Phillip Island tours
Tickets
English
Language
Currency
Contents

Your Guide to Koala Conservation Reserve

Melbourne To Phillip Island ToursKoala Conservation Reserve

Koala Conservation Reserve | Visit Some Adorable Australian Marsupials

The Koala Conservation Reserve is a protected area in Australia that is dedicated to the conservation of koalas and their habitat. The reserve, located in Phillip Island, Victoria, covers over 10 hectares of land and is home to a large number of koalas and other native Australian wildlife. Visitors can take part in guided tours and learn about koala conservation efforts and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The reserve is an important part of Australia's efforts to protect and preserve its unique flora and fauna.

Why Visit Koala Conservation Reserve

  • See koalas in their natural habitat: The reserve is home to a large number of koalas, and visitors can see these iconic Australian animals up close in their natural environment.
  • Learn about koala conservation: The reserve offers guided tours and educational programs that teach visitors about the challenges facing koalas and the efforts being made to protect them.
  • Support conservation efforts: By visiting the reserve, you are helping to support koala conservation efforts in Australia. The proceeds from your visit go towards the care and protection of the koalas at the reserve.
  • Enjoy the natural beauty of the area: The reserve is located in a beautiful part of Victoria, with stunning views and plenty of opportunities for nature walks and hiking.
  • See other native Australian wildlife: In addition to koalas, the reserve is home to other native Australian wildlife such as wallabies, echidnas, and birds.
  • Family-friendly activities: The reserve offers activities that are fun for the whole family, including guided tours, koala encounters, and interactive exhibits.
  • Environmental sustainability: The reserve is committed to environmentally sustainable practices and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, making it a great choice for eco-conscious travelers.

Where is Koala Conservation Reserve Located?

Address: 1810 Phillip Island Rd, Rhyll VIC 3923, Australia

Find On Map

Getting There

  • By Car: The reserve is about a 90-minute drive from Melbourne. You can take the Monash Freeway (M1) and then the South Gippsland Highway (M420) to reach Phillip Island.
  • By Bus: Take a bus to the town of Cowes on Phillip Island. The bus company that operates this route is called "V/Line" and departs from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne. Once you arrive in Cowes, you can take a taxi or hire a car to reach the Koala Conservation Reserve, which is located on Phillip Island Road, about 5 minutes from Cowes.

Koala Conservation Reserve Timings

Opening Hours

The reserve is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day (December 25th) and operates on the following schedule:

  • Summer season (December to April): 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
  • Winter season (May to November): 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Note that the last admission is half an hour before closing time, so it's important to arrive at the reserve with enough time to enjoy all the exhibits and activities. Additionally, some experiences and tours may have different operating hours or require advance booking, so be sure to check the website or call ahead if you have specific plans or interests. 

Best Time to Visit Koala Conservation Reserve

The Koala Conservation Reserve can be popular with tourists, especially during the peak summer months of December and January. If you prefer a quieter and more peaceful experience, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder season (April to May or September to November).

Koala Conservation Reserve History in a Nutshell

The Koala Conservation Reserve was established in the 1980s in response to declining koala populations on Phillip Island and across Victoria. The reserve was created to protect koalas and their habitat, and to provide a place where visitors could learn about and interact with these beloved animals.

Over the years, the reserve has played an important role in koala conservation, working with government agencies, research institutions, and community groups to promote koala welfare and protect their environment. Today, the reserve remains a popular destination for tourists and a vital hub of koala conservation efforts.

Koala Conservation Reserve Highlights

Koala Viewing

The two boardwalks in Australia where you can view Koalas are the Koala Boardwalk in Kennett River and the Eucalyptus Walk in the Otway Ranges. Visitors can spot wild koalas in their natural habitat and learn more about their behaviors and conservation efforts.

Nature Play Area for Kids

The Nature Play and Art Area features a range of interactive and creative activities, including a rock-climbing wall, a mud kitchen, sand play areas, and an art wall where children can draw and paint pictures of the animals they see in the reserve.  

Spot More Australian Wildlife

In addition to koalas, the reserve is home to other wildlife such as wallabies, echidnas, and a variety of bird species.

Koala Cafe

The center also has a cafe where visitors can purchase snacks, drinks, and light meals. The cafe is located in a beautiful bushland setting and offers views of the reserve and its surroundings. 

Walking Trails

The Koala Conservation Reserve on Phillip Island has a range of walking trails that visitors can explore to see Koalas and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Seed Stations

Koala Conservation Reserve has seed stations, which are areas where visitors can learn about native plants and their role in providing food and habitat for wildlife. Visitors can often purchase native plant seeds to take home and plant in their own gardens, helping to create a habitat for local wildlife. 

Koala Conservation Reserve Rules & Regulations

  • Do not touch the koalas or any other animals in the reserve. Koalas are wild animals and can be easily stressed or injured.
  • Stay on designated paths and trails to avoid damaging the vegetation and disturbing the wildlife.
  • Do not feed the koalas or any other animals in the reserve. Human food can be harmful to their health and disrupt their natural diet.
  • Do not litter. Take your rubbish with you and dispose of it properly.
  • Keep noise levels low and avoid sudden movements or loud noises that can startle the animals.
  • Respect the staff and volunteers working in the reserve. They are there to help you and ensure the safety and well-being of the animals.
  • Photography is allowed, but the use of flash or other intrusive equipment is not permitted. Be mindful of other visitors and do not block paths or obstruct views.
  • Smoking is not allowed in the reserve.

All Your Questions About Koala Conservation Reserve Answered

What is the Koala Conservation Reserve?

The Koala Conservation Reserve is a protected area of bushland on Phillip Island in Victoria, Australia, that is dedicated to the conservation and protection of the Koala population. The reserve is home to a large number of wild Koalas and other native wildlife species, such as wallabies, echidnas, and birds.

Is Koala Conservation Reserve open to the public now?

Yes it is! However, it is always recommended to check the official website or social media pages of the Koala Conservation Reserve before planning your visit for any updates or changes to operating hours or closures due to unforeseen circumstances or events.

Do I need tickets to enter Koala Conservation Reserve?

Yes, visitors to the Koala Conservation Reserve on Phillip Island are required to purchase tickets to enter the reserve.

Where can I buy tickets for Koala Conservation Reserve?

Tickets can be purchased online through the official website of the reserve or at the visitor center upon arrival.

Why is Koala Conservation Reserve famous?

The Koala Conservation Reserve on Phillip Island is famous for its efforts to protect and conserve the koala population in Australia by providing a protected habitat for these animals and educating the public about their conservation.

Why should I visit Koala Conservation Reserve?

Visiting the Koala Conservation Reserve allows you to observe wild koalas in their natural habitat and learn about the conservation efforts being made to protect them. It is a unique opportunity to experience Australia's iconic wildlife and support their preservation.

Is Koala Conservation Reserve worth visiting?

Yes, the Koala Conservation Reserve is definitely worth visiting. It is a unique and special place where visitors can see wild koalas in their natural habitat and learn about their conservation.

When did Koala Conservation Reserve open?

The Koala Conservation Reserve on Phillip Island officially opened in 1990, with the aim of providing a protected habitat for wild koalas and educating the public about their conservation. Since then, the reserve has grown to become a significant center for koala research, education, and conservation.

Who founded/created the Koala Conservation Reserve?

The Koala Conservation Reserve on Phillip Island was created through a joint effort between the Victorian Government and the Phillip Island Nature Parks Board of Management.

Why was Koala Conservation Reserve built?

The Koala Conservation Reserve was built to protect and conserve the habitat of koalas, as well as to provide a safe environment for injured or orphaned koalas to be rehabilitated and released back into the wild.

Where is Koala Conservation Reserve located?

The Koala Conservation Reserve is located in Phillip Island, Victoria, Australia. It covers around 10 hectares of land and provides a safe environment for injured or orphaned koalas.

What are the timings for Koala Conservation Reserve?

The Koala Conservation Reserve is open every day of the year, including holidays, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. However, the opening hours may vary on some occasions, so it is best to check the official website before planning a visit.

How much time do you need at Koala Conservation Reserve?

The amount of time needed at Koala Conservation Reserve depends on the visitor's interests and the type of tour they choose. A self-guided tour may take around 1-2 hours, while a ranger-led tour can take up to 2.5 hours.

Is the Koala Conservation Reserve wheel-chair friendly?

Yes, the Koala Conservation Reserve is wheel-chair friendly, with wheelchair access to most areas of the reserve. However, visitors are advised to note that some parts of the reserve are hilly, and may require additional assistance.

How big is Koala Conservation Reserve?

The Koala Conservation Reserve in Phillip Island, Victoria, Australia covers around 10 hectares of land.