It is a beautifully landscaped park that features a
variety of animals and plants, all of which are native
to Australia. The four-acre park provides a taste of
Australia's wildlife - right in Israel's Beit Shean
Valley.
Gan Garoo has over seven types of kangaroos (a total
of 45) and an assortment of cockatoo, flying foxes,
laughing kookaburra, cassowary, wallaby, and emu to name
a few. Over 38 types of eucalyptus trees and other
plants grace the grounds.
The park was established with the help of a
successive number of Australian ambassadors. Operated by
Kibbutz Nir David (see related story Stockade and Tower)
this park is adjacent to Gan Hashlosha (the Sahne) and
it is a joy to both children and adults alike.
Kibbutz member Yehuda Gat started the project that is
fully recognized by the Australian Wildlife Protection
Authority. It took six years to get approval for this
unique park. In addition to the assortment of Australian
flora and fauna there is a large maze on the premises
that provides added enjoyment for visitors.
Plans are underway to establish an Australian
Educational Center here as well - but money has to be
raised first. At the moment the park owns 5,000 books -
all of which are sitting in storage until a benefactor
is found.
Directions: Gan Garoo Park Australia-Israel is
located at Kibbutz Nir David, off Route # 669 (just
outside of the main entrance to Gan Hashlosha, near the
gas station).
04/648-8060 06/648-6060 FAX
Visiting Hours: Sunday - Thursday 9:00 AM- 4:00 PM,
Friday 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM.
Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00
PM.
Entry fees: 39 NIS/pp, (ages three and up).
* Note - On a return visit the park (in late summer) it didn't look quite as lush as did it in winter. Keep in mind that in this area of the country things will look quite different from season to season. However, if you are traveling with children the lack of green surroundings will no doubt not detract from the main attraction - kangaroos!
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