dreamworld guests take pole position over reptile ruler, goliath

Standing on a glass-walled feeding ramp just a couple of metres above the water line, Dreamworld guests can now take pole position over a massive five metre salt water crocodile, called Goliath, thanks to 1.2 metre long “fishing” pole and a lump of fresh chicken.

Held three times a week during the warmer months, Dreamworld’s 90-minute Croc Feeding Experience is available to just five members of the public per session and is the only place south of Rockhampton where visitors can get close enough to hand feed these prehistoric creatures. The encounter also includes a briefing session, croc feeding, croc photo and croc cuddles.

“Nothing compares to feeding a five metre croc,” said Dreamworld’s GM of Life Sciences, Al Mucci.

“Goliath’s head is twice the size as the average person’s shoulders. When he catapults his one tonne body out of the water and snaps open those massive jaws, all you can see from above is a very long black hole framed by incredibly sharp teeth.

“All this happens just metres from your hand. It’s frightening and it’s a pure adrenalin rush,” he added.

Dreamworld’s Croc Feeding Experience was launched on January 5, 2010 and it seems Goliath and his co-habiting girlfriend, Matilda, love the extra attention. Often mistaken for statues during the day, it only takes the footsteps of the guests on the ramp for the pair to quickly move into their preferred launching position under the feeding ramp.

Dreamworld’s Croc Feeding Experience costs $99 per person. For bookings, call (07) 5556 1111.