Why we call animal encounters “Speed Dates”
We call our animal encounters Speed Dates because they are chaperoned by a wise and experienced ranger who knows the rules of engagement, time is limited to 10 minutes, contact is controlled, conversation is polite and respectful, and you and the animal are each free to leave any time you choose.
On your “Speed Date” you can get up close and personal with your favourite animal, but on the animal’s terms. Speed Dates are NOT about cuddling animals. They are about getting to know these magnificent animals in a way that is just as interesting and enjoyable for the animal as it is for you.
Private vs Public Sessions
Speed dates are usually “public sessions” which means anyone can purchase tickets for the same time slot, so you may be with people you don’t know. Public sessions are limited to 4 participants.
You can make any session a “private session” by purchasing all the tickets for that session.
Maximum Guest Numbers
Public sessions are limited to 4 people per session as we need to be careful that everyone gets on with each other and with the animals. The other people may not be people you know.
You may have more than 4 people if you purchase all 4 tickets to make it a private session for just you and your friends. If you want more than 4 people in your private session, email us and we can add extra guests to your session for you.
Minimum Guest Numbers
Speed Date tickets may be purchased for just one person as long as they are aged 12 or over. The other tickets may be purchased by other members of the public who would then attend with you.
Everyone entering the enclosure or the “space” where the encounter is held must purchase a ticket for the encounter (including an adult accompanying a child under 12, or a person wanting to “just take photos”).
Times & Availability
Pre-booking is usually required.
However, if you haven’t pre-booked, ask us. Depending on our workload on the day, there may be a ranger available.
- Meerkat and Serval times are usually at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm.
- Dingoes are usually once a day at 2:45 pm.
- Tasmanian Devils are usually once a day at 10:30am.
- Wombats are usually once a day at 3:15pm.
- Other Animal Speed Dates are usually at 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 1:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm.
Putting our animals first
These times and availability may change, as making sure our animals are happy and not stressed is always our number one priority.
Please note that, even if you have pre-booked, if your animal doesn’t want to spend time with you today, you will be offered another encounter or a refund.
This almost never happens, but it can. We always put our animals’ happiness first.