Pelican Time at The Entrance, one of the Central Coast’s must-see experiences, is back and better than ever after listening to the environment and fine-tuning its wildlife care. The show, where big, graceful birds sweep in around a local fish shop, actually started as a happy accident: old fish scraps tossed at closing time turned into a free dinner bell for the pelicans. What began as a simple daily catch turned into a cherished family ritual, yet worries about the birds’ health and safety pushed the Central Coast Council to take a closer look.
Two years ago, the Central Coast Council, which owned the attraction, conducted a thorough review that questioned the sustainability of the pelican feeding event. This review concluded that feeding the pelicans regularly could be detrimental to their health and did not align with the region’s certification as a world-class destination for sustainable tourism. The review’s findings suggested that changes were necessary to ensure the welfare of the birds and avoid exploiting them for tourism marketing purposes.
The review was part of an ongoing effort to maintain the region’s reputation for ecotourism, and it prompted a complete rethink of how Pelican Time could continue without compromising its commitment to sustainable practices. The council sought expert input from wildlife specialists to devise a more eco-friendly and educational programme, focusing on the protection of marine wildlife rather than merely entertaining the crowds.
In collaboration with experts in marine life, the Central Coast Council overhauled the program, aiming to reduce the frequency of feedings while emphasising education and conservation. The revised Pelican Time program, now operated by Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast, places a greater focus on educating the public about the challenges marine animals face in the region. Marine Wildlife Rescue volunteers, including those with decades of experience, were brought in to help shape the new direction of the attraction.
The updated programme, unlike the previous years, does not merely focus on feeding the birds but aims to provide visitors with insight into the issues faced by local wildlife, particularly the injuries caused by fishing activities. The approach has been met with positive feedback from both the local community and visitors, who are now learning about the environmental challenges the area faces while observing pelicans in a responsible setting.
Marine Wildlife Rescue Central Coast, which has been involved in rescuing and rehabilitating marine animals for over 30 years, took over the management of the attraction. Volunteers, many of whom have a deep connection with the region’s marine life, have been instrumental in reshaping Pelican Time’s mission. The new programme seeks to educate visitors about the importance of marine conservation and the challenges faced by the birds due to human activities, particularly from fishing.
The updated approach includes providing expert advice on the safe treatment of injured pelicans, with a focus on rehabilitation and release into the wild. Whenever necessary, the injured birds are taken to the vet for further treatment, and, if possible, they are returned to their natural habitat after recovery.
This shift towards a more conservation-focused experience has been welcomed by both locals and visitors who appreciate the educational aspect of Pelican Time. The programme now emphasises the importance of protecting local wildlife while maintaining the attraction’s appeal to tourists.
Since the program’s revamp, Pelican Time has witnessed significant growth, attracting over 38,000 visitors annually, a number that has doubled in just one year. The attraction, which was once on the verge of being cancelled, has now become a key tourism driver for the region. Visitors from all around the world, including those from nearby Sydney, have flocked to The Entrance to witness this unique wildlife experience.
Tourists are not just drawn to Pelican Time for the opportunity to see the birds but also for the chance to learn about the importance of conservation efforts in the region. The programme has become a must-see for nature lovers and families, with many visitors citing it as the main reason for their trip to the Central Coast.
One visitor from south-west Sydney, who travelled specifically to see the pelicans, expressed appreciation for how the program now benefits injured wildlife. The chance to see injured pelicans receiving care and rehabilitation has made the attraction even more meaningful for tourists, who now associate Pelican Time with wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism practices.
Bianca Gilmore, Manager of Visitor Economy at the Central Coast Council, emphasised the significance of the revamped Pelican Time programme in the region’s tourism landscape. She noted that the event not only attracts local residents but also international visitors. The popularity of Pelican Time has firmly placed the Central Coast on the map for eco-conscious travellers looking for unique, nature-based tourism experiences.
For many, Pelican Time has become synonymous with the Central Coast. When visitors think of this coastal destination, they often think of the pelicans. As sustainable tourism continues to gain momentum, attractions like Pelican Time are proving that it is possible to blend tourism with environmental responsibility. By focusing on education and wildlife conservation, Pelican Time is now recognised as a leading example of how tourism can benefit both the economy and the environment.
Pelican Time is evolving into a shining example of how tourism can nurture rather than harm the places we love. Focused on conservation and guided by sustainable practices, the programme is ready for many more years of success. Its thoughtful redesign now serves as a handy blueprint for other destinations: strong planning and a commitment to protecting nature can go hand in hand with a thriving visitor economy.
By weaving learning into every one of its experiences, Pelican Time has wedged itself firmly in the Central Coast’s visitor lineup and opened doors for an eco-friendlier way of doing business around the globe. Travellers will keep arriving along the Central Coast, and Pelican Time, with its mix of fun and insight, will continue to be a highlight — delivering joy and a lasting bond with the natural world for anyone eager for a richer trip.
Read more on Travel And Tour World
