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The Petting Zoo at Marnong Estate

Coming Soon

The Petting Zoo at Marnong Estate is an annual family event held on the Main Lawn, set against sweeping Macedon Ranges views.

A Family Event at a Destination Estate

Designed as a relaxed day within a regional estate setting, the event combines hands-on animal encounters with live music, estate dining and open lawn space — creating a full day out rather than a single activity.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early, explore the estate grounds and enjoy the broader hospitality offering before and after their allocated Petting Zoo session.

Live music on the Main Lawn runs from 11:00am to 4:00pm, creating a relaxed estate atmosphere throughout the afternoon. Guests are welcome to bring a picnic rug and make use of the expansive lawn space surrounding the event area.

A bull in Petting Zoo
Little girl sitting on a pony

The Petting Zoo Experience

The dedicated Petting Zoo area allows children and families to safely interact with a range of friendly farm animals under the supervision of experienced Pet Attendants.

On the day, guests can:

  • Pat bunnies
  • Walk through our bird aviary
  • Feed goats and chickens
  • Get close to sheep
  • Reptile encounter
  • View camels, alpacas, ostriches and cows
  • See Marnong Estate’s much-loved highland cows

*Our Pet Attendants are onsite throughout the event to guide interactions and ensure animal wellbeing and guest safety.

Event Details

Date: Coming Soon
Location: Petting Zoo & Main Lawn, Marnong Estate
Check-in Opens: 10:00am via the woolshed

*Entry to the Petting Zoo is managed via timed sessions to ensure a comfortable and safe experience for both guests and animals.

Guests must select one of the following sessions at time of booking:

Session 1: 11:00am – 12:30pm
Session 2: 11:45am – 1:15pm
Session 3: 12:30pm – 2:00pm

*Entry is permitted only during your allocated session time. Guests will be asked to exit the Petting Zoo area once their session concludes. You are welcome to remain on the estate grounds outside your allocated session time.

Lama in Petting Zoo
A boy on the lawn with a tiny goat

Ticket Information

Adults (12+ years): $20 (includes $10 food voucher, redeemable at outdoor food and beverage stations or Vista on the day of the event)
Children (3–11 years): $5
Children under 2 years: Free (no ticket required, must be accompanied by a ticketed adult)

To ensure fair access and prevent bulk purchasing tickets will be a max 15 tickets per transaction:

  • All children must be accompanied by a ticketed parent or guardian at all times
  • All tickets must be booked online in advance
  • No gate sales or entry without a valid ticket

Camel & Pony Rides

Camel and pony rides are available separately on the day and are not included in general admission.

Camel rides: $10 per person
Pony rides: $5 per person

*Payments via EFTPOS at the gate. Riders must meet safety and suitability requirements

Supporting Animal Welfare
Each ticket includes a contribution toward the ongoing care and wellbeing of the animals at Marnong Estate.
Animal feed will also be available for purchase via gold coin donation (cash or card accepted).
All funds raised will support Second Chance Animal Rescue.

Street food and a bottle of wine on a picnic blanket with two people

Estate Dining & Hospitality

On event day, guests have access to wider Marnong Estate experience:

  • Vista Italian Street Kitchen**
  • Marnong Estate Cellar Door
  • Dining at La Vètta (smart casual dress code – bookings recommended)
  • Casual dining at Cucina 3064
  • The Farm Shop

*Please note: Marnong Estate is a fully licensed venue. Outside food and beverages are not permitted.
**Each adult ticket includes a $10 food voucher, redeemable at outdoor food and beverage stations or Vista on the day of the event (must be used in a single transaction).

Plan Your Visit

To ensure a smooth experience:

  • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your session
  • Bring a picnic blanket for lawn seating
  • Dress appropriately for weather conditions
  • No outside food, beverages, pets or ball games permitted
  • Marnong Estate is a fully licensed venue
Petting Zoo cow on a hill

Capacity & Booking

The Petting Zoo at Marnong Estate reaches capacity each year.

We recommend booking early to secure your preferred session time.

Booking Acknowledgement & Waiver

By completing your booking for the Petting Zoo experience, you acknowledge and agree to the Waiver and Release of Liability. This includes understanding the nature of close contact with animals and accepting the associated risks. All minors must be supervised by a responsible adult at all times.

This acknowledgement is required for participation.

Refund Policy

Refunds are available up to 7 days prior to the event date. Refund requests made within 7 days of the event are not eligible for a refund.
Tickets are not transferable to another event, date, or workshop.
If you are unable to attend, you are welcome to transfer your ticket to a friend or family member to attend in your place.