About Secret Creek

Secret Creek is a conservation precinct on Wiradjuri Country where several organisations work together with shared values and a commitment to protecting land, culture and community. The precinct brings together wildlife conservation, cultural knowledge, education and community programs in one place.

Secret Creek Sanctuary is operated as part of the Gardens of Stone Visitor Centre precinct, with conservation leadership provided by Australian Ecosystems Foundation Incorporated (AEFI) — an independent, not‑for‑profit charity that delivers wildlife protection projects across Australia. AEFI supports a range of conservation initiatives, including the development of the Wollemi Wildlife Hospital.

The precinct is also home to OneMob, who lead cultural education, workshops and community programs grounded in Wiradjuri knowledge and connection to Country.

Together, these organisations create a place where visitors can learn, connect and contribute to the protection of native wildlife and cultural heritage.

Our Story

Secret Creek began as a sanctuary dedicated to protecting some of Australia’s most vulnerable native species. Over time, it has grown into a collaborative conservation precinct where wildlife care, cultural knowledge and community education come together.

The precinct sits on Wiradjuri Country and has evolved through the work of passionate people and organisations who share a commitment to protecting land, culture and wildlife. What started as a small sanctuary has expanded into a place where visitors can learn about native species, experience cultural connection and support conservation projects that make a real difference.

Today, Secret Creek brings together the work of Australian Ecosystems Foundation Incorporated (AEFI), OneMob and the Gardens of Stone Visitor Centre — each contributing their own strengths to create a precinct grounded in respect, care and connection to Country.

Our Conservation Work

Secret Creek has a long history of hands‑on conservation, with a focus on protecting threatened native species and strengthening ecological resilience. The sanctuary in collaboration with Australian Ecosystems Foundation Inc (AEFI) has supported breeding programs, habitat restoration and species recovery projects that contribute to long‑term conservation outcomes across Australia.

AEFI leads the precinct’s conservation work, delivering projects that include threatened species management, wildlife rehabilitation, ecological monitoring and community education. AEFI’s work at Secret Creek has supported species such as the Eastern Quoll, Brush‑tailed Rock‑wallaby, Mountain Pygmy‑possum and a range of native birds, reptiles and amphibians.

The precinct continues to evolve, with new initiatives such as the Wollemi Wildlife Hospital, which will expand capacity to support wildlife carers, rescue networks and emergency response during bushfires and extreme weather events.

Secret Creek’s conservation work is grounded in practical action, scientific knowledge and deep respect for Country — ensuring that wildlife protection remains at the heart of everything we do.

About AEFI

Australian Ecosystems Foundation Incorporated is an independent, not‑for‑profit environmental organisation dedicated to protecting Australian wildlife and the habitats they depend on. AEFI manages conservation reserves, delivers species recovery programs, and leads ecological restoration projects across Australia.

The AEFI Management Committee includes conservation biologists, researchers, tourism operators, Indigenous educators, farmers and community leaders — bringing together a broad range of skills and experience to guide our work.

AEFI supports multiple conservation initiatives, including the development of the Wollemi Wildlife Hospital. Learn more at: www.ausecosystems.org.au

OneMob at Secret Creek

OneMob is an Aboriginal‑led organisation that delivers cultural education, workshops and community programs grounded in Wiradjuri knowledge and connection to Country. Their work at Secret Creek strengthens cultural understanding and provides opportunities for visitors, schools and community groups to learn directly from First Nations educators.

Through cultural experiences, storytelling, on‑Country learning and youth programs, OneMob helps connect people with the land, language and traditions of the Wiradjuri Nation. Their presence at Secret Creek ensures that cultural knowledge, respect and community remain central to the precinct.

OneMob also collaborates with AEFI and the Gardens of Stone Visitor Centre to support events, cultural activities and community engagement across the region.

Gardens of Stone Visitor Centre

The Gardens of Stone Visitor Centre is the public gateway to the Secret Creek precinct, offering visitor information, wildlife experiences, cultural programs and community engagement. The centre supports the work of AEFI and OneMob by providing a space where conservation, culture and education come together.

Located at the entrance to Secret Creek Sanctuary, the Visitor Centre includes accessible facilities, native species displays, cultural interpretation and a welcoming place for visitors to learn about the region. It also serves as the coordination point for sanctuary entry, events, school programs and community activities.

The Visitor Centre is operated as part of the broader Secret Creek precinct and plays an important role in connecting visitors with the conservation work, cultural knowledge and wildlife protection efforts happening across the site.

About Secret Creek