Ocean Park has opened Adventures in Australia, a brand new exhibit and the first of its kind in Hong Kong. In a setting inspired by the South Australia outback, visitors encounter animals unique to Southern Australia including red-necked wallabies, laughing kookaburras and southern koalas.
The new immersive attraction is sponsored by the Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ) and inspires guests to contribute to the sustainable future of the planet by practising LOHAS (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability).
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Visitors learn about the natural heritage of South Australia, from the interior “outback” to the coastal metropolis of Adelaide, as well as gaining an insight into the sustainable lifestyle of Aboriginal communities. They are presented with stunning images of South Australia along a “film corridor” before emerging into a recreated eucalyptus forest for a visual and full sensory encounter with the animals.
The exhibit is climate-controlled to echo the temperature and humidity during the different seasons in South Australia and lit to simulate natural light levels. Staying true to its LOHAS message, the attraction features extensive use of recycled timber and a wide range of environmentally-friendly materials, equipment and designs.
Mr. Leo Kung, Chairman of Ocean Park, said it was an honour to be entrusted by the Government of South Australia to care for the animals gifted to Hong Kong.
“The opening of Adventures in Australia has further extended the ecological systems represented in Ocean Park and expanded our conservation education platform. Benefiting from the meticulous guidance provided by the South Australian government and Cleland Wildlife Park, we are thrilled to offer a realistic taste of South Australia to the public and a comfortable home to the iconic animals, which are all thriving under our care, ” commented Kung.
The message of LOHAS is reinforced via interactive panels and games. Visitors also learn about the threat to the koalas’ natural habitat and how everyone can help by making the right choices. There is an opportunity to support conservation by donating to the Ocean Park Conservation Foundation, Hong Kong (OPCFHK) by cash or Octopus Card inside the exhibit.
The Honourable John Tsang Chun-wah, GBM, JP, Financial Secretary, HKSAR: “Thanks to South Australia, Adventures in Australia will surely draw enthusiastic visitors to Ocean Park from all over the world. Much more than attractions, however, the new exhibit will help spread critical messages of conservation and sustainability.”
