Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park grew out of the childhood dreams of Chief Ranger Michael Johnson. Inspired by the British naturalist Gerald Durrell, he imagined a place where people could experience the rare and unusual animals that once roamed the Australian bush.

Moonlit Sanctuary is that place. Opened September 2001 Size 25 acres or 10 hectares Development of the Sanctuary commenced in December 1998, and entailed:

• Construction of a modern, environmentally sensitive visitors centre.
• Planting of over 10,000 native Australian trees and plants.
• Construction of a 2 acre wetland with lake and water bird habitats.
• Construction of over 30 animal enclosures and support facilities.

Moonlit Sanctuary is located 50 minutes from central Melbourne at the top of the Mornington Peninsula, and on the way to Phillip Island.

Animals are protected by a 1.2 km by 2 m electrified predator proof fence. Over 200 animals of some 30 species make the sanctuary home. These include the Aussie icons, kangaroos and koalas, as well as many other species such as owls, dingoes, reptiles, birds, wallabies and possums.

Notable breeding successes of rare and endangered species include:

• Southern Bettongs
• Eastern Quolls
• Julia Creek Dunnarts
• Squirrell Gliders

Moonlit Sanctuary has an Education Officer, offering primary and secondary school wildlife and environmental experiences.

Members of:

• Australasian Regional Association of Zoological Parks and Aquaria
• Mornington Peninsula and Western Port Biosphere Foundation
• Eco-tourism Association of Australia
• Mornington Peninsula Tourism; Western Port LTA
• Frankston Tourism

Kiosk with light refreshments, and gift and souvenir shop. Disabled facilities and access. Catering available for groups of up to 60 people