Discover the Guulabaa Wild Breeding Centre in Cowarra State Forest, where conservation meets adventure. Observe resident koalas, explore forest trails, and experience Wildnets Adventure Park—an ideal day trip for wildlife lovers near Lake Innes.
Discover the Guulabaa Wild Breeding Centre in Cowarra State Forest, where conservation meets adventure. Observe resident koalas, explore forest trails, and experience Wildnets Adventure Park—an ideal day trip for wildlife lovers near Lake Innes.
Book with Koala Conservation Australia
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Koala Conservation Australia · Lake Innes, New South Wales
Set against the tranquil backdrop of Cowarra State Forest near Lake Innes, New South Wales, Guulabaa Wild Breeding Centre offers visitors a unique chance to connect deeply with one of Australia's most iconic animals—the koala. This emerging destination, operated in partnership with the Bunyah Land Council and Forestry Corporation of NSW, combines conservation, education, and adventure in a way that few places in the region can match. Though the Koala Visitor & Education Centre is slated to open in December 2024, guests can already experience the heart of Guulabaa through the Wildnets Adventure Park, forest pathways, and the famous Big Koala sculpture.
Visitors are welcomed to observe the resident koalas from carefully designed viewing decks, where the natural habitat remains undisturbed, ensuring the wellness of these vulnerable marsupials. Guulabaa’s Wild Koala Breeding Program is the first of its kind in the area, serving as a vital effort to safeguard koala populations amid increasing environmental pressures. Educational displays and interactive presentations allow visitors to understand the complexities of koala conservation, from the preparation of their specialized diet to the workings of the newly developed koala clinic.
The center’s location within Cowarra State Forest means that beyond the focus on koalas, visitors can stroll serene forest trails shaded by native eucalyptus, offering an immersive Australian bush experience. The opportunity to snap a photo with the iconic Big Koala sculpture adds a touch of local charm, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Wildnets Adventure Park, accessible onsite, invites thrill-seekers to bounce among the treetops, making the venue suitable for all ages and interests. Meanwhile, supporting the Bunyah Land Council’s cafe and artisan shop ensures that guests are directly contributing to the sustainability and cultural heritage of the local community.
Lake Innes, the closest town, provides convenient accommodations and acts as the gateway for travelers eager to explore this unique wildlife sanctuary. Guulabaa stands out as a beacon of hope for endangered koalas and a special destination for visitors who want to engage with authentic conservation efforts while enjoying a memorable outdoor adventure in one of New South Wales' most peaceful natural settings.
easy.
2–4 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels, including families and casual walkers.
No, the Koala Visitor & Education Centre is scheduled to open in December 2024, but other attractions like Wildnets Adventure Park and the Big Koala sculpture are available now.
View resident koalas from designated decks, but breeding yards are off-limits to keep the animals close to their wild habitat.
There are no age restrictions; the center offers activities suitable for all ages, including family-friendly adventures.
Yes, the Bunyah Land Council’s cafe provides snacks and refreshments at an additional cost.
It is located at 8 Guulabaa Way, Lake Innes NSW 2446, accessible by car from nearby towns.
Pets are not permitted to ensure the safety and wellbeing of local wildlife, including koalas.
The breeding program at Guulabaa is a collaborative effort with local Indigenous groups and forestry authorities, showcasing community-driven conservation in New South Wales.
Guulabaa prioritizes sustainable tourism practices and habitat preservation to support long-term koala survival in their native environment.
Koala Conservation Australia is a conservation organisation based in Lake Innes, New South Wales. It operates the Guulabaa Wild Breeding Centre and runs experiences that connect visitors with koala conservation, education and breeding work. The centre sits within Cowarra State Forest and features on‑site attractions including Wildnets Adventure Park and the Big Koala photo opportunity. The organisation offers dedicated programs for school groups, private guided tours, and general admission visits that support endangered wildlife and public education. School group guided tours at the Guulabaa Wild Breeding Centre are led by an education team member and include curriculum‑aligned learning about koalas, habitats, and conservation challenges, plus an opportunity to meet resident koalas. Private guided group tours are led by passionate volunteers and focus on the Wild Koala Breeding Program, close observation of koalas, and insights into ongoing conservation efforts. General admission currently gives visitors access to Wildnets Adventure Park, forest pathways, and the Big Koala while the Koala Visitor & Education Centre prepares to open in December 2024. Information provided by Koala Conservation Australia emphasizes hands‑on education, volunteer involvement, and a dedicated wild koala breeding program. Visitors and groups can expect guided interpretation, volunteer-led tours, and interpretive experiences that highlight local koala conservation work. Locations referenced include Lake Innes, Cowarra State Forest, and Port Macquarie. All program details, schedules, and booking information are managed by Koala Conservation Australia. Booking, group rates, and accessibility information are available directly from Koala Conservation Australia for organisers planning school or private group visits.
Book with Koala Conservation Australia