Hartley's Creek Crocodile Farm Cairns, Australia
They laze in the sun perfectly still with their mouths wide open. Their skin is green, hard and scaly. They have huge teeth, and their jaw muscles are strong enough to crush bone.
At Hartley's Creek Crocodile Farm, hundreds of these prehistoric animals live together in a natural environment.
Hartley's Creek is a working crocodile farm that produces skins and meat for export. It is also one of Australia's longest running and most successful crocodile shows, having operated since the 1930s. At the farm you'll see the violent feeding displays as big saltwater crocs munch on chicken carcasses. But it's also an educational experience and you'll feel enlightened to learn about the complex history of these adaptable and ancient reptiles.
In addition to crocodiles at the farm, Koalas, Kangaroos, Cassowaries, Dingoes, Snakes and other reptiles native to Australia call it their home.
Where is Hartley's Creek?
Hartley's Creek Crocodile Farm is located about half way along the scenic coastal road stretching between Cairns and Port Douglas in an area of rainforest known as - you guessed it - Harley's Creek. It takes 35 minutes to reach the farm from Cairns and 20 minutes from Port Douglas. It's the ideal place to stop for a visit if you are making the transit between Cairns and Port Douglas in a rental car.
Star Attraction
One of the most famous icons of Tropical North Queensland is a bloke named Charlie. This old fellow has made an indelible mark on the culture of the region with his cheeky antics. And he's a crocodile.
Charlie entertains visitors to the farm during his daily feedings, and it is estimated that he is 70-80 years old. Crocodiles have been known to live for 120 years in captivity so Charlie may be entertaining people for many years to come.