One of the Northern Rivers much loved family school holiday venues has been sold.

It was announced during the week, The Macadamia Castle in Knockrow has been sold to conservation group Wildlife Recovery Australia (WRA) who operate Australia’s largest Mobile Wildlife Hospital.

Wildlife Recovery Australia (WRA) is a joint venture of Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital and Odonata Foundation, combining resources to run mobile wildlife hospitals and build predator-proof sanctuaries. It is chaired by economist and passionate wildlife conservationist Dr Ken Henry AC.

“Wildlife Recovery Australia was created to fill gaps in the way Australia protects wildlife and acts to recover endangered species,” said Dr Henry.

“This is vital work at a critical time for Australian native animals. We’re excited and honoured to build on the animal welfare, conservation and education work done by the previous owners.”

Don't worry, the Macadamia Castle will stay open and operate as normal over the school holidays. The Macadamia Castle features an animal park, retail and hospitality services.

"There are lot's of exciting things planned," said a spokesperson, "There will be a lot of changes happening. We will be working on upgrades and continue to add to the current offerings."

Improvements will start from the first of October when the property settles.

Tony Gilding has owned The Macadamia Castle since 2007, he is retiring to focus on health and family. Tony said he was delighted to see WRA as the new owners.

“Their expertise in wildlife conservation is unparalleled. Our much-loved community-focused business will be in amazing hands as they lead The Macadamia Castle into a new era of wildlife education and conservation for local, interstate and overseas visitors.”

Odonata Founder and WRA Director Mr Nigel Sharp said that WRA’s collective strengths and new management structure will build on the foundations of current activities operating on site.

“This is a unique model for wildlife conservation in Australia. We’re demonstrating the power of business to sustainably fund solutions to treat, rehabilitate and recover wildlife,” said Mr Sharp.

“The site provides natural environments suitable to rehabilitate and care for wildlife patients on-site. There is also scope to become a hub for threatened species breeding programs and environmental science research programs.”

Founder and CEO of Byron Bay Wildlife Hospital and WRA Director Dr Stephen Van Mil said the purchase will create new opportunities for public education about Australian native animals.

“From our new home, we will continue to provide expert veterinary services for wildlife free of charge. Offering educational visitor experiences alongside our veterinary and conservation work will help to inform people about the skills, facilities and resources required to give wildlife the quality care they deserve,” said Dr. Van Mil.

“It costs a lot of money to provide expert veterinary treatment, rehabilitation facilities for wildlife. WRA continues to seek philanthropic donations, private sector capital and public funding to carry out this important work to save wildlife.”

“We will continue to operate retail and hospitality services and to welcome the 200,000+ annual visitors to The Macadamia Castle. By continuing to support and visit, current and new customers can contribute to positive welfare outcomes for Australian wildlife.”

The Macadamia Castle will also be the departure point for deployment of the Mobile Wildlife Hospital to respond to injured, diseased, traumatised or stranded native animals during a crisis, anywhere in Australia.