For the perfect family getaway, only 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island offers an abundance of Australian wildlife, spectacular coastal scenery, and exciting new experiences for both adults and kids.
Penguin Parade
Of course the stand out for kids is the natural spectacle of the world’s smallest penguins arriving home at sunset each evening at the world-famous Penguin Parade. Experience the nightly parade from the beachfront viewing stands as the penguins emerge from the waves and waddle across the sand, then be sure to spend some time on the boardwalks and watch the penguins up close as they make their way along their penguin pathways to their burrows.
Take in all the action from the general viewing area on the beachfront stands and boardwalks, or upgrade to the premium Penguins Plus or Underground Viewing experiences. Accredited rangers also conduct small group guided tours each evening to further enhance your viewing experience and there is even a free Penguin Parade app (available in English, Mandarin, Korean, Japanese, German and Spanish) which includes a live penguin camera and free images to share.
Antarctic Journey
Immerse yourself in the ‘hands-on’ family fun and interactive experiences in the new Antarctic Journey, opened in conjunction with WWF-Australia. ‘Feel the freeze’ in the Antarctic Chill Zone; compare your thermal image to an Emperor penguin; visit the Research Station and Sound Lab; or check out the sustainable menu in the virtual café.
The state of the art multimedia experience puts you right in the heart of the action, surrounded by creatures of the deep like whales, sharks and more. Thanks to cutting edge ‘augmented reality’ technology, the interactive wildlife experience is bound to be a highlight of any visit, as you see yourself on a huge screen, standing on an ice floe, patting a penguin or stroking a seal.
Koala Conservation Centre
Come ‘face-to-face’ with wild koalas in their natural habitat from the treetop boardwalks at the Koala Conservation Centre. Learn about these amazing animals and the role the centre has played in protecting Phillip Island’s koalas and their habitat. Stroll along the woodland walking trails and you may come across some of the many visiting native animals including wallabies, echidna, and over 35 different species of birds.
Churchill Island Heritage Farm
Journey back in time and explore the heritage and tranquil scenery at Churchill Island Heritage Farm, an historic working farm with Clydesdale horses, Highland cattle and an animal nursery. Hands on farming activities run daily, including sheep shearing, cow milking, whip cracking and working dog demonstrations. The farm also features a restored homestead, historic cottages and delightful heritage gardens and orchards.
For more information visit www.penguins.org.au