Green Island Crocodiles - Marineland Melanesia

Marineland Melanesia is home to over 15 crocodiles representing a few different species including Australian saltwater crocodiles, an American Alligator and freshwater crocodiles from Papua New Guinea.

How did the crocs come to be here? The founder of Marineland Melanesia, George Craig, was a crocodile hunter in the 1950s operating in the Northern Territory and then Papua New Guinea. From being a hunter, he turned into a crocodile catcher and conservationist, and when he and his family moved back to Australia in the 1970s, they bought some of their crocodiles with them. Marineland was already on Green Island, and was then named Marineland Zoological Gardens, and had a resident crocodile. The Craig Family purchased Marineland in 1971, Green Island became their home and Marineland Melanesia Crocodile Habitat was born.

Once on Green Island, the Craig family became actively involved in a captive breeding program for saltwater crocodiles and at one stage, had over 50 of them at Marineland Melanesia.

Today, most of the saltwater crocodiles you’ll see during your visit here were either born here or are retired participants from the breeding program – this includes Grandma, who was once one of the most prolific egg-laying crocodiles in Queensland. There are exceptions to this rule and Marineland Melanesia is also home to some fierce predators who were captured and relocated here, after attacking people and pets. See their power during our wildlife shows, and admire the effortless grace with which they move through the water, and learn more on a self-guided audio tour.

We are located on Green Island, in the beautiful Great Barrier Reef, just a short boat ride from Cairns and five minute stroll from the Green Island jetty.

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.