Blackbutt Reserve is an undulating natural environment consisting of peaceful picnic settings with electric and wood fire barbecues, open spaces, bushwalking trails and a diverse range of habitats and ecosystems. It also features wildlife exhibits which are modern, spacious and allow close viewing of the animals - including koalas, wombats, native birds, emus and kangaroos.
The Reserve has initiated a Koala Encounter program, where the public can book an audience with this country's most loved marsupial. It involves a talk on the bears by trained reserve staff, and a chance to have your photo taken alongside one, the bear that is.
There is a great little cafe and gift shop located in the Pioneer Cottage. Here the kids can also arm themselves with nutritional feed for all the native animals. This cottage is run by local volunteers who have a wealth of knowledge and love to share it. Great Australian souvenirs can be bought here too.
For further information, click on the NCC website link located below.
Open Times:
Exhibits open 9am to 5pm. Public Koala Encounters are held at 2pm each day. Picnic and recreation facilities open from 7am to 5pm (7am to 7pm during daylight saving).
Public Holidays:
Wildlife Exhibits are closed Christmas Day, Good Friday and before 1pm on Anzac Day.
Town / Village: Lambton, Newcastle
Miles from Newcastle: 4km from CBD
Point of contact: Warden's office - (02) 4904 3344
Website: http://www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/recreation/blackbutt_reserve
