Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary A Haven for Tasmania's Native Wildlife

Located about 30km north of Hobart in Brighton and just 30 min drive from Oceana B&B, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to interact with Tasmania’s native wildlife. As a sanctuary for injured and orphaned animals, Bonorong plays a vital role in the conservation of local species, many of which are unique to Tasmania.

IMAGE CREDIT: ANDREW KNOTT & ATOMIC BLENDER

Unique Experiences at Bonorong 

IMAGE CREDIT: BONORONG WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Animal Encounters: Visitors can engage closely with a range of animals, including the iconic Tasmanian Devil, wombats, koalas, possums, and various bird species. The sanctuary provides daily tours conducted by experienced keepers who emphasize wildlife conservation.

Night Tours: These offer an exceptional experience to interact with nocturnal animals, like the albino possum or tawny frogmouths.

Feeding Sessions: Get a chance to feed various animals, including Tasmanian Devils, koalas, and sugar gliders. One of the highlights is the opportunity for visitors to play tug-of-war with a Tasmanian devil using a wallaby foot.

Education and Interaction: The sanctuary is not only about viewing wildlife but also learning about their habits and conservation status.

Conservation Efforts

• Bonorong is heavily involved in conservation initiatives, operating Tasmania's first 24-hour Wildlife Rescue Service and the only seabird rehabilitation enclosure in the state.

• The sanctuary has established a Wildlife Hospital, the only facility of its kind in Tasmania, offering treatment and care to injured wildlife with the help of trained volunteers and experienced veterinary personnel.

• They also run various breeding and rehabilitation programs for endangered species like the eastern quoll.

Facilities and Accessibility 

IMAGE CREDIT: BONORONG WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

• The sanctuary offers facilities including a gift shop, café, picnic area, and is equipped for disabled access.

• Open from 9 am to 5 pm every day except Christmas Day, it's conveniently located for visitors staying in or near Hobart.

Bonorong's Fundraising Efforts

IMAGE CREDIT: BONORONG WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

The Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary's fundraising project is driven by the "Friends of Bonorong," a fundraising arm for the sanctuary and its Wildlife Hospital & Rescue, including Primary Care Teams. Their goal is to raise funds for immediate wildlife crisis care and ongoing protection of Tasmanian and Australian wildlife. Donations support conservation projects, wildlife hospital care, and rescue work. Contributions can be made via the Friends of Bonorong website, with options for one-off or monthly donations. All donations over $2 are tax-deductible in Australia. For more information, you can visit their donation page here.

Joining the Cause

IMAGE CREDIT: BONORONG WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

Bonorong also offers volunteer training for wildlife rescue and transport, welcoming members of the community to participate in their conservation efforts. 

Visiting Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is not just about seeing Tasmania’s wildlife; it’s about becoming part of a larger effort to preserve these unique species for future generations. It's a must-visit for anyone staying in Hobart and looking to experience Tasmania’s wildlife up close while contributing to their protection and care.

For more information, visit the Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary website or Discover Tasmania’s page on the sanctuary.