KANGAROO CONSERVATION CENTER LAUNCHES ALL NEW "AUSSIE OUTING" FOR 2009!

DAWSONVILLE, Ga. -The Kangaroo Conservation Center (KCC) begins its 10th year of operation in March, with a brand-new offering for 2009 - the "Aussie Outing." Offering more flexible scheduling, a variety of animal shows and the fully narrated "KangaRanger" rides through the "Georgia Outback" at regular intervals throughout the day, the Aussie Outing affords families and groups even more opportunity to learn from, and be entertained by, the Center's animals and the people who care for them.

The first scheduled Aussie Outing will commence Saturday, March 14, with tickets available online through www.kangaroocenter.com. Visitors who purchase tickets online enjoy a discount not offered by phone or at the door. Aussie Outing tickets through the month of May are available on the website. Additional months will open online as the season progresses.
Spring is the perfect time to visit KCC, as the foothills turn to green and the temperatures are comfortable for enjoying the great outdoors. Walking trails that meander between kangaroo habitats, through plantings of native flowers and trees and down to the "Billabong Encounter" afford ample viewing of the KCC's marsupial residents, as does the butterfly picnic garden. "Aussie Outing" days and dates vary, so potential visitors are strongly encouraged to check the tour calendars on the website for the most up-to-date information regarding availability.

Profiled by NBC-TV's "Today" show in July 2008, Delta Sky magazine in April 2008 and rated "Fodor's Choice" by Fodor's The Carolinas and Georgia, 17th Edition in 2007; the KCC features the largest kangaroo collection outside of Australia. An eventful 2008 tour season brought record crowds to the Center, up 43% from 2007, thanks in part to the extra exposure.
The staff at the Kangaroo Conservation Center have successfully bred, and cared for, a dozen different species of marsupials for over 25 years. Certified by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the KCC is dedicated to the preservation of kangaroo species and other wildlife through captive breeding and public education.

The Aussie Outing admission is $30-32 for adults, $28 for senior citizens (65 and over) and $23-25 for children ages 5-17, tax not included. The "Wander DownUnder" self-guided walking tour is $16 per person plus tax and is available on specific days only. For additional information, and to purchase tickets, go to www.kangaroocenter.com. Group rates are available for those having 30 or more people.

Picnickers are welcome. Snacks and beverages are available in the "Aussie Outpost" gift shop. The Aussie Outpost also offers a wide selection of unique gifts with an "Aussie" flavor. This year the KCC is proud to offer an even better selection of eco-friendly items. Both beautiful and creative, these products are made from recycled or natural elements. Wall art, photo frames, sun catchers and hand-crafted papers - all good for the environment.

To reach the Kangaroo Conservation Center from Atlanta, take Georgia Hwy. 400 North to Hwy. 136. Go left (west) on Hwy. 136, and travel 12 miles. Turn right onto Bailey-Waters Road at the Forrest Hills Conference Center sign. Drive about 100 yards to the first entrance on the right - just look for the large bamboo gate.