Running of the koalas causes a stir in Airds as residents try to help out Kerry Ellis helps rescue a koala at risk of being hit by a car in Airds. Picture: Robert Pozo Source: NewsLocal EVERYBODY needs good neighbours - especially koalas. A group of kindly residents of Airds, in southwest Sydney, saved this cuddly critter from a dangerous road when he went walkabout near their homes last week. The adventurous marsupial was seen up a gum tree before he climbed down from his leafy hideout and took off along a busy street. He obviously started to feel uncomfortable because there were a lot of people gathered around. He climbed down the tree and started going towards (the) main road," local Kerry Ellis told the Macarthur Chronicle. Ms Ellis and other quick-thinking locals were able to round the koala up after a short pursuit and release him in bushland. The adventure has renewed calls for greater protection for the city's koala population.