You’ll meet kangaroos, koalas, dingoes, as well as emus, at the Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary, however, that’s where the similarity to other ‘wildlife’ experiences ends. When you visit this sanctuary you’re going ‘bush’. It’s an experience like no other in our region. Walk in the footsteps of the Darkinyoong people who have lived in this area for around 65,000 years. Your family will discover the natural environment and learn from our Aboriginal past.
Think Country. Think Knowledge. Think Learning.
Animal sanctuary
The Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary is an animal sanctuary that runs ‘breed for release’ programs for Bilbies and Brush-tail Rock Wallabies. In addition to the breeding programs, they provide a forever home for rescued unreleasable wildlife, run conservation education programs, and teach visitors Aboriginal lessons from the bush. All funding comes from money raised through visitors and donations, so head down and experience Country.
Under 1 hour’s drive from Lake Macquarie, off the freeway at Calga, explore the Australian bush like never before.
Visit the animals
You can visit the animals on any day of the year, no booking required. Here’s some of the amazing animals you’ll meet.
Native Australian Animals – Kangaroos, Koalas, Tasmanian Devils, Wombats, Emu, Dingoes, Flying Foxes, Quolls and more. Australian Reptiles – Diamond Python, Eastern Water Dragon, Bearded Dragon, Blue Tongued Lizard. Australian Birds and Frogs. Meerkats. Petting Zoo – Hand feed the alpacas and goats. Marvel at Waffles, the not so small miniature pig! Hang out with guinea pigs, rabbits, a whole lot of chickens and some chatty geese.
Walkabout activities
You can hire a ranger for a group activity, or go walkabout yourself, you’ll visit and learn about Aboriginal sites. These include rock engravings and a sandstone shelter where you can see hand paintings made around 4000 years ago. The track is rugged in places, it’s the Australian bush after all, so sturdy footwear is advised! Get in touch with the park to find out what’s possible.
Wake up with the kangaroos
Spend the night with your family in a cabin or tent and wake up to kangaroos and emus peeking through your window. Book an evening ranger tour when you stay. Be guided around the site and discover what comes out at night time.
Animal encounters
Enjoy an animal encounter with meerkats or speed date an echidna, bilby, koala or dingo. This isn’t an opportunity to ‘cuddle’ an animal. Instead, spend time learning and getting to know animals on their terms.
Be prepared for your visit
This is NOT a paved ‘zoo’ with grassy areas to lay down a picnic blanket. Bring a bottle of cold water and wear closed-in flat, comfortable shoes. Pack a strong insect repellent and sunscreen. Don’t forget your hat. A sprinkle of rain won’t stop the rangers heading out on the track, so pack a rain poncho just in case!
Don’t forget to bring lunch
You’ll find picnic tables and chairs to enjoy lunch. Please note, you must eat inside the fenced areas away from the animals. The shop supplies a small range of food, snacks and ice creams, as well as drinks and coffee. We highly recommend packing food, as the shop has a limited supply. You’ll also find a range of souvenirs to remind you of your adventure.
