Do all kids love animals? Yes. Almost all of them, right? The
reptile kind that have been here some 310-320 million years since the
Carboniferous period, are especially loved by boys. These lizards, crocodiles, snakes and turtles made my decision to take us to
'Naturaliste Reptile Park' easy.
When you arrive at any accommodation, you will usually find information on
'what to do' around the area you have visited. In Busselton, most lodgings will carry leaflets on
'Naturaliste Reptile Park.'
If you're already in Busselton, head west (toward Dunsborough) along Bussell Highway (Albert Street) and continue left at the roundabout towards Vasse. This should take less than twenty minutes to lastly turn right and reach 10 Wildwood Road in Carbunup River.
Prices are reasonable enough and although it is a small reptile park, it feels good to support such a worthy cause. A family of two adults and two children will cost you $28. For single purchase of tickets, it's $10 for adults, $6 for children 3-15 years old and $7.50 for pensioners or seniors.
Upon entry you are immediately immersed in a room full of reptiles, including small crocodiles, oblong turtles or long neck tortoises, venomous snakes (behind glass of course), frilled neck lizards and frogs.
The people running the centre and looking after the animals are lovely and only too willing to interact with and impart information onto those who want to know more. Plaques are set up for those who wish to read about the reptiles themselves.
For an extra surprise you'll find cow-art number 84, the 'Wow Cow,' from CowParade Margaret River, at the front of Naturaliste Reptile Park.
The park is open from 10am to 4pm, with the last entry of the day accepted at 3.30pm. Days of operation are Tuesday to Sunday only, with the exception of Monday on holidays. Call to confirm if school and public holidays are both included on a Monday.
Contact details are:
Phone: (08) 9755 1771
Fax: (08) 9755 1371
E-mail: naturalistereptile@westnet.com.au, or click
here to retrieve their contact form.
