Jackie Chan’s journey back to the bush

A story of repeated rescue, rehabilitation and return to the wild

Seeing a familiar koala return to the wild after repeated rehabilitation is a reminder of the long-term nature of wildlife care. Few koalas demonstrate this more clearly than Jackie Chan.

Jackie Chan first came into the care of our koala hospital in November 2021 after entering a backyard as a small back joey. Our team searched the surrounding area for his mum, but she couldn’t be located. He was still fully dependent and required specialist care.

After plenty of TLC from our wildlife care team, he grew stronger every day and was finally healthy enough to be released back into his home range in March 2022.

Back into care with chlamydia

For a while, all was well in the treetops. But in February 2024, Jackie Chan returned to our care once more. This time he was rescued with a suspected wet bottom, which is often a sign of chlamydia infection in koalas. Testing confirmed the diagnosis, and he began treatment straight away.

Thankfully, he responded very well to his medication and supportive care. Once he tested negative and had regained his strength, he was released back to the wild again in June 2024.

Injuries faced with determination

Jackie Chan’s third visit came in April 2025 after he was found with serious wounds to his chest, suspected to have been caused by another koala. This was his toughest battle yet.

His injuries required significant veterinary intervention from our dedicated vet team, including multiple surgeries and ongoing treatment.

Through it all, he showed remarkable determination. Slowly but surely, he recovered, healing well enough to be released once more in September 2025.

Another recovery; another release

In November 2025, he returned for a fourth time, again needing treatment for chlamydia. Thanks to early intervention, expert veterinary care and plenty of support from our carers and volunteers, he once again made a strong recovery. In March 2026, he was released back to the wild for the fourth time.

Jackie Chan’s story is one of strength, resilience and second chances. Every return to the wild is a reminder of why wildlife rescue, veterinary care and habitat protection matter so deeply. Stay safe out there, Jackie Chan – back in the bush where you belong.