The Horticulture Department at Healesville Sanctuary is dedicated to restoring and maintaining the Sanctuary’s bushland environment, and providing the eucalypt food supply for our koalas and other animals.

Indigenous plants (native to the local area) are used throughout the Sanctuary grounds to restore and enhance existing vegetation, as well as capture the habitats of the various animal species on display. In excess of 10,000 plants are planted annually, ranging from small grasses to the majestic Manna Gums (Eucalyptus viminalis).

As well as managing the exhibit areas of the Sanctuary, the Horticulture staff are responsible for maintaining the off-display areas of the park, including the Coranderrk bushland. The Coranderrk sits behind the Sanctuary and consists of 142 hectares of native plant species. It is one of the few areas of lowland Yarra Valley vegetation left of its type.
 
Horticulture volunteers

The Horticulture department has a dedicated group of Friends of the Zoos volunteers who help twice a month with activities including weeding, mulching, planting and nursery work.