Ipswich Nature Centre

For those not from Ipswich, the fabulous Ipswich Nature Centre is perhaps the city's best kept secret, located on the edge of its landmark park and free* to wander through.

A series of paths and well-maintained boardwalks meander through enclosures and nocturnal houses that house more than 40 species of Australian native animals as well as a walk-through aviary, reptile house and a baby animal barn.

Overseas visitors and locals alike can get an intimate view of dingoes, wombats, kangaroos, wallabies (including the endangered brush tail wallaby, Ipswich water birds, black cockatoos, bilbies and spotted-tail quolls and, at the barn, get up close to piglets, calves, lambs, kids and guinea pigs).

*Although entrance is free, a gold coin donation is appreciated.