- SEA LIFE, Crocodile Lair
SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium has welcomed its newest resident, a magnificent saltwater crocodile (crocodylus porosus) from Rockhampton, Queensland.
Melbourne, meet Coowonga!
His name, Coowonga (as voted for on social by Melburnians), was a Darumbal man who saved the life of King O'Malley, who would go on to help establish the Commonwealth Bank and become an MP. Coowoonga is also the traditional name of the land he came to us from Rockhampton Queensland, before making his big journey to SEA LIFE Melbourne.
A journey across states
Now calling Croc Lair home, he plays an important role in helping our explorers understand the vital place apex predators hold in Australia’s ecosystems. Join our daily keeper talks to hear his story unfold and learn how conservation success stories can begin.
Take a closer look at his arrival
Crocodile Facts
Have you ever seen a crocodile resting on land with its mouth open? While it may look intimidating, this behaviour isn’t a sign of aggression. Crocodiles often do this during hot summer months to regulate their body temperature. Unlike humans, they can’t sweat, so they cool down by circulating air through their mouths, similar to how dogs pant.
Crocodiles are truly awe-inspiring animals, and learning about their behaviour up close has helped generations of guests better understand and respect these ancient reptiles.
Book Online & Save
General Admission
- Price includes a Digi Photo Pass, giving you online access to your digital entry photos – valued at $26!
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Ticket Type SAVE 25% - Pre-book online in advance on weekdays Price on the day/ School Holidays/ Weekends Adult From $39.00 From $53.00 Child (2-15 yrs) From $25.00 From $39.00 Concession* From $32.00 From $46.00 Child (Under 2 yrs) FREE FREE *All concession holders must have a valid concession/student/health care card to gain access to the attraction with a Concession ticket.
Please note: Our ticket pricing is subject to available capacity and prices may fluctuate during periods of high demand.
- Book a date and time to guarantee entry
- Discover thousands of creatures including penguins, jellyfish and a mega Croc!
- Children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by a responsible adult aged 18+
SEA LIFE Melbourne Annual Pass
- 12 months of family fun at SEA LIFE Melbourne
- This pass has some restricted dates
- Receive a great range of exclusive benefits and deals
- Pre-booking is essential across all attractions
General Admission + VR Experience
- Price includes a Digi Photo Pass, giving you online access to your digital entry photos – valued at $26!
- Experience the ocean from a whole new angle with our immersive Virtual Reality experience!
- Choose from different ocean and sea creature themed experiences as you take a virtual journey below the surface!
Saltwater Crocodile FAQs: Meet Coowonga
Curious about the crocodile at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium? Learn more about Coowonga, including his size, age, diet and incredible adaptations as a saltwater crocodile.
Saltwater Crocodiles were close to extinction in the 1970s due to hunting. Thanks to conservation laws and protection efforts, their populations have recovered significantly.
The crocodile at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium is Coowonga, a saltwater crocodile originally from Queensland.
Coowonga the crocodile is named after the traditional lands of the Darumbal tribe where he was relocated.
Coowonga was removed from a river in Queensland by rangers in 2015 after he posed a risk to humans. Crocodiles removed from the wild are typically relocated to a crocodile farm or holding facility. Coowonga was transported to the Koorana Crocodile farm and then relocated to a permanent home at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium in 2026.
Coowonga travelled over 36 hours from Queensland in a specially designed crate. He was closely monitored by a veterinarian throughout the journey and carefully introduced into his new habitat.
Large male saltwater crocodiles are naturally solitary and highly territorial. Keeping more than one crocodile in the same space could lead to aggressive behaviour and serious injury.
Yes, Coowonga is a real, live saltwater crocodile at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium.
Like all crocodiles, he is an expert ambush predator. In the wild, crocodiles lie almost completely still in the water, waiting for prey to come close before striking with incredible speed and power. They can slow their heart rate to just a few beats per minute and hold their breath for up to two hours, allowing them to stay hidden beneath the surface for long periods.
Saltwater Crocodiles can hold their breath for up to two hours. They do this by slowing their heart rate to as little as 2–3 beats per minute.
Coowonga is approximately 4.3 metres long and weighs around 400 kilograms.
Male saltwater crocodiles are larger than females. Large males can reach more than 5 metres and weigh up to 750 kilograms!
Coowonga is estimated to be between 35 and 45 years old. Because he was born in the wild, his exact age is unknown.
As a carnivore, Coowonga's diet includes meat such as chicken.
Saltwater Crocodiles store fat in their tails, allowing them to go for months, sometimes even up to a year, without eating. At SEA LIFE Melbourne, Coowonga is usually fed every one to two weeks, depending on his appetite and behaviour.
Coowonga’s teeth appear dark due to tannins from the muddy water he previously lived in. As crocodiles regularly shed and regrow their teeth, these will gradually be replaced with lighter ones over time.
Saltwater crocodiles have existed for over 200 million years and have changed very little over time. They are highly adaptable, and live in rivers, estuaries, and coastal environments.
World Crocodile Day
Join the global celebration on June 17th as conservationists, researchers, and wildlife enthusiasts come together to honour the powerful and majestic crocodile family. World Crocodile Day shines a spotlight on these incredible predators and highlights the importance of conservation efforts worldwide.
From the Nile crocodile in Africa to the saltwater crocodile in Australia, these ancient creatures have fascinated humans for centuries. Discover more about World Crocodile Day and how you can help protect crocodiles and their habitats for generations to come.
Pinjarra
It is with deep sadness that SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium announces the passing of Pinjarra, our much-loved 65-year-old saltwater crocodile.
After learning he had an untreatable illness, and in consultation with our expert veterinary team, we made the decision that compassionate euthanasia was in his best interest.
Pinjarra has been an extraordinary ambassador for his species, inspiring thousands of guests and helping to raise awareness about the importance of protecting crocodile habitats.
The welfare of our animals remains our highest priority. Following Pinjarra’s passing, our team will conduct a thorough post-mortem necropsy alongside our specialist crocodile veterinarian.
This loss is felt deeply by those who have provided dedicated care to Pinjarra over the years, as well as by our wider community of staff, guests and partners. We are grateful for the support of our community during this time.
Remembering Pinjarra
Measuring just under 6 metres and weighing over 750kg, Pinjarra, our 65-year-old male saltwater crocodile, was a truly spectacular animal.
For many years, Pinjarra, affectionately known as our Mega Croc, inspired awe and curiosity among guests at SEA LIFE Melbourne. Through his presence, our team was able to educate visitors about the ecological importance of saltwater crocodiles and the vital role they play in wetland ecosystems. As apex predators, saltwater crocodiles help maintain balance by preventing overpopulation and ecosystem degradation.
Once driven close to extinction in the 1970s due to poaching, saltwater crocodiles are now listed as ‘Least Concern’, thanks to conservation programs and protective legislation. Pinjarra’s legacy continues to support awareness and appreciation of these remarkable animals and the importance of protecting them in the wild.
