Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary

Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Coffs Harbour, NSW, is one of the only dedicated seal rescue and rehabilitation centers in the state. While its current form was established in 2023, the sanctuary’s legacy dates back to 1970, when it first opened as the Pet Porpoise Pool, a marine rescue facility, but also focused on dolphin and seal shows. After it had to close down (in the meantime known as the Dolphin Marine Conservation Park), it evolved into today’s sanctuary with a renewed focus on seal care, education, and conservation.

The sanctuary’s expert team responds to seal rescues along a vast stretch of coastline – from Tweed to Nelson Bay – providing expert care for injured, sick, or orphaned marine animals. Additionally to seals, the sanctuary also rescues and rehabilitates sea turtles and seabirds. Visitors can learn about conservation work and the threats facing Australia’s marine ecosystems.

As a not-for-profit charity, the sanctuary is building a state-of-the-art education and training hospital to mentor future wildlife conservationists. Through this facility, students, volunteers, and emerging animal care professionals will gain real-world experience in rescue, rehabilitation, and release, ensuring the future of wildlife conservation in Australia.