Photo of Dingo Discovery Sanctuary, Research and Education Centre in Victoria
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Dingo Discovery Sanctuary, Research and Education Centre

📍 Toolern Vale, VIC

4.9(152 Google reviews)

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.

Hands-on cub interactionExpert knowledgeable guidesConservation focusedMemorable experience
★★★★★Featured review by MaryJane

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

🏆 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

💡Book online in advance — sessions fill quickly and walk-ins are not accepted
Wear closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothes you don't mind getting dirty
🎟️Cubs respond to calm, quiet behaviour — brief children before arrival
🚗All funds go directly to dingo research and breeding programs

💬 What Families Are Saying

View all reviews →
4.9

152 Google reviews

Exceptional guides and hosts45%
Cub interaction is the highlight30%
Deep conservation education15%
Welcoming and supportive staff10%
M

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

T

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.

J

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.

D

Danielle Leong

2 years ago

Thank you for being so passionate and creating the opportunity to learn more about the Dingos! Had a great time and gained so much knowledge on them in such a short time. Love the cubs and definitely left a great impression of dingos in our heart. All the best!!

Reviews from Google

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.

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