G’day legends —

It’s me, Elvis, your official ambassador for the Australian Koala Foundation, golden retriever extraordinaire, part-time mischief maker, full-time Koala superfan — and today, unofficially jealous of a dog named Denni!

Now, you know I spend most of my days spreading the word about Koala conservation, keeping my paws muddy, and occasionally getting into strife with the chooks (sorry Mum)… but THIS news story stopped me mid-tail-wag.

So, check this out:

Down in Bolwarra, Victoria, a lovely bloke named Steve Lamplough hears a bit of a ruckus in his yard. He looks up — and who comes bounding toward him? His beautiful golden retriever Denni… with a baby Koala riding on her back like she’s in the Koala Cup!

I’m talking legit jockey style — the joey’s hanging on, bobbing up and down, loving the ride. And Denni? Calm as anything. Just trotting along like it’s her new gig: golden retriever by day, Koala rideshare by afternoon.

Steve was gobsmacked (so was I, mate) — but he made sure everyone was alright. He gently lifted the little one off Denni’s back, popped it up into a nearby gum tree, and watched it reunite with mum not long after. No scratches, no dramas — just two legends minding their business, helping wildlife one piggyback at a time.

I’ve gotta say — Denni, you’re a legend. A golden girl with a heart as big as your paws. Maybe it’s that motherly instinct (Steve said she was an amazing mum to her own pups). Or maybe you’re just as Koala-mad as I am.

Now I’m wondering… why hasn’t a joey ever tried to ride me? I’ve got a sturdy back! I’m loyal! I’ve got excellent ears for balance!

But in all seriousness — stories like this remind us how lucky we are to share our world with amazing wildlife like Koalas. And while Denni was gentle and calm, not all dogs are — so it’s super important to keep your pets leashed near bushland and always be mindful of wild animals that might be nearby.

In fact, some places like Koala Beach in Pottsville NSW, don’t allow dogs at all — because the wildlife is so special, and it needs extra protection. And that’s fair enough, if you ask me.

So, here’s to Denni, to Steve, and to all of you looking out for our tree-hugging neighbours. Keep your eyes peeled, your hearts open — and who knows, maybe one day a Koala will hop on your back too.

Saving Koalas, one tail wag at a time,

Elvis
Official Ambassador
Australian Koala Foundation