Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary to Star in New Docuseries "The Animal Sanctuary"
A major new wildlife docuseries is heading to screens in 2026. Set against the unique backdrop of Tasmania, "The Animal Sanctuary" will follow the day-to-day operations of the renowned Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary.
The eight-episode series is scheduled for release on Paramount+ and Network Ten in Australia, as well as various international streaming platforms, later in 2026.
The Story and Its Stars
The series will center on sanctuary director Greg Irons, his partner Mel, and the dedicated staff and volunteers who conduct vital wildlife rescue and rehabilitation operations. Bonorong coordinates over 20,000 animal rescues annually while also operating as a popular tourist destination.
"It's our actions that hurt the animals; it's changing our actions that will help them."
— Greg Irons
Irons has described Tasmania as "the Noah's Ark of Australian wildlife" and stated the series aims to educate viewers on human behaviors that harm animals. He emphasized the series will not shy away from difficult realities, noting the work includes challenging and heartbreaking situations alongside the successes.
A Long-Awaited Project
Greg Irons has stated he expressed interest in owning the sanctuary since the age of seven and successfully acquired it in 2009. While the sanctuary had received multiple offers for a television series in the past, they declined until the construction of a new hospital and the expansion of their team were completed.
Production and International Team
The production brings together an international team, including Australian production companies alongside two US studios known for "The Menendez Brothers" and "The Zoo."
- The sanctuary’s hospital was built with support from US "de-extinction" company Colossal Biosciences.
- Director of Photography Fraser Johnston, a former schoolmate of Irons, is contributing to the project.
Community and Economic Impact
The series is providing significant opportunities for local Tasmanians in the film industry.
- Seven University of Tasmania media students participated in 12-day placements on the series, gaining hands-on experience in film and post-production.
- Post-producer Claire Clements noted this is her first local Tasmanian project in five years.
- The series is providing six months of work for the post-production team, who will edit the eight one-hour episodes entirely in Tasmania.