Yarra River Valley

8/13/11
We ventured out of the city to the Healsville Sanctuary in the Yarra River Valley. The sanctuary is part of the Melbourne Zoo system although it is well outside the city limits. It houses only native flora and fauna in a "bush-like" setting. On the way out we saw many farms and vineyards. Deer are not a native species but are raised in small numbers for venison. Lots of sheep peppered fields and cattle grazing. The landscape is quite unique. If you can imagine a mix of southern Spain and Texas river country with lots of gum (ecualyptus) trees. You really have to see it. Here are some iconic Aussie animals we saw at the sanctuary. Yes, they had 'roos but they really weren't doing much.

Koalas are adorable but my favorite is the wombat!












Well-trained dingos allowed kids to pet them. They were much more interested in the rewards they were getting for tolerating the petting though.










The zoos have a "Wipe for Wildlife" campaign to inspire people to buy toilet paper made from recycled paper. The message was everywhere but clearly stated here. Aussies have a way with the PSA.