An apology for Sam the koala but rescue not what it seemed

Sam the koala sprang to international fame after Victoria's bushfires, but the fuller details are now emerging. Photo / AP

Sam, the most famous koala in the world, is likely oblivious to the interest in her since she was rescued from a charred section of bush in Victoria last week.

The small marsupial with scorched paws became a symbol of hope following the devastating fires in the region, which have so far claimed more than 180 lives.

But the tale of the koala's survival is not exactly what it seemed.

The footage which has captured the world's attention - of volunteer firefighter David Tree feeding Sam water from a bottle - was in fact filmed prior to the deadly bush fires, during a routine preventative backburning operation.

Tree says he only took the video to show his daughter and feels overwhelmed by the international interest that has ensued.