Cohunu Koala Park

Cohunu Koala Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in Byford, Western Australia, encompassing 14 hectares (35 acres) of natural bushland. Established in 1972 by Lucille and Nardino Sorbello as Cohunu Wildlife Sanctuary, it was initially situated near Gosnells before relocating to its present Byford site in 2009. The park officially became known as Cohunu Koala Park in September 1991.

Animals and Exhibits

The park is renowned for its significant koala colony, which now comprises over 25 koalas, representing both the northern and southern subspecies. Beyond its koala population, Cohunu Koala Park houses a variety of other native and introduced Australian animals. These include wombats, kangaroos, wallabies, quokkas, echidnas, dingoes, as well as domestic animals like pigs, donkeys, ponies, llamas, and alpacas. Visitors can also observe deers, ostriches, emus, various bird species such as owls and cockatoos, water birds, freshwater crocodiles, and bobtail lizards. Adding a unique touch to the visitor experience, lifelike replicas of dinosaurs are also displayed throughout the park.

Visitor Experience

Cohunu Koala Park offers interactive experiences for its visitors. Between 10 am and 4 pm daily, guests have the opportunity to be photographed while cuddling a koala, for an additional fee. Visitors are also encouraged to touch and hand feed many of the other animals residing in the park. Adding to the park's attractions is a miniature railway, constructed by volunteers, which operates on most weekends and public holidays, providing a scenic way to explore the grounds.

Historical Incidents

In the early hours of October 24, 2021, the park experienced a break-in. During the incident, two individuals abducted a pregnant guinea pig, which was subsequently drowned in the freshwater crocodile pond. The intruders also stole items from the park's utility sheds.