Ocean Park Hong Kong launches Australian Outback-themed attraction

Hong Kong theme park Ocean Park has opened Adventures in Australia, an all new animal exhibit based on the South Australian Outback.

Launched as an “immersive walk-through experience” displaying southern koalas, red-necked wallabies and kookaburras, the exhibit also features interactive panels, games and a ‘film corridor’ depicting images of the South Australian Outback.

Presenting an Australian themed setting, the exhibit is climate-controlled to match the seasons in South Australia, and illuminated using both natural and LED lights to simulate the hours of the day. It has been designed using recycled timber and other environmentally-friendly materials.

Sponsored by the Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ), the attraction aims to encourage  visitors to learn about the natural heritage of South Australia, as well as gaining an insight into the sustainable lifestyle of Aboriginal communities.

Animals in the exhibit have been gifted by the Government of South Australia to the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

Commenting on the significance of being entrusted with the Australian native animals, John Tsang, Financial Secretary of Hong Kong stated “the opening of Adventures in Australia marks an important milestone in the relationship between Hong Kong and South Australia.

“Much more than attractions, the new exhibit will help spread critical messages of conservation and sustainability.

“No less important, these messages symbolise the close bonds that Hong Kong and South Australia have long enjoyed, and will continue to enjoy.”

Ocean Park Chairman Leo Kung added “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.” 

Ocean Park has also won three China Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (CAAPA) awards at the inaugural Ferris Awards Presentation Ceremony.

Ocean Park received the awards for ‘Most Popular Theme Park’ and ‘Best Innovative Event’ for its signature annual event, Halloween Fest while Ocean Park Deputy Chief Executive Matthias Li received the ‘Leader of the Chinese Theme Park Industry’.

Commenting on the receipt of the awards, Li stated “our ground-breaking seasonal events, dedication to conservation and culturally relevant positioning are always our keys to success.

“While providing exceptional theme park services, we stay true to our conservation, education, and entertainment pillars in connecting our guests to nature.

“We are grateful for all tourists’ support and will continue our hard work to provide memorable experiences that combine entertainment with education.”

Aiming to promote the theme park industry in China, CAAPA was founded in 1987 and has over 300 corporate members.

The Ferris Awards have been created to recognise and celebrate outstanding performance and contribution in the previous year. 

22nd February 2015 - OCEAN PARK PREPARES FOR ARRIVAL OF SOUTH AUSTRALIAN KOALAS

30th April 2012 - KOALAS TO BE LISTED AS THREATENED AMID RAPID DECLINE