Fred Flies, Reptiles Roar & Birthday Fun Awaits!
Fred the Cockatoo Takes Flight: A New Chapter Begins!
Fred, our 8-metre Sulphur-Crested Cockatoo, has officially moved from Mary O’Connor’s iconic Tree of Life property to his new home at the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary — and the move even featured on Sunrise last Tuesday morning 7th October.
Once perched at the scenic 35-acre property high on Hinterland Way, Fred quickly became a local landmark, visible from the road and attracting countless visitors eager to snap a photo of the towering cockatoo. Fondly nicknamed “Crackers” by the community, he was a beloved fixture and an unofficial “Big Thing” along the Byron Bay Hinterland.
Now, Fred takes his place as the newest stop on Australia’s famous Big Things Trail, joining icons like the Big Banana and the Big Prawn. From his new perch at the Sanctuary in Knockrow, Fred continues to awe visitors, offering a spectacular new landmark and a reminder of our region’s rich wildlife.
The Reptile House Is Almost here!
Mark your calendars for International Reptile Awareness Day, 21st October and when the Sanctuary is opening its brand-new, state-of-the-art Reptile House! This vibrant precinct provides a fresh start for both existing and new residents, with thoughtfully designed habitats that prioritize their wellbeing.
Featuring 28 new enclosures with bioactive environments and innovative co-housing arrangements, the Reptile House showcases a fascinating mix of native reptiles, amphibians, insects, and both venomous and non-venomous species. Visitors can explore creatures endemic to Australia as well as those non-native to the Northern Rivers region, discovering the incredible diversity of the continent’s scaly and slimy wildlife.
More than an exhibit, the Reptile House is an educational hub — offering a hands-on opportunity to learn about often misunderstood species and to appreciate their role in the ecosystem.
A standout feature is “Arthur,” a 5-metre Red-Bellied Black Snake sculpture by Natureworks, designed and community-built with partners like CatGerkeArtist and Dane from Rolling Stone Projects. This installation perfectly blends art, education, and wildlife conservation, creating a must-see new landmark for visitors.11
Birthday Weekend Celebrations – Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th October
We’re turning another year older, and you’re invited! Enjoy $10 entry all weekend and soak up a fun-filled schedule of activities for the whole family:
Face painting and live music in the afternoon
Paper Making Class at $70pp where ALL proceeds will be donated to the Sanctuary by the wonderful Artist Susan from Born in Paper!
Sanctuary Sips for the grown-ups
Lemonade Stand with alcohol slushies
Shaved ice machine to keep cool
It’s the perfect way to celebrate with us this SpringFest with the launch of our Reptile House and with your favorite wildlife!
Halloween Spooks & Family Adventures
Get ready for Halloween fun on Friday 31st October & Saturday 1st November! Dress up in your spookiest (or cutest) costumes and enjoy special spider-themed drinks while exploring the Sanctuary.
Looking ahead to November, we’ll also be introducing a new adventure activity for families — the perfect way to get active and engaged with wildlife on your next visit. Stay tuned for more details!