COVID-19 Restriction Updates
CHANGE OF CONDITIONS – Updated 9th November 2020
The Ballarat Wildlife Park is excited to be open and welcoming back all Victorian visitors as of Monday the 9th November
We want to keep all visitors and families safe throughout this time and we have implemented the following protocols in accordance with state law:
Thank you to everyone that has enquired about our reopening, and thank you all for your patience while we have taken the time to review our safety processes across the park in anticipation for reopening.
To ensure safety for visitors, staff and volunteers we have developed a comprehensive plan which includes increased sanitisation efforts, alterations to our cafe service, physical distancing measures, sanitiser dispensers and some areas will have reduced or no access.
We will continue to revisit our plans and update accordingly with changes to government guidelines. Please ensure to check our website before you visit to ensure you know what to expect at that time.
Our much-loved Sumatran Tiger, “Maneki”
It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that yesterday, Greg parker and his family made the difficult decision to say goodbye to our beautiful and much-loved Sumatran Tiger, “Maneki , due to aged-related health issues – a decision that was incredibly difficult for our family and team, but the best call for her welfare.
Our animal care team recently noticed changes in Maneki’s behaviour and immediately notified our resident vet, who consulted with other zoo vets, that are also experienced with big cats.
Sadly, it was discovered she had two tumors, which had rapidly developed and would have significantly impacted her quality of life going forward.
Maneki, who would’ve turned 13 years old today, and our other Sumatran Tiger “Satu”, arrived in Ballarat from Australia Zoo two years ago as part of the global breeding program for Sumatran tigers. It is estimated that only about 400 Sumatran tigers remain in the wild today and they are classified as critically endangered by the IUCN. Maneki played an important role both in the breeding program and as a conservation advocate for her wild counterparts.
Maneki is remembered as a playful and social tiger, who often chuffed with affection when she saw her carers who will miss her greatly. Whilst Sumatran tigers often live solitary lifestyles in the wild, the animal care team will focus extra time and attention on supporting Satu’s welfare as he adjusts to the change.
We would also like to thank those who cared so well for Maneki during her time at Ballarat Wildlife Park, she was surrounded by those who loved her and she will be deeply missed.
Our thoughts are also with our friends at Australia’s Zoo who cared for her previously and whose lives she touched.
Some important things to note:
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Animal encounters are now recommencing on the weekends- see the encounter section for further information.
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The cafe will be open for takeaway only with access to some outdoor seating provided around the park
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Our reptile and indoor crocodile house are now open with limited numbers, you may still view our Alligators, Komodo Dragon and other reptiles in our outdoor exhibits.
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Some areas will be ‘one-way’ only
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The play area near the penguin enclosure will be closed
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Presentations and tours will not be running until further notice
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The Park will conduct scheduled sanitising throughout the day of common facilities
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Hand sanitising is recommended regularly throughout your visit
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Social distancing must be practiced at all times
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Visiting family or recreational groups can have no more than 10 people
Visitors that are feeling unwell / presenting with COVID-19 symptoms are kindly requested to delay their visit until they are sure they are healthy and safe to visit
About Us
We are a family business, which strives to give the best interactive experience with some of Australia’s most unique animals.
The experience we provide you with is based on our passion and knowledge for the job and animals.
Our Animals
Here at the Park we specialise in native Australian animals and a wide variety of exotic reptiles.
From free roaming Kangaroos, Koalas, Wombats, Tasmanian Devils, Eagles, Giant Tortoises, Crocodiles and Alligators to a large display of Lizards and both venomous and non-venomous Snakes.
See our new Tiger Sanctuary, home to our Sumatran Tiger Satu
Animal Encounters
NOW RUNNING ON BOTH WEEKDAYS & WEEKENDS
We offer animal encounters which allow our guests to have a one on one experience with a Meerkat, Koala, Wombat, Snake, Giant Tortoise and more
Patrick the Wombat
Patrick the Wombat was the oldest Bare Nosed Wombat known in captivity. Patrick was listed No.3 by CNN Travel as a great city mascot in the World!
“Our goal is to provide a quality interactive experience between people and animals for the promotion of respect, empathy, and understanding. We contribute to the survival of the environments we ultimately share with them.”
*This can be used on all individual tickets, Family Pass included! But excludes Concession discounted tickets.
Not available with any other discounts or offers. We look forward to seeing you soon!
