“Can I pat a koala?” Yes, at Koala Park Sanctuary, you can.
Koala Park Sanctuary is a privately owned wildlife park in Sydney. It is known for its koalas and other Australian animals. The park is set in a rainforest-like area. Welcome to Koala Park Sanctuary.
Noel Burnet founded Koala Park in 1930. He worried about the fur trade decimating koala populations. He feared they would disappear forever. So, he dedicated his life to protecting them. He created a safe place for them to live and breed.
Koala Park Sanctuary spans 10 acres in West Pennant Hills. The park is home to many animals. Besides koalas, you can see kangaroos and echidnas. Also, there are wombats, dingoes, and various bird species.
The park began construction in the 1920s. Initially, it was a 40-acre allotment across Castle Hill Road. The souvenir room and kiosk once served as tea rooms.
Koala Park aims to showcase native Australian animals. It also teaches the public about them. Around 400,000 guests visit each year.
The park has walk-through exhibits. Most animals are behind wire or in cage-style enclosures.
Koala Park once had a live sheep shearing show called “The Stockman’s Camp.” It also featured Australian bush stories. These stories were often told during billy tea presentations.
Koala Park Sanctuary opened a koala research hospital in 1930. It cares for sick and injured native animals. After their recovery, the animals are released back into the wild. The hospital educates the public about native animals. It also explains the challenges koalas face living near humans.
The Koala Park successfully bred sixty koalas in its first 11 years. It claims to be the first sanctuary to breed koalas in captivity.
You can pat the koalas and take photos here at no extra cost. The Koala Park Sanctuary is accessible to people with limited mobility. There are no steps in the park. It’s open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
Remember Noel Burnet as you explore the Koala Park Sanctuary. He dedicated his life to saving these unique animals. His vision made this sanctuary a reality.