Spring Has Sprung!
It's been a big month at The Sanctuary — here's everything that's been happening, and what's coming up next:
Springfest is here!
Springfest is running right through until the end of November, bringing spring energy across the whole sanctuary — from a retail refresh to a printed kids' treasure map for little explorers to follow through the park. It's the perfect season to visit, with new wildlife hats now in the gift shop and plenty more to come.
Biodiversity Month & Save the Koala Month
September is both Biodiversity Month and Save the Koala Month, and we've been celebrating both across the sanctuary. Every species plays a role in the bigger conservation picture — and this month, Arni the koala has been leading the charge, with daily Keeper Talks at 11:30am helping visitors learn what it really takes to protect koalas in the wild.
Mark your calendar for 25 September — Save the Koala Day — our biggest moment of the month, with a special focus on koala conservation and ways you can help, including sponsoring Arni to support his ongoing care.
Glossyfest — 19 September
We're proud to support the first-ever Glossy Festival, held Saturday 19 September (10am–3pm) at Jack Bayliss Park, Kingscliff — free entry for the whole family. The festival celebrates the Glossy Black-Cockatoo, one of the Northern Rivers' most threatened native species, with live shows from the Wildlife Twins, music from Keegan Sparke, a Glossy Calling Competition, wildlife presentations, face painting and food trucks. It's a wonderful community day out, supported by Conservation Volunteers Australia, Tweed Shire Council and the Glossy Black Conservancy.
World Tourism Day — 27 September
To celebrate World Tourism Day, we're shining a light on the incredible tourism partners who help visitors experience everything the Northern Rivers has to offer — koalas included. Keep an eye on our socials for partner spotlights on the day.
School Holiday Programs
We kick off on 28th September with Spring school holidays kick off on 28 September, and we've got a full lineup for young wildlife lovers, including Puggles, Wildlife Guardians, and Keeper for a Day — hands-on programs that let kids get up close with conservation in action. Bookings are open now.
Looking Ahead to October
The wild season keeps going into October:
3 October — Walk On The Wild Side Vintage Fair: our Vintage/Community Markets day, featuring pony rides, face painting, special animal experiences, live music from Lila Swain, market stalls, and drinks available on-site.
17 October — Outdoor Cinema Night: an evening under the stars at Cherry Street, combining wildlife, food and film for a true "Fuel Your Wild" night out.
31 October — Halloween: keep an eye out for spooky (and slightly wild) surprises around the sanctuary.
Come and Say Hello
Whether it's a koala Keeper Talk, a spring school holiday adventure, or a market day out with the family, there's never been a better time to visit. Come for the wonder, stay for the connection — we can't wait to see you.
— The BBWS Team