The park is the sole supplier of funnel-web spider venom for the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories in Melbourne.
Founder Eric Worrell established the park specifically to develop an antivenom for the deadly Sydney funnel-web spider.
The resident saltwater crocodile, Elvis, is famous for his aggression and has stolen multiple lawnmowers from his enclosure.
The park operates a unique 'Platypus Conservation Centre' to study and help preserve the species.
Keepers conduct venom milking sessions that are open for public viewing to demonstrate antivenom production.
It is one of the few places in Australia where guests can feed free-roaming kangaroos in a controlled environment.
The park has been actively involved in breeding programs for endangered species like the Tasmanian devil.
The facility was originally opened in 1948 at a different location before moving to its current Somersby site in the 1990s.
The Australian Reptile Park is a hands-on wildlife sanctuary located in Somersby, New South Wales, primarily known for its extensive venom milking program. The park plays a critical role in Australian public health by supplying the venom required to produce life-saving antivenom for funnel-web spiders and various snake species. Visitors can observe live venom milking demonstrations conducted by trained keepers. The facility houses a diverse collection of native Australian animals, including koalas, kangaroos, dingoes, and massive saltwater crocodiles. It is an interactive zoo designed for close animal encounters and educational wildlife shows. The park grounds provide a mix of bushland walking paths and dedicated animal enclosures.
The elevated boardwalk area near the kangaroo free-range enclosure for natural, unobstructed shots.
Attend the scheduled venom milking demonstration early in your visit as it is the park's primary claim to fame.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes to navigate the gravel and dirt paths throughout the park.
Bring a refillable water bottle, as the park is spread out with multiple outdoor walking trails.
Do not skip the scheduled keeper talks, as they provide context to the venom program that is not available through signage alone.
Open daily, including public holidays; closed only on Christmas Day.
Do not feed the animals human food; follow all keeper instructions during animal encounter zones; stay behind safety barriers.
