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Originally called Marineland Zoological Gardens, this place was built in 1958 and purchased by George and Shirley Craig in 1971. The Craig’s were returning to Australia after living in Papua New Guinea for 16 years. When they moved to Green Island, they brought their children, some of their crocodiles, and a large collection of tribal art and artefacts with them. They renamed it Marineland Melanesia and have been here ever since. While living on the island has not always been easy, the family have invested a lot of hard work and dedication into Marineland Melanesia and are proud to call Green Island their home. Below is a brief timeline of George Craig and his lifetime of adventures.
George was born in Peru and moved to England for school in 1939, just as World War II began. He survived several near misses with bombs and crashing planes during this time.
George nearly joined the French Foreign Legion, but instead stowed away on a ship bound for Jamaica. He and his mate were caught and fined 5 pounds each in Bristol Police Court.
A very busy time in George’s life. He moved to Australia and learned the art of crocodile hunting in Darwin. He met and married wife Shirley and moved to Papua New Guinea.
George spent the 60s travelling up and down the Fly River, hunting and catching crocodiles. Wife Shirley ran a trading store on Daru and George started to collect art and artefacts.
With the political situation changing in Papua New Guinea, the Craig family moved back to Australia and bought Marineland on Green Island. This was the beginning of their new chapter.
The Craig Family was growing their collection of crocodiles and the mighty Cassius joined the family at Marineland Melanesia, a place he has called home ever since.
George and Shirley Craig stayed on the island, running their business and raising their family. They’ve seen many changes here since they first arrived and overcome many challenges.
The Marineland property turned 50 in 2004. It retains active use of some original features, including the aquariums and turtle pond, along with new buildings and additions.
This family business continues to evolve, with the latest addition being the introduction of the Green Island Coral Nursery, an initiative of the next generation of Craigs.
Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat is open 7 days a week, from 9am to 4pm. Your admission ticket provides you with entry throughout the day, so you can come and go as you please.
© Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat 2024
