Ballarat Wildlife Park is celebrating a major milestone: 40 years since its opening in February 1985. Over the decades, it has become one of Australia’s top wildlife destinations.
Founded by Greg Parker, the park started as a small, privately owned sanctuary and has now grown into a thriving home for more than 300 animals. Its focus on conservation, education, and hands-on experiences has helped foster a love for wildlife among visitors.
Reflecting on the journey, Parker shared, “It’s been a very quick 40 years. We’ve faced many challenges, but we’ve built a beautiful animal collection that we’re incredibly proud of. Our team is fantastic, and we’ve created something truly special for both our animals and guests.”
Spanning 10 hectares in Ballarat East, the park is known for its diverse wildlife. Visitors can interact with over 100 free-roaming kangaroos, see Victoria’s largest colony of koalas in human care, and get a close look at exotic species like Sumatran and Siberian tigers. The park is also home to reptiles, including taipans, rattlesnakes, and Komodo dragons.
In addition to its animal collection, the park has played a key role in conservation. It was the first privately owned facility to successfully breed Tasmanian devils on the mainland and continues to support koala preservation efforts.
Education has always been at the heart of the park’s mission. “If you let someone touch a snake, it can completely change their perception,” Parker said. “People often say, ‘I didn’t know they felt like that!’ It’s about breaking down barriers and building a deeper connection with wildlife.”
Over the years, the park has welcomed many famous guests, including Hollywood stars like Nicolas Cage and Jerry Lewis. These visits have helped solidify its reputation as a must-see destination for wildlife lovers.
Looking to the future, the park aims to stay small but impactful. “We want to stay small but beautiful, providing five-star accommodation for our animals while continuing to educate and inspire,” said Parker. “In today’s world, where many people grow up in urban environments, it’s important to keep them connected to wildlife.”
To celebrate its 40th anniversary, Ballarat Wildlife Park will host special events, interactive experiences, and behind-the-scenes tours, allowing guests to join in the celebration with the animals and staff.
“We’ve always focused on conservation, and this anniversary gives us a chance to reflect on our achievements and look forward to an even brighter future,” Parker concluded.
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