Native and exotic animals, both land-based and marine, plus the loss of habitat will be explored in the Nelson Bay centre’s exhibition titled Our Threatened Species.

“There are a lot of people these days who are very passionate about the environment,” centre member and artist Nada O’Loughlin said.

“Members of the Port Stephens Community Arts Centre decided to put together an exhibition of paintings related to this topic.

“We have been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm of our members who have produced many paintings of a great variety [including] threatened species of Australia and the world, native flora and fauna, creatures of the ocean, our waterways and loss of habitat for all creature, plus the destruction caused by man.”

Paintings of exotic animals such as tigers, elephants and rhinoceros will hang alongside those of koalas.

The exhibition featuring artworks of koalas is particularly timely, as it follows the sale of prime koala habitat within the Mambo Wanda Wetlands in June.

While the sale of the Salamander Bay land did not directly prompt the centre to hold the threatened species exhibition, Mrs O’Laughlin said they were intertwined.

“If we don’t band together to do small things to save these species and our environment, to preserve them, then what are we leaving behind?” she asked.

“You would hate to think that there will be no koalas left for your grandchildren to see.

“This exhibition is about education. Bring the family, the children, along and learn about what animals are in danger of extinction not only in Australia, but the world.”

Our Threatened Species is available to see in the centre’s main gallery until August 9.

The opening will be held on Monday, July 4, from 11am.

It will cost a gold coin on entry, but will include tea, coffee, light refreshments plus talks from a National Parks and Wildlife Services staffer and Tilligerry Habitat volunteer.

Port Stephens Community Arts Centre is located in Cultural Close. it is open 10am to 4pm daily.