the-clock care at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital,” she said.
The most recent season recorded almost 2,000 more patients than the previous year.
As World Wildlife Day approaches, authorities are highlighting the intrinsic link between road safety and conservation. In suburbs like Tarragindi — where bushland, parklands and commuter traffic intersect — the reminder is clear.
Slowing down, scanning verges and removing distractions are small actions that can have significant impact.
Safer roads start with individual choices.
Published 27-Feb-2026. Updated 3-March-2026.
