5 things you didn’t know you could do at David Fleay Wildlife Park
Issued: 19 Jun

This isn’t just any wildlife park – it’s your chance to connect with real Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service Rangers. Hear their stories, ask questions, and gain unique insights into the amazing conservation work Rangers do across Queensland and the special animals and ecosystems that make Queensland so special. Discover how you can stand alongside our Rangers as an environmental guardian, playing your part in protecting our natural heritage.

Ready to explore? Here are the top five experiences waiting for you at David Fleay Wildlife Park.

Walk beside a Ranger: Experience, value, protect

Fleay’s in Flight show

Photo credit: Steve Browne © Queensland Government

If you’ve ever been fascinated by Park Rangers—whether it’s from the days of Skippy the Bush Kangaroo or simply a love for nature—you’re not alone. (And if you don’t know Skippy, it’s worth a quick Google!)

At David Fleay Wildlife Park, you’ll have the rare opportunity to meet real Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service Rangers—the true guardians of Queensland's national parks and forests. These dedicated Rangers do more than care for our furry, scaly, and feathered residents; they bring Queensland’s wild places to life. Through their stories, you’ll discover the State's incredible habitats, the unique wildlife that calls them home, and the vital conservation work happening across Queensland.

While you’re welcome to explore the park at your own pace, for an unforgettable experience, join our passionate Rangers for daily wildlife shows, talks, guided tours, and up-close encounters. There’s no better way to connect with Queensland’s wild side and learn how you can help protect it.

Discover Queensland’s most unique wildlife

Bridled nailtail wallaby

Photo credit: Ian Wilkinson © Queensland Government

At David Fleay Wildlife Park, we’re proud to care for a small but remarkable collection of Queensland’s native wildlife. Among our special residents is the rare and shy bridled nailtail wallaby, a species once thought to be extinct for over 30 years. Fleay’s is the only place where visitors can see this unique animal up close. Rediscovered by chance in 1973 by a fencing contractor, this fascinating macropod is now part of a national recovery program led by Queensland, with its wild population slowly growing towards 1000 today. With its nail-like spur at the tip of its tail and distinctive white ‘bridle’ markings, it’s truly one of nature’s wonders.

You’ll also have the chance to meet other local, iconic and rare species, including the elusive platypus, the majestic brolga, the Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroo - yes, a kangaroo that climbs and lives high in the trees of North Queensland - and let’s not forget Frisby, one of the largest estuarine crocodiles in captivity.

While our collection may be small, every animal has a unique story to tell. Our expert Rangers are passionate about sharing their knowledge and inspiring visitors to Experience, value and protect Queensland’s incredible biodiversity. A visit to Fleay’s is your chance to connect with some of the state’s most fascinating species and discover the National Parks to visit and how you can play a part in safeguarding the future of these unique wildlife and special places.

A legacy of conservation and care

Dr David Fleay

Photo credit: Courtesy of David Fleay Trustees

The 1950s were an era of sock hops, drive-ins, and the birth of rock ‘n’ roll. While many were ‘jitterbugging’ their way through the decade, Dr David Fleay was busy creating something truly extraordinary – a fauna reserve in West Burleigh on the Gold Coast. At a time of new ideas and bold innovation, Dr Fleay introduced a revolutionary approach to wildlife conservation and education, offering a different kind of animal experience.

A world-renowned naturalist, Dr Fleay achieved groundbreaking success, becoming the first to captive-breed 42 species, including platypus, wedge-tailed eagles, and powerful owls. His vision was ahead of its time: animals should live in habitats that closely mimic their natural environments, allowing them to thrive, breed, and be studied. But just as importantly, he believed people should have the chance to walk among these animals, fostering a deeper understanding of the value of our natural world and the species that call it home.

Fast forward 74 years, and while you won’t find a ‘hand jive’ on the dance floor, you will find that Dr Fleay’s vision lives on. Today, David Fleay Wildlife Park continues to honour his legacy, offering visitors the chance to learn as they wander through lush, natural habitats and encounter some of Queensland’s most unique wildlife.

Come and experience the magic of Dr Fleay’s dream for yourself. Discover the incredible creatures that call Queensland home and gain a deeper appreciation for the vital role our protected areas play in preserving these natural treasures for generations to come.

Inspire the next generation of environmental guardians

Become a Junior Ranger for a day

Photo credit: Maxime Coquard © Queensland Government

Do your kids love the great outdoors and have a fascination with curious critters – mud, mess, and all? Or maybe you’re looking for a way to get them off their screens and into nature for a few hours? At David Fleay Wildlife Park, we’ll have them exploring the wonders of the wild, breathing in fresh air, and discovering how they can stand alongside our Rangers as environmental guardians.

Our Junior Ranger programs offer children the chance to step into the boots of real Rangers. They’ll learn how to care for native animals, go behind the scenes to help feed and care for our furry, scaly, and feathered residents, or get their hands dirty exploring the muddy mangroves while discovering the fascinating marine life within.

And it’s not just the kids who can join the fun! Check out our family programs and share these unforgettable experiences with your children.

Places are limited, so don’t wait – book your Junior Ranger experiences today and give your family the opportunity to connect with nature, learn from our expert Rangers, and discover how to experience, value, and protect Queensland’s incredible biodiversity.

Relax, refuel and celebrate at Fleay’s Café

David Fleay Wildlife Park

Photo credit: Ian Wilkinson © Queensland Government

Need a break during your wildlife adventure? Fleay’s Café, located in the Visitor Centre, is the perfect place to recharge. Enjoy a delicious bite to eat or a freshly brewed coffee while soaking in the tranquil surroundings of the park’s natural beauty.

But that’s not all – Fleay’s is more than just a wildlife park; it’s also a stunning destination for your most special moments. Whether you’re planning a small, intimate elopement or a grand gala wedding, our newly renovated ceremony and reception spaces provide a serene sanctuary like no other. Exchange your vows in The Grove, a charming and intimate setting, or host a spectacular celebration in our Lakeview Amphitheatre, surrounded by some of Australia’s most unique and unspoiled nature, right in the heart of the Gold Coast.

And for the little ones, why not throw a WILD party they’ll never forget? Celebrate their special day with native wildlife, where they can meet soft and scaly visitors and learn about the incredible work of Queensland Parks and Wildlife Rangers.

Whether you’re stopping by for a coffee, planning a magical wedding, or hosting a one-of-a-kind celebration, Fleay’s offers a truly unique experience that will leave lasting memories for you and your loved ones.

Convinced?

This is one wildlife park you’ve just got to visit, right? Find out more about David Fleay Wildlife Park.

Before you visit, make sure to download the free MyRanger mobile app to make your experience even better! With lots of information about the park, its wildlife and biodiversity, interactive maps, and  Ranger guided tours – it’s like having a Park Ranger in your pocket!