Ballarat Wildlife Park celebrates 40th anniversary

Ballarat Wildlife Park has marked a milestone 40 years since opening its gates in February 1985, celebrating its legacy as one of Australia’s premier wildlife experiences.

Established by founder Greg Parker, the privately owned Park has grown into a thriving sanctuary for over 300 animals, blending conservation, education and hands-on experiences to inspire a love for wildlife.

“It’s been a very quick 40 years,” Parker said. “We’ve faced many challenges along the way, 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.”

Set across 10 hectares in Ballarat East, the park is renowned for its extensive collection of wildlife. It includes over 100 free-roaming kangaroos, Victoria’s largest colony of koalas in human care, exotic species like Sumatran and Siberian tiger and a comprehensive array of reptiles, featuring taipans, rattlesnakes and Komodo dragons.

The Park has also played a vital role in conservation, being the first privately owned facility to breed Tasmanian devils on the mainland and contributing to koala preservation efforts.

A core focus of the park has always been hands-on education.

“If you let someone touch a snake, it can completely change their perception,” Greg Parker added. “People often say, ‘I didn’t know they felt like that!’ It’s about breaking down barriers and fostering a deeper connection with wildlife.”

Over the years, the park has attracted high-profile guests, including Hollywood stars Nicolas Cage and Jerry Lewis, reinforcing its reputation as a must-visit wildlife destination.

“We’ve had so many interesting people visit over the years, and they always leave with a newfound appreciation for wildlife,” Greg Parker said.

As it looks to the future, Ballarat Wildlife Park remains committed to maintaining an authentic world-class environment for its animals and guests.

“We want to stay small but beautiful, providing five-star accommodation for our animals while continuing to educate and inspire,” Greg Parker continued. “In today’s world, where so many people grow up in urban environments, it’s crucial to keep them connected to wildlife.”

The 40-year milestone will be marked with a series of special events, interactive experiences, and behind-the-scenes tours, allowing guests to celebrate alongside the animals and dedicated staff who have made the Park a success.

“We have always done as much conservation work as possible, and this anniversary is a great opportunity to reflect on our achievements and look ahead to an even brighter future,” Parker concluded.