Billabong Koala and Wildlife Sanctuary

Just a few minutes’ drive from Port Macquarie’s town centre, Billabong Koala and Wildlife Sanctuary offers an intimate encounter with Australia’s most beloved creatures. This family-run sanctuary is dedicated to conservation and rehabilitation, making it a meaningful stop for wildlife lovers. You can hand-feed kangaroos, watch koalas snooze in eucalypt branches, and learn about the region’s native fauna in a relaxed, natural setting.

Highlights & What to See

• Koala encounters: Get up close to these iconic marsupials in their dedicated habitat, with keeper talks explaining their behaviour and conservation.
• Kangaroo feeding area: Wander into the walk-through paddock where friendly kangaroos and wallabies will eat straight from your hand (feed available on site).
• Reptile and bird displays: See crocodiles, snakes, and colourful lorikeets, plus daily shows that are both educational and entertaining.
• Wombats and echidnas: Spot these shy, native animals in their specially designed enclosures – a rare treat for international visitors.
• Nocturnal house: Step into the dim-lit section to observe bilbies, gliders, and other night-active species.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow around 2 to 3 hours to comfortably see all the exhibits, catch a couple of keeper talks, and enjoy the kangaroo feeding. It’s an easy half-day outing that pairs perfectly with a morning at the beach or a coastal walk. If you’re on a self-drive itinerary, this is a great mid-morning or early-afternoon stop before heading to your next destination.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Macquarie Coastal Walk: A stunning 9 km trail from the town beach to Tacking Point Lighthouse, with ocean views and whale-watching opportunities (June–November).
• Port Macquarie Historic Courthouse: A beautifully restored 19th-century building offering insights into the town’s convict past.
• Sea Acres National Park: Explore a coastal rainforest boardwalk, just 10 minutes south, home to flying foxes and lush vegetation.
• Koala Hospital Port Macquarie: A world-first dedicated koala hospital, where you can see injured koalas being cared for – a perfect complement to the sanctuary.

Please check official sources for current details.