Healesville Sanctuary

Here are the details of the unmissable attractions in Healesville Sanctuary -

1. Spirits of the Sky

Timings: 12:00 PM,

Spirits of the Sky is arguably the best show in the sanctuary. Marvel at the sight of the enchanting parrots and the iconic birds of prey showing off their flying skills in the popular flight arena.

2. Tales from Platypus Creek

Timings: Monday - Friday: 11:15 AM, Saturday, Sunday: 11:15 AM and 1:30 PM,

This show allows you to come face-to-face with the Platypus like never before. Witness the flat-bill creature in a riverside tank where it interacts with the keeper and enjoys playing in the water. The show also speaks about human contribution in saving Platypus’ natural kingdom.

3. Dingo Country

Timings: 9:00 AM,

Dingoes are one of the most threatened species in Australia. Unravel the stories of the Australian Dingoes and watch the predators in their high exhibit. If you are lucky, you might encounter an adult Dingo on its usual walk with the keeper.

4. Australian Wildlife Centre

Timings: 9:00 AM,

Healesville Sanctuary is internationally known for its initiative in saving endangered species at this wildlife centre. Every year, the centre treats around 2000 sick and injured birds and animals. The Australian Wildlife Centre not only treats sick and injured native animals but it is also a training centre for veterinarians. You can visit the centre, observe live surgeries and meet the vets looking after the animals in need of care.

5. Cool Conservation

Timings: 9:00 AM,

Cool Conservation allows visitors to have a closer look at the breeding programs of the Southern Corroboree Frog and the Mountain Possum. The visitors get a real-time experience of the work that is taking place in the sanctuary to protect the species from extinction.

6. Keeper Talk

Timings: 11:00 AM,

It is an opportunity to hear about the animals of the sanctuary from expert keepers. They provide information about the animals in their care and talk about the conservation programs taking place in the zoo.

Healesville Sanctuary allows visitors to get a close-up encounter with some of the friendly animals in the zoo. You will be accompanied by a knowledgeable keeper who will also share fun and interesting facts. Finally, there is a fantastic photo opportunity.

1. Kangaroos close-up
Cost: AUD 20,
Group size: 8 people,
Feed the Kangaroos in the Kangaroo Island and in turn they will give you a chance to pat their smooth and soft fur.

2. Koalas Close-up
Cost: AUD 20,
Group size: 8 people,
The furry little snoozing Koalas loves human interaction and do not mind posing with you for a lovely snap.

3. Python Close-up
Cost: AUD 20,
Group size: 8 people,
Python encounter is a great way to introduce your kids to the snakes in a friendly manner. The rangers share fascinating stories about their adaptability in the wild.

4. Echidna Close-up
Price: AUD 20,
Group size: 6 people,
An encounter with the short-beaked Echidnas is unmatched. The rangers will tell you how the shy creatures are fed and unique ways to pat them.

5. Wade with a Platypus
Price: AUD 226,
Timings: Wednesday, Friday - Monday: 11:15 AM
This is a lifetime opportunity to get close to the incredible Platypus and play with them in the shallow water. This is your turn to be a Platypus keeper and get to feed and tickle the elusive creatures.

1. Australian Wildlife Experience
Price: AUD 99,
Timings: 10:30 AM,
Enjoy a fully guided tour with one of the knowledgeable rangers who will share unusual stories about Australian native wildlife. He will also take you closer to the koalas and kangaroos so that you get plenty of photographic opportunities with the adorable species. After the tour, you will be offered VIP seating in Spirits of the Sky show.

2. Wine and Wildlife Tour
Price:
Adult: AUD 90,
Children (4 – 12 years): AUD 40,
Timings: Thursday - Monday,
The wine and wildlife tour starts at the sanctuary itself where a guide will take you on an informative tour about the endangered Australian wildlife. From there you will be driving through the spectacular Yarra Valley and reach the De Bortoli Winery. Here you will savour a scrumptious lunch and taste some wine. Finally, the day ends after visiting the Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery. Relish the chocolates and watch the professional chocolatiers busy with their work.

The zoo was formerly called Sir Colin Mackenzie Sanctuary. In 1920, Dr. Colin Mackenzie established the Anatomical Research Institute on the land that was a part of the Coranderrk Aboriginal Reserve. In the year 1927, it came under the management of the Healesville Council and finally the sanctuary gates opened in 1934.

You can always delve into delicious food while wandering through the lush surrounding in the sanctuary. There are a total of three cafes that cater to every budget and taste.

1. Sanctuary Harvest
Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM,
This cafe is considered the biggest amongst all. They serve casual lunch and have a variety of items on the menu.

2. Pavilion Cafe
Timings: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM,
Pavilion Cafe sits in the centre of the sanctuary. It is all about snacks comprising of hot and cold items.

3. Candlebark Cafe
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Candlebark Cafe serves quick bites that you can have on your way. Their menu includes a combination of hot and cold food as well as coffee and ice-cream.

Healesville Sanctuary is located in Badger Creek Road, Healesville VIC, 3777.
By Public Transport: Catch a train to Lilydale Station. From here, take bus no. 685 and then 686 to reach Healesville Sanctuary.
By Road: From the CBD, take the Eastern Freeway and drive along Maroondah Highway in the east. Travel through Ringwood and Lilydale and finally reach Healesville. Turn in the right direction into Badger Creek Road and road signs will guide you to the sanctuary. From Melbourne Airport, drive through the Tullamarine Freeway and turn left to the Western Ring Road. Drive along this road on to Greensborough Highway. Now go through the Kangaroo-Wattle Glen Road and in the end turn right and take a left on to Eltham Road. Follow the road signs to the sanctuary.

1. Do not miss the Spirits of the Sky show
2. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes
3. Try to reach as early as possible, that way you can avoid the crowd

Adult: AUD 37,
Child (4 – 15 years):
Monday to Friday: AUD 19
Weekends and Holidays: No Entry Fee,
Child (3 years and below): No Entry Fee,
Senior: AUD 33,
Concession: AUD 28,
Concession applies for pension-holders, students, disabled people, health care cardholders and veterans. You must possess the valid card to avail the concession

Weekday Family Saver (Applicable Monday - Friday):
2 Adults and 2 Children: AUD 93,
2 Adults and 3 Children: AUD 102.50,
2 Adults and 4 Children: AUD 112,
2 Adults and 5 Children: AUD 121.50