There are many firsts in our job and last night was one of those for officers from the Upper Mount Gravatt Tactical Crime Squad.

Around 8.55pm a police patrol stopped and spoke to a woman on Newnham Road, Wishart.

The 50-year-old East Brisbane woman was subsequently arrested on outstanding matters and prior to being transported to the watch house was asked if she had anything to declare.

The woman handed over a zipped green canvas bag telling officers it contained a baby koala.

Not quite believing their ears the officers cautiously un-zipped the bag and found this gorgeous boy.

Police are looking into claims by the woman that she found the joey the preceding night on Kessels Road, Nathan and was caring for it.

The RSPCA Ambulance was called and attended the Brisbane City Watch house to collect the joey- who is protected under the Nature Conservation Act.

The koala– believed to be about six months of age- seemed to be in good health, although a bit dehydrated.

“He’s been on fluids but is doing well and will shortly be going out to a carer,” said RSPCA Qld spokesperson Michael Beatty.

“He weighs 1.5 kg and we’ve called him Alfred.”

However the RSPCA is urging anyone who finds a koala not to attempt to handle it.

“Please call our animal emergency hotline on 1300 ANIMAL. Often the animal may have no obvious signs of injury but it can have internal injuries that need immediate attention.”

>

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.