Reptile Encounters Education Centre

Overview Reptile Encounters is an educational organisation that provides interactive experiences with native Australian wildlife. Based at its headquarters in Burwood, the centre houses a variety of animals, including reptiles, marsupials, birds, and insects. The business offers programs both at its own facility and as mobile incursions, travelling to schools, parties, and corporate events across Melbourne.

The core offering focuses on educational presentations and hands-on encounters designed to be suitable for a range of audiences. Programs are developed to complement the Victorian curriculum for school groups from preschool to secondary levels. In addition to educational incursions, Reptile Encounters hosts children's birthday parties, corporate team-building events, school holiday programs, and guided tours of its headquarters.

Highlights

• Hands-on opportunities for visitors to get up close with, touch, and hold a variety of native Australian animals.
• A range of programs including guided HQ tours, "Zookeeper for a Day" experiences, and curriculum-aligned school incursions.
• Specialised programs are available, including NDIS-supported offerings for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Community Sentiment (The "Vibe")

What parents like: Presenters and staff are consistently described as knowledgeable, passionate, and engaging with children. The educational and interactive nature of the presentations is frequently praised. Reviewers have also noted that the team is supportive and accommodating for children with autism.

What to watch out for: Visits to the headquarters are not for general admission and must be scheduled in advance for a specific tour or program. Open day sessions are for fixed time slots, typically one hour.

Logistics & Tips

Best for: Programs are available for preschool, primary, and secondary school ages. "Zookeeper for a Day" programs are offered for specific age groups (e.g., 7-11 years and 12-18 years).

Facilities: Parking, toilets, and pram accessibility are not specified.

Note:

• All visits to the Burwood headquarters, including tours and holiday programs, require pre-booking.
• The organisation also provides mobile incursions, bringing the animal experiences to private parties, schools, and events.
• Reptile Encounters hosts periodic "Open Day" events that allow for behind-the-scenes access to the facility.