Creatures of Blackbutt Reserve welcome back visitors 

Blackbutt Reserve’s animal exhibit boardwalk will reopen to the public today.

Animal encounters, wildlife exhibits and shows remain on hold under the current social distancing and public gathering restrictions, while the kiosk also remains closed.

“Blackbutt Reserve is one of our City’s most popular attractions and we’re pleased people can once again enjoy the boardwalk and see some of the 60 species of animals that live there,” Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.

“Safety is our priority and when you visit Blackbutt Reserve, you can expect social distancing measures in place to protect visitors and our staff.

“Novocastrians have done a fantastic job of limiting the spread of COVID-19, and as we reopen facilities to the public, we encourage everyone to keep up the good work including practising good hygiene and staying home if you’re unwell.”

During the Reserve’s closure, Blackbutt’s koalas became social media stars with a 360-degree live stream of feeding time, allowing young and old to join them daily for lunch.

“Over seven days, the stream of feeding time with koalas attracted 30,000 views on Facebook proving just how popular and loved our animals are.”

Adding to the experience at Blackbutt Reserve, playgrounds, walking trails, open spaces, shelters and barbecues are open.