Snakes, School Holidays & Starry Nights
We've got a new addition to the Reptile House and he’s made quite the impression!
Meet Scar, our newest Red-bellied Black Snake. While their glossy black scales and striking red flanks may look intimidating, Red-bellied Black Snakes are generally shy animals that prefer to avoid confrontation whenever possible.
Found throughout eastern Australia, these iconic snakes play an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by helping control populations of rodents, frogs and other small animals.
Scar has already settled in well and is quickly becoming a favourite amongst our keeper team. Be sure to stop by and say hello on your next visit—you might just discover a newfound appreciation for one of Australia's most misunderstood reptiles.
👨🍳 Meet Lucas, Our Trainee Chef
If you've stopped by the Café recently, you may have noticed some exciting new flavours on the menu. Helping bring those fresh ideas to life is Lucas, our talented Trainee Chef.
Passionate about creating delicious, family-friendly dishes, Lucas has been working alongside our hospitality team to develop a menu that complements a day spent exploring the Sanctuary. From hearty lunches to café favourites and sweet treats, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Be sure to say hello next time you visit—and don't forget to try one of his menu recommendations!
What’s On
❤️ See You at Love Lennox
We're excited to be part of this year's Love Lennox Festival on Saturday 13 June!
The Sanctuary team will be joining the celebrations with information about our conservation programs, animal encounters and everything happening here at the Sanctuary.
If you're heading along, be sure to stop by and say hello—we'd love to see you there.
🎬 Outdoor Cinema Night Returns X Cherry Street Ballina!
Grab your picnic blanket and gather the family—our Outdoor Cinema Night is back on Saturday 27 June!
We’ve partnered with Cherry Street Sports Ballina - to keep it more local and bring you the ultimate family weekend event! Every ticket gets free entry to the Sanctuary that day during open hours from 8am-4pm, so you can gather the family and join in the cozy fun at Cherry Street in the evening!
There's nothing quite like watching a family favourite under the stars, surrounded by nature and great company. It's the perfect winter evening out for locals and visitors alike.
Bookings are essential, so be sure to secure your spot before tickets sell out.
Book Here
🦘 School Holiday Adventures Await!
Looking for a fun, educational and screen-free activity these school holidays? Our popular School Holiday Programs are back!
Designed for young wildlife enthusiasts aged 5–18 years, these action-packed days give children the opportunity to get hands-on with Australia's incredible native animals while learning about conservation, habitats and animal care from our experienced team.
From meeting fascinating wildlife up close to exploring the Sanctuary and taking part in engaging activities, every day is filled with discovery, adventure and plenty of fun.
$65 per child
This wildlife work shop is available in the school holidays from Monday to Friday, 8 am-4 pm, and is open to primary school children ages 5 to 8.
$90 per child
Your child can spend the day behind the scenes in the Sanctuary, learning about conservation and caring for our wildlife. For children aged 8 to 12
$110 per child
Your child can spend a day behind the scenes with one of our senior keepers during the school holidays. This program is great for kids who want to work with wildlife.
Places are limited and these workshops are always a hit with local families, so be sure to book early to secure your child's spot.