From Adventure to Advocacy:
The Heartfelt Journey of Eventide Sanctuary

Ian is a veteran who came out of the British Army and came to Australia to readjust after his experience in the Army as a young man. In Australia, he bought an old 4x4 and began his journeys around Australia seeking the remote tracks and trails to find the real hidden beauty of Australia.

Along the way he stopped for work, working on outback stations, (where he got fired after they found out it was him who deactivated all the home-made wombat traps!) and as a mechanic on Fraser Island, (where he collected all the spare parts to build his 4x4!).

He then completed the iconic Telegraph Track up to the most northern tip of Australia at Cape York. His truck was needing repairs after the gruelling journey, so he asked the local indigenous workshop to use the facilities in return for work. Unknown to Ian, this was a huge surprise to them, and they soon loaded him up with work and he integrated into their community. During this time, Ian connected with his loyal friend Wally. Wally was a stray bush dog who had found shelter in the local workshop. Poor Wally had a nasty leg injury and Ian spent his wages and spare time feeding Wally, taking care of him and sharing adventures together.

During this time something connected between Wally and Ian and they both explored the rest of Australia together over the next 10 years, Wally’s adventures have become well known all over the country, never being too far from Ian’s side even in most workplaces!

Ian believes Wally gave him a new direction in his life and from the moment he met him he knew his purpose was to rescue more animals like Wally!

In Eventide's early days, Diana visited and instantly connected with Ian through their shared love of animals and the environment. Now, together, they provide a safe and loving home to Tasmania's rescued animals.

Ian, Diana, Wally and all the animals, would love to welcome you to Eventide Sanctuary and support a sanctuary dedicated to animal welfare and conservation.

Make a Booking!

Please use the form to request a date/time to visit us.

We will then confirm your booking and you can pay on the day.

✅ Farm Tours ✅ Highland Cows Farm Tour

✅ Farm Skills Workshops  ✅Events ✅ Custom Tours

✅ Campsites please book via Hipcamp

Disclaimer: Guests or Visitors to Eventide Sanctuary, 473 Sugarloaf Road, Carlton River, Tasmania are required to accept responsibility and liability for their own activities and safety while on the property. This is inclusive of any advertised activities or tours and any activities guest choose to conduct. My guests safety and the safety of my animals is my highest priority and as such I may need to give stern directions at times to ensure the safety of everyone.It is expected that everyone will follow my directions without hesitation and always maintain control of children. If I feel my directions are not being followed I reserve the right to cancel any tours and ask guest to leave the property without any refunds.

We are all about having fun at Eventide Sanctuary but that fun most be safe and enjoyable for everyone, including the animals! Thank you! You will love it here!