Into the wild

Want to get even closer to nature? Big fish are just part of Australia’s animal attraction. These five destinations also offer too-goodto-be-true wildlife encounters.

Take a selfie with quokkas on Rottnest Island, WA

Really. The quokkas won’t mind. These furry marsupials native to Rottnest Island have an affinity for tourists and posing for photos. They’re everywhere on the island and as big a draw as Rottnest’s sparkling bays and car-free roads.

Observe roos on Kangaroo Island, SA

Yes, Kangaroo Island is home to many a kangaroo, including the island’s own species. What the name doesn’t tell you, however, is that an array of other native animals also call KI home – chief among them koalas, sea lions and wallabies.

Learn about Tasmanian devils at Cradle Mountain, Tas

Located at Tassie’s spectacular Cradle Mountain, Devils@ Cradle (devilsatcradle.com) is committed to protecting the island’s famed carnivorous marsupials. Book an intimate zookeeper tour and get close to these underthreat creatures.

Join the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island, Vic

One of the few places in the world where visitors can observe penguins au natural, Phillip Island is a wildlife haven. The little guys come on stage at sunset year-round, while shearwaters and Pacific gulls offer additional birdwatching opportunities.

Meet the rock wallabies on Magnetic Island, Qld

Dotted with secret beaches, bushwalks and pockets of wildlife, Magnetic Island is a naturelover’s paradise. Among its many attractions is the opportunity to feed the island’s colony of rock wallabies.