Australia Zoo

Overview Australia Zoo, located on Steve Irwin Way in Beerwah on the Sunshine Coast, is a wildlife conservation facility and tourist attraction. Established in 1970 by Bob and Lyn Irwin, the zoo is now owned by Terri Irwin and continues the conservation legacy of her late husband, Steve Irwin. The facility spans over 100 acres and is home to more than 1,200 native and exotic animals. The zoo is designed with a variety of habitats that replicate the animals' natural environments, including an African Savannah exhibit with giraffes and rhinos, a South-East Asia area with tigers, and sections dedicated to Australian wildlife.

The zoo's daily schedule includes numerous wildlife shows and keeper talks, with the main event being the Wildlife Warriors show in the 5,000-seat Crocoseum. This show features large crocodiles, birds, and snakes. In addition to animal viewing, the zoo offers interactive experiences, children's play areas, a water park, and educational programs. Adjacent to the zoo is the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, which provides treatment to sick, injured, and orphaned wildlife; visitors can get a "sneak peek" of the hospital for an additional fee.

Highlights

• Watch the daily Wildlife Warriors show in the Crocoseum, which features crocodiles, birds, and snakes.
• Interact with kangaroos in the 'Roo Heaven' walk-through enclosure, where visitors can hand-feed them.
• Explore themed habitats such as the African Savannah, the Tiger Temple, and Bindi's Island, which houses ring-tailed lemurs.

Community Sentiment (The "Vibe")

What parents like: The zoo is often described as clean with spacious, well-maintained enclosures. Families appreciate the variety of animals, the number of daily shows, and the educational focus on conservation. The passion and friendliness of the staff are also frequently mentioned.

What to watch out for: The zoo is very large, requiring a significant amount of walking that can be tiring for small children. It can get very hot, particularly during midday, and crowds can be large on weekends and during school holidays. While general admission includes shows and access to play areas, many animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours come at an additional cost.

Logistics & Tips

Best for: All ages. Children under 3 are admitted free of charge. Zoo Keeper for a Day programs are offered for children aged 4 to 17.

Facilities: Free car parking, cafés and food kiosks, toilets, parents' nursing rooms, a water splash park, playgrounds, and a jumping pillow. The zoo is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and an elevator. Prams, wagons, wheelchairs, and motorised scooters are available for hire (bookings recommended).

Note: Visitors can bring their own food and drinks. It is recommended to arrive early to make the most of the day, as some animals go to bed from 4:30 pm. A free internal shuttle bus is available to help navigate the large grounds.