Outback Springs at CWS

Visitors to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary will now have a taste of the Australian outback with the opening of the new multi million dollar precinct Outback Springs.

The new experience set within the Kangaroo Country precinct of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, features a recreation of a traditional outback Queensland farming station highlighted by up close animal encounters and authentic outback experiences such as billy tea demonstrations and gemstone panning.

“The opening of this precinct is the first stage of the most significant precinct investment to the Sanctuary in its 75 year history. Outback Springs is a rustic outback experience for all ages to enjoy,” said Travis Couch, General Manager of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.

“This coming year we will welcome over half a million guests to the Sanctuary from all over the world and we want them to be able to experience life in the Queensland outback without having to leave the Gold Coast,” said Mr Couch.

“We have new habitats of outback species such as the death adder and native spiders as well as some cute new arrivals like chickens and miniature goats,” said Mr Couch.

“Those visiting Outback Springs will feel like they’ve been transported to an outback station with a working windmill, chickens wandering free range, tractors, a fire pit and a bush tucker garden,” he said.

Conceptualised in partnership with leading attraction design firm Pico Play, the multi-million dollar precinct has been jointly funded by the National Trust of Australia (Queensland), the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund and the Queensland State Government’s Tourism Experience Development Fund.

Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the award-winning Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary continues to amaze visitors.

“The new Outback Springs experience at the iconic Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is the next evolution of a much-loved Gold Coast tourism pioneer,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“Backed by the Palaszczuk Government’s Tourism Experience Development Fund, Outback Springs supported 20 jobs during construction and creates another three ongoing local job opportunities.

“The Outback Springs visitor experience is predicted to attract an extra 25,000 visitors a year, and opens hot on the heels of the Sanctuary’s induction to the Queensland Tourism Awards’ Hall of Fame.

“Established in 1946, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary’s terrific track record for tourism innovation guarantees this world-class visitor experience will continue to entertain families for generations to come.”

Mr Couch said Outback Springs will also be expanded in coming months.

“Stage two will see the opening of The Homestead in mid-next year, a contemporary interpretation of the traditional Australian ‘Queenslander’ architectural style commonly found on outback stations, farms and rural estates. This state of the art dining and event space invites visitors to experience flavours of the Australian outback in a modern environment.”

“We’re excited to open this new precinct just in time for the busy holiday season as we prepare to welcome thousands of new visitors to the Sanctuary.”

“This has been a long time coming and we’re thrilled to welcome members and guests of all ages to enjoy this unique experience.”

About National Trust Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest property under the banner of National Trust of Australia (Queensland). It was gifted to National Trust in 1976 by founder and conservationist Alex Griffiths. National Trust is a not-for-profit organisation, which relies on donations to protect, conserve, and celebrate our environmental, built, and cultural heritage. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is home to Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, which offers a free community service to treat, rehabilitate and release sick, injured and orphaned wildlife.

Quick facts:

• Bee and flower keeper Alex Griffiths opened Currumbin Bird Sanctuary in 1947 as a lorikeet feeding display, protecting his prized blooms from the birds. Today, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary still offers lorikeet feeding twice daily, an experience that is open to all members of the public.
• Currumbin Bird Sanctuary was gifted to the National Trust of Australia (Queensland) in 1976.
• Currumbin Bird Sanctuary was officially renamed Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary in 1995.
• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary participates in 15 conservation programs for threatened and endangered species.
• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is home to Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, which last year admitted more than 14,000 wildlife animals, including almost 400 Koalas.

Media Contact

Amna Yang

0406 156 767