Cooya Beach might be home to the next Steve Irwin after 8 year-old Colby Taylor won the opportunity to be a Keeper for a day at the Wildlife Habitat.

Colby, who won a competition through Port Douglas Magazine, was up with the birds in preparation for his big day ahead.

Donning his keeper uniform, Colby cleaned cages, helped with the animal feeding, and got a close-up view of his favourite Wildlife Habitat residents - the koalas.

Sian Carr, Wildlife Keeper at Habitat said the program is a brilliant way for people to learn more about Australia's native animals.

"The kids get a really hands on experience and actually get to be involved in the day-to-day keeping duties we do.

"It's a fun way to get up nice and close to animals, and they get to learn a lot as well."

The Keeper for a day program isn't just for youngsters, people of all ages can get involved by calling the Wildlife Habitat on 4099 3235.