What do you have in common with entertainment industry sweetheart Johnny Depp? Probably not a lot, but that can change with a visit to Koala Park Sanctuary in the Hills District of Sydney.
Depp and friend.
This unassuming wildlife park is an appealing destination for Depp, tourists, and locals alike because it serves up fascinating Australian animals in an intimate setting. Set on ten acres of eucalypt rich land just 30 minutes from the CBD, Koala Park is not as flashy as Taronga Zoo and feels more like a relaxed bushwalk with some furry friends.
The Sanctuary has been operating for more than 80 years, so they certainly know what they're doing when it comes to animals. Koalas are undoubtedly the headline act. It was founder Noel Burnet's concern for their welfare that led to the establishment of the park. His goal was to protect koalas from the fur trade and provide them with an environment where they could live and breed safely. They are fed four times a day in front of their adoring fans (10:20am, 11:45am, 2:00pm, 3:00pm). They spend much of their remaining time sleeping, waking only to nibble on a eucalyptus leaf or shuffle to a more comfortable branch. Knowledgeable staff on hand share anecdotes and answer any questions. Photo opportunities and koala cuddles are encouraged.
One of the park's main assets is its open-plan design. It allows you to wander around at your own pace, much like the peacocks that roam freely along the trails. Along the way you will spot echidnas, emus, native birds, dingos, and wallabies, and the kangaroo enclosure is not to be missed. Feel like patting or hand feeding a kangaroo? Go for it.
The penguin (11:00am, 3:30pm) and wombat (10:15am, 11:30am, 2:15pm, 3:15pm) shows are also a great opportunity to gain some insight into the animal world. Once you've successfully given nicknames to all the penguins and marvelled at the size of the wombats, the next step is to go and watch some sheep being sheared. The demonstration is held twice a day (10:30; 14:30) and also incorporates boomerangs and sheep dogs.
This video provides a taste of what is involved:
If you're planning to visit with a large group, Koala Park offers private guides, meal packages, and a barbeque area.
At typical zoos, visitors have to settle with observing their favourite animals from afar. At Koala Park, you are encouraged to get closer - much closer.
