Meet A Koala & Koala Holding

Experiences are subject to change without notice.

9.00am, 11.30am and 3.30pm Daily.

You are welcome to have photos taken with a koala, who is situated in a waist or shoulder height tree, or sometimes even in a keeper's arms.

Stand with the koala for photos - take as many photos as you like, with your own camera - no charge. We are available to take family photos for you!

This koala experience is included in your entry fee!

(Keep reading for Koala Holding information)

The koalas can be viewed at any time, so be sure to visit the Koala area outside of session times too.

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KOALA HOLDING (places are limited)

If you would like to hold a koala, tickets are $35 per person.

Session time: Daily at 12:00pm

Places are strictly limited. We know it can be disappointing if tickets sell out, but limiting the number of holds each day is essential for the health and wellbeing of our koalas. Thank you for showing kindness and respect to our staff who are following procedures that put animal welfare first.

If you miss out, you are still very welcome to attend one of our 'Meet A Koala' sessions during your visit – a close encounter and photo opportunity that is included in your entry fee!

Please read carefully:

  • Where to buy: Tickets are available from the Souvenir Shop only.
  • No pre-bookings: Tickets cannot be reserved or purchased in advance.
  • On sale from 9:00am: Sold on a 'first-come, first-served' basis. While at times they don't sell out at all, during busy peak times, they may sell within the first 15 minutes of opening. We encourage you to arrive early, and purchase promptly on arrival, especially during holiday times.
  • Wait time: The session may run for up to 45 minutes, so please be prepared to wait for your turn.
  • Refunds: Not available for change of mind.
  • Access: Only ticket holders may enter the holding area.
  • Photos: Our keepers will take plenty of photos for you using your own device.
  • T's & C's: Please continue reading below.

Warm Weather

On warmer days, koala holds may be moved to an earlier time to ensure the koalas' comfort. As a guide, this usually occurs when the forecast temperature for Whiteman is 32°C or higher. This decision is made each morning. To confirm the session time for the day, please call 9248 1984 from 8:30am.

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Koala Hold – Health & Safety Conditions

We follow strict animal welfare guidelines and legislation. The health and wellbeing of our koalas is always our highest priority.

Animal Welfare

To keep our koalas healthy and happy:

  • Places are strictly limited so we can follow a carefully monitored handling schedule.
  • Holds are weather dependent and may not go ahead during hot conditions.
  • Only koalas with a suitable temperament (i.e. love cuddles!!) are selected for holding experiences.

Visitor Safety

Your safety is also very important to us. For this reason:

  • Participants must be at least 150cm tall.
  • Participants must be able to stand unassisted, have full use of their arms, and be able to support at least 5kg without assistance.
  • While our koalas are accustomed to human interaction, scratches or bites can occur, and we cannot guarantee they will not happen.
  • A protective vest is provided to help protect your clothing.

Keeper decisions are final

Holds are conducted at the discretion of our trained and experienced keepers. If a keeper believes there is any safety risk to the guest or the koala, they may decline the hold.

Photos

Our keepers will take photos for you using your own device. Please note we do not accept responsibility for photos not taken by our team.

Refund Policy

Please choose carefully, as tickets are non-refundable for change of mind or failure to meet participation requirements.