Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary deal for Gold Coast visitors as it reopens after cyclone

A crocodile count up has been a critical part of a week-long clean up post cyclone ahead of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary reopening. FULL STORY

Wildlife conservation efforts across the Gold Coast

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary will reopen on Friday following a week-long cyclone clean-up effort.

Head of Life Sciences and Conservation Anthony Molyneux said the weather event caused significant damage with trees down across the 27ha park, but thankfully its residents were all safe.

“The safety and wellbeing of our animals is always our top priority and our team worked

tirelessly to ensure they were well-prepared for the cyclone,” he said.

“Thanks to their dedication, the wildlife in our care came through the storm unscathed and we are ready to welcome visitors back to the sanctuary.”

A full headcount has been conducted of more than 1000 animals that call the sanctuary home, with all animals accounted for — including 4.6m saltwater crocodile Boss Hog.

Crocodile Boss Hog was rumoured to have escaped his habitat during Cyclone Alfred

Boss caused a social-media stir after rumours circulated of his escape amid flooding, however the sanctuary confirmed he remained safe and happy in his enclosure for the duration of TC Alfred.

“The crocodiles love conditions like this — a cyclone is a bit like Christmas for them,” said senior veterinarian Dr Michael Pyne.

To celebrate reopening, CWS is offering up two deals: two-for-one on all entry passes and unlimited re-entry for the rest of March once you have purchased a ticket.

“Beyond treating wildlife impacted by the cyclone at our wildlife hospital, we wanted to give

back to our community who have been impacted just like us,” Mr Molyneux said.

“This is a small way we can help people get back out and about in nature, and the best way people can support our recovery is simple — come and visit.”

Just up the road at West Burleigh, operation catch the Frisby was in full effect during the wildest of weather.

Rangers and wildlife officers from Queensland National Parks were given the unenviable task of securing estuarine crocodiles Frisby and Madonna at David Fleay Wildlife Park and moving them from their enclosures at risk of flooding from Tallebudgera Creek.

Crocodiles Frisby and Madonna were safe and secure before Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred hit after efforts from national park rangers and officers

Originally published as Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary deal for Gold Coast visitors as it reopens after cyclone