Chlamydia, traffic accidents and dog attacks are the biggest causes of illness and injury for koalas living near urban areas; about 250 end up in this shelter each year. You can walk around the open-air enclosures any time of the day, but you’ll learn more on a free 40-minute tour and have the chance to see them being fed (3pm).

Signs detail the stories of some of the longer-term patients. Check the website for volunteer opportunities.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Roto House

0.02 MILES

This beautifully preserved late-Victorian weatherboard villa was built by surveyor John Flynn in 1891 and was occupied by his family right up until 1979…

2. Flynn's Beach

0.4 MILES

A patrolled beach nestled between two rocky headlands. Excellent for learner surfers.

3. Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park

0.82 MILES

Encompassing 50 hectares of bush and wetland, this park is home to over 160 bird species. A series of walking trails and wheelchair-accessible boardwalks…

4. Maritime Museum

0.83 MILES

The old pilot station (1882) above Town Beach has been converted into a small maritime museum, which is full of character. Allow a good hour to pore over…

5. Observatory

0.83 MILES

Sneak a peek through the telescope at the astronomical observatory on one of its public viewing and presentation nights.

6. Port Macquarie Historic Cemetery

0.86 MILES

The Port Macquarie Historic Cemetery, bizarrely built above what was the early settlement's main water supply, is in the Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park.

7. Town Beach

0.9 MILES

Close to the town centre, this lovely beach is particularly good for surfing, and is patrolled in summer.

8. St Thomas' Anglican Church

0.93 MILES

This 1824 convict-built church is one of Australia’s oldest functioning churches. It retains its original box pews and crenulated tower, which apes the…