History

Dr Colin MacKenzie founded Healesville Sanctuary initially as the Institute of Anatomical Research in 1920.  The 32 hectares (78 acres) site had formerly been part of  Coranderrk, an aboriginal reserve.  In 1927 the sanctuary was transferred to Healesville Council.  MacKenzie was knighted in 1929, and in 1934 the council renamed it the Sir Colin Mackenzie Sanctuary and opened it to the public. Finally, in June 1978, the sanctuary was transferred to the Victorian Zoological Parks & Gardens board.

Habitats

The sanctuary is in a natural bush setting with paths winding through different habitats housing wallabies, wombats, dingoes, kangaroos, and over 200 species of bird.

Main Track: this will take you past the emu, reptiles, amphibians, and the ‘Land of the Parrots’ walk-through aviary.  The aviary is home to budgerigars, Red-Tail Cockatoos, Eclectus Parrots, Lorikeets, Zebra Finches, and Regent Parrots.  Also on the main track is the Flight Arena, where you can sit and enjoy the ‘Spirits of the Sky’ show daily at 12 pm and 3 pm featuring a wedgetail eagle, black buzzard and parrots.

Woodland Track: this track features forest animals such as wombats, wallabies, and lace monitors, as well as kookaburras, pelicans, barn owls, and Tasmanian devils.

Dingo Country: The dingo country track takes you through the dingo habitat. Their habitat is a high, rocky exhibit, offering visitors a chance to see the dingoes up close and learn about their history. Dingoes are related to the Indian Wolf; however, they became genetically distinct after their arrival on the Australian mainland around 5,000 years ago.

Wetlands Track: this is for all the waterbirds, such as black swans, royal spoonbills, etc.

Visiting the zoo

Healesville Sanctuary is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm.

Adult entry is $42; Seniors are $38, and Concession is $31.50. Children under 16 are free on weekends, public holidays, and school holidays. At all other times, children are $21. Entry is free for zoo members.

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