FAQs

Welcome to Jirrahlinga Wildlife Sanctuary! We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions visitors ask. Whether you’re planning your visit, or are curious about our animals, this page will help. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, please contact us directly – we’re always happy to assist.

Opening Hours & Closures

What are your operating hours?

Open 6 days a week, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, closed on Wednesdays.

Are you open every day of the year?

No. We are closed on Wednesdays, Good Friday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.

Do you open on Total Fire Ban days?

No, the Sanctuary is closed on Total Fire Ban days.

Are you subject to weather closures?

Yes. The Sanctuary may close during extreme heat or torrential rain. Please check our Facebook page for updates.

Tickets & Payments

What are the ticket prices?

Tickets start at $22.

Do you accept Senior Cards / Aged Pension Cards?

Yes, we do.

Do you accept Companion/Carer Cards?

Yes, free entry is given to card holders when escorting a client or family member with a current disability card.

Do you accept New Start Cards / Pension Cards?

No, unfortunately we do not.

Do I need to book online?

No. Entry can be paid at the Sanctuary or online.

Do you accept cash and EFTPOS?

Yes, both are accepted.

Can I purchase a gift card?

Yes, gift cards are available online.

Location & Parking

Where is Jirrahlinga located?

We are on Dingo Park Road, Chewton, in Central Victoria, just 10 minutes from Castlemaine.

Do you have off-street parking?

Yes, we have plenty of parking available for cars and buses.

Animals & Experiences

Can visitors feed the animals?

No. Feeding animals can make them very ill, so please do not feed them.

Do visitors pay extra for animal presentations?

No. Presentations are included in the entry fee.

Can we see the animals up close?

Yes, our animals can be viewed closely in their enclosures.

Food & Facilities

Is there a café onsite?

Yes. Our café offers pies, sausage rolls, pasties, toasted sandwiches, cookies, cakes, soft drinks, coffee, and fruit.

Can we bring our own food and drinks?

Absolutely. There are many lovely areas to sit and enjoy your own goodies.

Are photos allowed?

Yes, photography is encouraged.

Special Events

Can you hold a birthday party at Jirrahlinga?

Yes, birthday parties can be hosted at the Sanctuary. Please email us for details.

Group Visits

Do you have school or kinder excursions?

Yes, we cater for larger groups – of all ages. Please see our Schools/Groups page for further details.

Animals & Care

How many animals and birds do you have?

We care for around 300 Australian native animals, including dingoes.

How often are the animals fed?

Our animals are fed daily, 7 days a week.

Can I sponsor an animal?

Yes, please visit our Sponsorship page for details.

Can we bring our pet to the Sanctuary?

No, pets are not permitted unless they are certified service animals.

Community & Support

Do you take volunteers?

Yes! Jirrahlinga is always looking for volunteers aged 16+. Please see the Volunteer page.

Do you receive government funding?

No. Jirrahlinga is a not-for-profit organisation and does not receive government funding or grants. All entry payments go directly towards feeding the animals, vet care, nourishment, and enclosure maintenance.

How long has Jirrahlinga been operating?

We have proudly been operating for 50 years.

What are your Visitor Rules?

Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere within the Sanctuary.

All children must be supervised at all times.