Cleland Wildlife Park, a cherished sanctuary for native fauna enthusiasts and curious visitors alike, recently embarked on an exciting endeavour constructing a cutting-edge koala enclosure.
With an investment of $2.57 million, Cleland Wildlife Park is set to unveil its state-of-the-art temperature-controlled koala loft. Supported by BMD Constructions, the project marks a significant step in the park’s journey towards becoming a reputable space of wildlife conservation.
The visionary design of the koala loft aims to integrate education with entertainment, offering visitors a captivating window into the world of the beloved creatures. Gone are the days of traversing across multiple enclosures; now, guests can enjoy year-round interaction with koalas in a single, centralised location. This not only enhances the visitor experience but also minimises stress for the animals by eliminating the need for transportation between habitats.
“Cleland Wildlife Park is one of the most visited locations in South Australia and the koala encounter experience is a large reason for its popularity,” Minister for Climate, Environment and Water Susan Close said.
“The welfare of our beloved species is a priority, and this new facility will ensure the koalas are housed in the best conditions possible every day of the year.
“This is a much-needed upgrade and will provide a consistent climate and comfortable environment to Cleland’s koalas and the people visiting them.”
As the construction progresses towards its anticipated completion in late 2024, with temporary adjustments to be in place to accommodate the development, visitors can still delight in close encounters and observational opportunities with the resident koalas. Guided by experienced keepers, daily educational talks will offer insights into koala habitat, conservation efforts, and the significance of preserving Australia’s rich biodiversity.
Established in 1967, Cleland Wildlife Park has been a cherished haven for wildlife enthusiasts for over half a century, drawing admirers from near and far to marvel at the wonders of the natural world. Throughout its storied history, koalas have remained steadfast inhabitants of the park, captivating the hearts of generations with their endearing charm and iconic presence.
As the new koala enclosure takes shape, it symbolizes more than just architectural innovation; it embodies a collective vision of harmony between humans and nature. By fostering meaningful connections and imparting valuable knowledge, Cleland Wildlife Park continues to pave the way for a future where conservation is not just a responsibility but a shared passion.
“Cleland plays an important role in creating a sustainable environment where everyone can connect with nature and wildlife,” Cleland Wildlife Park General Manager Michelle Hocking said.
“The world-class upgrade will provide us an opportunity to showcase the conservation efforts being undertaken at Cleland while allowing visitors to observe the koalas up close.
“The new loft will allow us to continue providing an immersive nature experience where visitors can engage with our iconic koalas and learn about the importance of conservation.”
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