Since it was sold in 2016, this six hectare parcel of land has come to symbolise our local koala population's struggle to survive in Port Stephens.

This sorry - and entirely avoidable - saga, which saw a precious parcel of land sold to a property developer, is well known in our community.

After being deemed 'surplus to requirements', the crown land was placed on the market and sold for a measly $250,000 via an online auction just one month later.

The loss of this core koala habitat, and the prospect of land clearing and development, caused anguish and fury within our community.

How could this happen? There was simply no reasonable excuse or explanation.

Ministers who had previously refused to act eventually issued a mea culpa through the government's Hunter spokesperson, Scot MacDonald, who labelled the sale a 'mistake'.

What followed was an uplifting demonstration of community strength, determination, pride and justice.

The Mambo-Wanda Wetlands Conservation Group led the charge. They built their membership, they enlisted advocates, they organised rallies, they lobbied their elected representatives, and they spread the word. The return of Mambo Wetlands became the fight of Port Stephens.

In fact, when I tabled a petition in Parliament calling for Mambo Wetlands to be repurchased, it bore the signatures of nearly a third of all residents in Port Stephens. A remarkable feat achieved over just one Christmas break.

The Mambo-Wanda Wetlands Group - combined with their many, many supporters and allies, including Port Stephens Koalas - have protected our environment and helped save our local koalas.

I offer my thanks and gratitude to everyone who was involved, on behalf of a relieved and inspired community.

The fight to protect our local koalas is ongoing, but this is a time to celebrate our community's win and cherish all that Port Stephens has to offer: a stunning environment with beautiful wildlife, incredible people, and above all a fighting spirit.

This win is yours, Port Stephens.