At the time there was little awareness of ecological issues and the trade was seen as helpful to Australia's balance of payments.

[citation needed] For conservation and humanitarian reasons, the Koala Club of Australia took up the issue.

It is open to the public and provides education about native animals and the problems faced by the koalas living close to humans.

[6] In December 2010, the Department of Primary Industries inspectors reported finding ageing and dirty animal exhibits, drainage problems, and out-of-date records.

A newspaper editor attended the park and claimed a number of issues had not been resolved and believed that animals were suffering.