Present State of the Shoalhaven Zoo

The Shoalhaven Zoo is situated just 2.5 hours from Sydney, running along the sparkling, pristine Shoalhaven River. Formally known as The Nowra Riverside Animal Park, the Zoo is the largest native animal park on the South Coast, being home to over 100 species of native mammals, birds and reptiles.

After spending the day exploring the 16 acres of bushland, you can relax in the café and have a nice cold drink, or sit with your family in the barbeque area, making lunch amongst peacocks.  Whatever you choose, you will be delighted with the abundance of creatures and wildlife surrounding you.

For the past 40 years, the park has been one of the most enjoyable places for locals and tourists to visit in the Shoalhaven. The park is owned by Nicholas and Corrine Schilko, who work alongside the mixture of paid and volunteer keepers to make the experience enjoyable for anyone visiting the zoo.

The animals aren’t the only attraction at the zoo, with items such as the enormous slippery dip, bushwalks and the scenic view bringing in visitors from near and afar. On your way out of the park, you can also commemorate your trip by purchasing something special from the gift shop located next to the café.

 Since its founding in 1971, the park has rapidly expanded, introducing many exotic species; a far cry from the typical Australian wombats and kangaroos. In the past few years alone, Nick has added Leopard Tortoises, Perenties, Black Capped Capuchin Monkeys and rare Albino Echidnas to his collection of wildlife around the zoo.

During the week, the zoo has the opportunity for disabled members of the public to contribute to the park, helping them with personal goals and achievements they may have. The zoo also has a work experience programs, where students over 15 can come and work for a week, developing skills and their relationships with animals and people. If you are over 15, you can also opt to volunteer for one day every week. As a volunteer, you will get all the opportunities paid staff do and more. You can contribute to the park and leave your fingerprint on its future, accessing skills and experiences every step of the way.

Every day is filled with family fun down at the zoo, with several shows each day and a total of six shows on Saturday and Sunday. Starting with a Koala show at 11am, ending with a Dingo show at 3pm, your day will be informative and exciting; something you will carry with you for a long time.

Even if you are travelling and just passing through, you can stay the night at the camping ground adjacent to the park, for a small fee. You are set right along the banks of the Shoalhaven River and are provided with electricity and toilets – everything you could need for a relaxing weekend away. The Shoalhaven River is the perfect backdrop for any important occasion; especially a wedding. You can also have your wedding at the zoo, saying your vows next to a cassowary and wedge tail eagle.

The Shoalhaven Zoo is a piece of paradise and one of the most important assets in the Shoalhaven. It is a place where, for 41 years now, families have been able to spend countless occasions together.