Turtles

Get set to spot some of Australia’s freshwater turtles at Dreamworld. These shelled cuties may not be fast, but they’re full of character as they paddle around the Wetlands. Stop by and enjoy their “turtley” unique style.

Meet our freshwater friends

Brisbane river turtleCorroboree & Australian Wildlife

Brisbane river turtle

Emydura macquarii signata

Animal group: Reptile

Habitat: Wetlands

Conservation status: Vulnerable

The Brisbane river turtle is a gentle swimmer, native to Queensland’s rivers and known for its peaceful nature.

Corroboree & Australian Wildlife

Snapping turtle

Elseya dentata

Animal group: Reptile

Habitat: Wetlands

Conservation status: Least concern

With its powerful jaws and bold personality, the Snapping Turtle makes a lively resident of Australia’s waters.

Mary river turtleCorroboree & Australian Wildlife

Mary river turtle

Elusor Macrurus

Animal group: Reptile

Habitat: Wetlands

Conservation status: Endangered

The mary river turtle is a unique Queensland native, known for its green algae “hair” and calm nature.

Turtle life down under

Australia is home to 28 freshwater turtle species, found across every state and territory. At Dreamworld, you’ll spot species like the Brisbane River turtle, snapping turtle, and Mary River turtle.

These aquatic explorers thrive in rivers, creeks, and lakes, where they munch on a mix of insects and plants. Female turtles bury their eggs on land, leaving their hatchlings to make their own way to water when they’re ready.

Education & encounters

Take an inside look at the lives of tigers through our up-close encounters and fascinating presentations. Dreamworld brings you face-to-face with these remarkable cats, sharing unique insights into their lives and the efforts to protect them.

See more animals

Eastern grey kangarooCorroboree & Australian Wildlife

Eastern grey kangaroo

Macropus giganteus

Animal group: Mammal

Habitat: Woodlands

Conservation status: Least concern

With their powerful leaps and calm gaze, eastern grey kangaroos are true icons of Australian wildlife. Spot them grazing, lounging, or bounding across the Woodlands, bringing the Aussie bush to life.

Red kangarooCorroboree & Australian Wildlife

Red kangaroo

Osphranter rufus

Animal group: Mammal

Habitat: Arid

Conservation status: Least concern

Australia’s largest and most powerful marsupial, the red kangaroo thrives across the arid landscapes. With strength and adaptability, they’re built to endure even the harshest climates.

Corroboree & Australian Wildlife

Koala

Phascolarctos cinereus

Animal group: Mammal

Habitat: Woodlands

Conservation status: Vulnerable

With their fluffy ears and gentle gaze, koalas are instant heart-catchers. Tucked high among the gum trees, they enjoy their days munching on eucalyptus leaves and snoozing in the sunshine.

Freshwater crocodile

Freshwater crocodile

Crocodylus johnstoni

Animal group: Reptile

Habitat: Wetlands

Conservation status: Least concern

With their slender snouts and agile builds, freshwater crocodiles are perfectly adapted for life in Australia’s rivers and waterways. Discover these remarkable reptiles in Dreamworld’s Wetlands, where they showcase the quieter—but still powerful—side of the crocodile family.

EmuCorroboree & Australian Wildlife

Emu

Dromaius novaehollandiae

Animal group: Bird

Habitat: Arid

Conservation status: Least concern

Australia’s second-tallest bird, the emu, is made for life on the move. Covering vast distances with ease, these remarkable birds thrive across diverse landscapes—and you’ll spot them right here in Dreamworld’s Arid area.