Ballarat Wildlife Park

Overview Ballarat Wildlife Park is a privately owned animal park situated on 10 hectares of land in Ballarat East. The park specialises in native Australian animals but also features a variety of exotic species. It is home to over 400 animals, including a large population of over 100 free-roaming kangaroos that visitors can hand-feed. Other resident animals include koalas, wombats, Tasmanian devils, emus, meerkats, giant tortoises, and Sumatran/Siberian tigers.

The park offers daily keeper presentations for various animals such as meerkats, penguins, dingoes, reptiles, tigers, and Tasmanian devils. For an additional cost, visitors can book animal encounters for a more personal experience, which may include patting a koala, meeting a giant tortoise, or feeding a tiger, with a professional photo included. The park also runs a "Junior Keeper Program" for children aged 6-15. The family-owned business participates in conservation and breeding programs for endangered species and provides educational programs.

Highlights

• Over 100 free-roaming kangaroos that can be hand-fed by visitors.
• Daily schedule of keeper talks and presentations for animals including tigers, penguins, and meerkats.
• Bookable, close-up animal encounters with species like koalas, giant tortoises, and tigers for an additional fee.

Community Sentiment (The "Vibe")

What parents like: The interactive experience of getting close to and hand-feeding the free-roaming kangaroos is a frequently mentioned highlight. Visitors often describe the park as clean, well-kept, and easy to navigate. The educational talks and the variety of animals are also noted as positives.

What to watch out for: Some paths are on an incline and surfaces can be uneven or slippery when wet, which may be difficult for some visitors to manage. Animal encounters cost extra and it is recommended to book them early on the day as they can sell out. Assistance animals are not permitted to enter the park grounds.

Logistics & Tips

Best for: All ages, with a "Junior Keeper Program" available for children aged 6-15.

Facilities: Café, toilets, accessible toilets with baby change tables, picnic tables, gift shop, and onsite parking including designated disabled spaces. The park is described as accessible, though some paths are sloped or have uneven ground.

Note: Tickets can be purchased online, often at a reduced price compared to the entrance. Animal encounters are subject to availability and weather, so calling ahead is advised. Food for the kangaroos can be purchased at the ticket office.