- More opportunities to experience unique Australian wildlife this summer with Yanchep National Park now home to three new koalas
- Visitors able to view the koalas between 8am to 4.30pm every day
- Expanded wildlife attraction follows record visitation at Yanchep National Park in the 2023-24 financial year
Families will have the opportunity to get a close look at unique Australian wildlife this summer with the introduction of three new koalas to a major national park in Perth's northern suburbs.
The new koalas - Miffy, a seven-year-old female from Ballarat Wildlife Park in Victoria, and Louie and Franklin Doogsie, 18-month-old brothers from Cleland Wildlife Park in South Australia - were released into Yanchep National Park late last month.
They have joined the park's existing residents - 19-year-old Kate and 14-year-old Koodah - who were descended from koalas brought to the park from South Australia in the late-1980s.
Perth Zoo vets assisted the new arrivals throughout a quarantine period, with visitors able to view the koalas between 8am to 4.30pm every day from a boardwalk that winds through a carefully managed habitat.
Koalas were introduced into Yanchep National Park in 1938.
It is the only place in Western Australia where koalas can be seen in the wild, with the park's koalas acting as a satellite breeding population that supports national conservation efforts.
The arrival of Miffy, Louie, and Franklin Doogsie follows record visitation at Yanchep National Park in the 2023-24 financial year, with 400,000 people visiting following an expansion to the local campgrounds and renovations to Crystal Cave.
It builds on the Cook Labor Government's efforts to provide affordable nature-based tourism options throughout WA, including providing free Perth Zoo tickets to every family in the State.
For more information visit: https://exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au/park/yanchep-national-park .
As stated by Environment Minister Reece Whitby:
"We know visitors from Western Australia, interstate and overseas want and value national park tourism experiences that combine the best of nature and culture.
"That's why Yanchep National Park is a such great day out for the family - there's so much to do, including koala viewing, climbing the ropes course in the trees, food and beverage options and more.
"We recognise times are tough for many families, and these koalas will give mums and dads a good opportunity to enjoy an affordable day out with the kids this summer."
As stated by Butler MLA John Quigley:
"Yanchep National Park is a fantastic destination for tourists and locals alike.
"There's a whole range of activities to enjoy, whether you're watching the koalas or having a pint at the Yanchep Inn."
As stated by Pearce MP Tracey Roberts:
"I am thrilled to welcome the arrival of three new koalas at Yanchep National Park.
"These adorable marsupials are sure to thrive under the expert care of park manager Julia Coggins and her dedicated team of park rangers.
"Yanchep National Park, often regarded as the jewel in the crown of the Pearce electorate, offers a stunning array of attractions.
"Visitors can enjoy the historic Yanchep Inn, savour treats at the Chocolate Drops Cafe, explore the enchanting Crystal Cave, and engage in informative Aboriginal education programs led by Derek Nannup, the eco education officer.
"Additionally, the park features a treetop adventure rope course, well-equipped camping grounds, a golf course, and picturesque walking trails.
"Seeing koalas in their natural habitat is always a unique experience, and the addition of this highly anticipated trio will undoubtedly encourage both locals and visitors to explore all that Yanchep National Park has to offer.
"We hope everyone enjoys their delightful presence!"
