Symbio Wildlife Park curator Kylie Elliot and general manager Matt Radnidge put their lives on hold to hand rear Imogen – taking her everywhere with them and never leaving her alone.

They even snuggled with her in bed to replicate the closeness she would experience with her mother in a pouch.

"Hand raising Imogen has been the most challenging and rewarding thing we have ever achieved. It hasn't been an easy journey raising a Joey with nocturnal habits and sharp claws – I definitely have a new respect for Koala mothers!" Elliot told Inside Edition. 

The zoo hopes to eventually transition Imogen back to life in the koala sanctuary with her brother Harry and surrogate mother Kelly.