David Fleay Wildlife Park

Stroll through stunning natural habitats to meet the resident wildlife at this unique Gold Coast park nestled in the heart of Burleigh Heads, beside Tallebudgera Creek.

Dedicated to the memory of naturalist Dr David Fleay, the wildlife oasis is a fantastic family day out, combining  community education, ecotourism and wildlife conservation for a welcoming and immersive experience for all ages.

Not only does David Fleay Wildlife Park feature all of the iconic native wildlife like kangaroos, koalas, emus and wallabies, it's also the place to see cassowaries, bilbies, squirrel gliders, tree kangaroos, Wally the platypus and rarities like the fat-tailed dunnart ( a tiny insect-eating marsupial from the grasslands of north-west Queensland). The park is also the only place where visitors can see the shy bridled nailtail wallaby, thought to be extinct for over 30 years.

A key visitor highlight is meeting and chatting with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) Rangers who can provide some interesting stories and insights into Queensland’s unique and beautiful wildlife. Another is the Fleays in Flight show, where the large birds of prey wow visitors with their spectacular wing spans and speed.

The wildlife park also has a brand new immersive education area, with a themed experience of nearby hinterland parks. Want to learn more? Then head to the Gold Coast and enjoy a relaxing day strolling through the park's beautiful boardwalk and join one of the daily wildlife show, Ranger talks and encounters. Kids can even become a 'Ranger for a Day' during the school holidays, and go behind the scenes in small groups to learn more about caring for and to help feed the native animals.

There's also a special MyRanger mobile app that you can download for free, with information about the park and its wildlife, as well as interactive maps and virtual guided tours. It's just like having a local park ranger in your phone!

Good to know - If you're after a snack, there's an onsite cafe, otherwise there are several cool family-friendly eateries nearby in Tallebudgera, just outside the park's entrance. Take your pick from Parlour Coffee, JFK Woodfire Kitchen & Bar and The Plantation House Cafe, all just a two minute drive down the road.

Image Credits: Top 3 + bottom pics - Mark Rayner Photography©Trekabout Photography;  Fourth pic (eagle) - ©Brittony Adams Photography