Get Up Close and Personal with Aussie Animals

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Written By Alyssa Mackay

The whole family is in for an unforgettable experience these school holidays at a special Wildlife Safari featuring Ranger Stacey and the D’Aguilar Wildlife team.

Get ready to explore the wonders of the most amazing Australian animals with an engaging and educational stage presentation on Tuesday, 24 September at The Sands Bowlo.

Ben Bawden, Director of D’Aguilar Wildlife, said participants could get up close with a range of native Australian animals, including snakes, lizards, mammals and even a koala.

“Hosted by our good friend, Ranger Stacey, the morning is sure to be a great time for learning and interaction, all tied together with Ranger Stacey’s wildlife anecdotes,” Ben said.

Ranger Stacey Thomson’s career as a ranger and television presenter has spanned nearly four decades. 

“I’ve had the privilege of educating and entertaining generations of children about the natural environment, including all of the fascinating and unique animals that call Australia home,” Ranger Stacey said.

“I love to see the sense of wonder on a child’s face when they see a mammal up close or get to touch a reptile for the first time. It’s all about making a connection and appreciating wildlife, so we can play a part in protecting it.”

Experience Aussie Wildlife with Rangers at The Sands Bowlo’s Exciting Safari Event

Photo of wildlife ranger and host with koala
Ranger Stacey with D’Aguilar Wildlife Director Ben Bawden

D’Aguilar Wildlife specialises in wildlife experiences, displays and providing animals for film and television. While they have been building their own wildlife facility, they have been providing mobile experiences for everyone to enjoy.

“We have been lucky enough to visit hundreds of thousands of people over the last decade and what I enjoy the most is sharing those unique aspects of our animal’s behaviour that make them special,” Ben said.

“We have the largest diversity of any mobile wildlife exhibitor in Queensland and being able to share stories about so many species really makes me proud.”

When asked which animal was most popular with the kids, Ben said it was always a dead heat between crocodiles and koalas.

“Both are such unique Aussie species and the chance to see both up close is a really special experience,” he said. “It’s like the extremes of cute and cuddly, or traditionally scary animals ignite the children’s curiosity.”

Tickets are $10 for children and $20 for adults (excluding booking fees). To book, go to The Sands Bowlo.

Wildlife Safari

  • Tuesday, 24 September, 10am-12pm
  • The Sands Bowlo
  • Keogh Street, Sandgate

Read more stories from the Sandgate Guide print magazine here: