1 / 3Dingo Discovery Sanctuary, Research and Education Centre
📍 Toolern Vale, VIC
Hands-on dingo sanctuary running guided conservation experiences with cubs, adult dingoes, and direct interaction with researchers. Bookings essential. Suits ages 8+ who can engage with animal behaviour and ecology.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with children aged 8 and up who are genuinely curious about wildlife. Cubs are interactive and the educational content is detailed enough to hold older kids' attention. Adults consistently rate this among the most meaningful wildlife experiences in Victoria. Not suitable for very young children who need high-energy entertainment.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →157 Google reviews
G Reviews from Google
MaryJane
7 months ago
“Absolutely sensational! Thank you to Lyn and the two volunteers I met. The dingoes are absolutely beautiful and Lyn was very thorough. Thank you to the team who were so supportive when I had some pain come on from an injury to the neck. Very grateful as the cubs sensed it and just decided to come to my left hand. Not to mention how lovely and supportive the volunteers were during the flare. This is great for children too! ❤️💓 Here are some phohtos of the sweet cubs”
Thushara Jay
7 years ago
“Very memorable experience in Dingo Sanctuary. The information given initially was amazing and learned so much about the breed. The puppies were so cute and the kids loved them. Sanctuary provides treats so you can give them to the puppies. That was such an experience to the children. If you love animals you will definitely love this place. We’ll worth the drive. This place is like a hidden gem in Melbourne.”
Joanna Young
7 months ago
“We absolutely loved feeding and cuddling the cubs, and learned a lot about the biology and history of dingoes. Kevin was an engaging and knowledgeable host. We also got to meet the famous Wandi dingo! Great value experience, and all the money goes back into the sanctuary, research and education.”
💬 What parents mention
Overview
Dingo Discovery Sanctuary rescues, breeds, and researches Australian dingoes at its Toolern Vale property. Guided sessions cover dingo biology, history, and conservation — visitors feed and interact with cubs directly. Host Kevin and founder Lyn lead sessions personally. The sanctuary's famous resident Wandi is often present. All proceeds fund research and education. Pre-booking is mandatory; walk-ins are not accepted.
