Kyabram Fauna Park

In the heart of Victoria's Goulburn Valley, Kyabram Fauna Park offers an intimate, hands-on encounter with Australian wildlife that feels a world away from the big-city zoos. This family-run sanctuary is home to over 400 native animals, many of which roam in spacious, naturalistic enclosures. The park's commitment to conservation and education shines through in every interaction, from feeding kangaroos to spotting a platypus in its purpose-built habitat. It's a place where you can slow down, connect with the bush, and leave with a deeper appreciation for Australia's unique fauna.

Highlights & What to See

• Walk-through kangaroo and wallaby paddocks – Grab a bag of feed and let the friendly kangaroos eat from your hand; it's an unforgettable, up-close experience.
• Platypusary – The park's dedicated platypus exhibit uses special lighting to mimic dusk and dawn, giving you a rare chance to see these elusive monotremes active and swimming.
• Koala encounter – Observe koalas munching on eucalyptus leaves in their open-air enclosures; the park often runs keeper talks that reveal fascinating facts about these iconic marsupials.
• Reptile house and free-flight bird aviary – Get face-to-face with crocodiles, pythons, and goannas, then step into a walk-through aviary where rainbow lorikeets and rosellas swoop overhead.
• Nocturnal house – Explore a dimly lit indoor space where bilbies, bettongs, and other night-time creatures are active during the day thanks to reversed lighting schedules.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors find that two to three hours is enough to see the park at a relaxed pace, including attending a couple of the daily keeper talks and feeding sessions. If you have young children who want to linger at the playground or picnic areas, plan for a half-day. The park is compact and easy to navigate, so you won't need to rush – and the shaded benches make it a pleasant spot for a leisurely lunch.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Shepparton – Just 20 minutes south, this regional hub offers the Shepparton Art Museum (SAM), the Victoria Park Lake, and excellent cafes like The Flats.
• Echuca – A 40-minute drive west takes you to the historic port town on the Murray River, where you can take a paddle-steamer cruise or explore the old wharf precinct.
• Nagambie – About 30 minutes south-east, this lakeside town is perfect for watersports, wine tasting at Mitchelton Wines, or a round of golf.
• Barmah National Park – A 45-minute drive north-west, this park protects the largest stand of river red gums in the world and offers excellent birdwatching, canoeing, and bushwalking.
• Rochester – A small historic town 25 minutes west, known for its antique shops and the Campaspe River walking trails.

Please check official sources for current details.