Symbio Wildlife Park enjoyed a surprise visit from David and Victoria Beckham and three of their children Harper, Cruz and Romeo.
The family-run Helensburgh zoo was given just a few hours notice before the family’s arrival last Wednesday.
Symbio general manager Matt Radnidge is a big football Fan and couldn’t believe it when staff told him David Beckham was about to arrive.
The family chose Symbio for the chance to have a quiet family day out.
They wanted to keep their visit discreet which is why they chose the small zoo that could provide them a relaxed family experience away from the paparazzi.
They all enjoyed an up close and personal encounter on a grass area near the reptile house and entered a few exhibits including the Red Pandas.
“It was a cold cloudy day and we are able to give them special access to a number of exhibits,” Symbio’s Kevin Fallon said.
“I think they wanted to get out of Sydney and come here because being able to escape scrutiny and the public eye was a big attraction”.
They went to Glenworth Valley the day before but did not go to the Reptile Park.
“The Beckham family were just able to go at their own pace and be themselves. Especially the kids,” Mr Fallon said.
“They were all so down to earth, quiet and nice. And Victoria was lovely. She was so kind and polite.”
David Beckham later shared some photos of up close animal encounters with a koala, red panda, a snake and other animals on his Instagram account which has 51.7 million followers.
The family also got to feed kangaroos and see the Tasmanian Devils.
Mr Fallon said it was not the first time Symbio had welcomed major celebrities.
Heidi Klum, Kelly Clarkeson, Elle Macpherson have all visited in the past.
And just one month ago rapper Khalid called in and also shared his experience on his The GR8 Khalid Instagram page.
Mr Fallon said such high profile people sharing posts about their visit to Symbio on social media was promotion money can’t buy.
