Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Overview Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is a 27-hectare heritage-listed zoological garden on the Gold Coast. Established in 1947, the sanctuary is home to a wide collection of Australian native wildlife and some exotic species, and operates as a not-for-profit organisation with proceeds contributing to the on-site wildlife hospital and conservation projects. Visitors can explore the grounds on foot, via a miniature train that circuits the park, or by booking a guided Segway tour.

The sanctuary offers a range of experiences, including daily keeper presentations, animal feeding sessions, and live shows such as the WildSkies Free Flight Bird Show and the Ngari-bah Aboriginal Culture Show. Interactive encounters are a key feature, with opportunities to hand-feed kangaroos and wild lorikeets. For an additional cost, guests can book personal encounters with animals like koalas, capybaras, and echidnas. The grounds also include the "Lost Valley" precinct, which replicates a Gondwanan rainforest, a splash park for children, and playground areas.

Highlights

• Opportunities for close contact with native animals, including hand-feeding kangaroos and wild rainbow lorikeets.
• A daily schedule of shows and presentations, including the WildSkies Free Flight Bird Show and Aboriginal cultural performances.
• An on-site wildlife hospital where visitors can view veterinarians at work and learn about the conservation efforts for injured wildlife.

Community Sentiment (The "Vibe")

What parents like: The friendly and knowledgeable volunteers, the variety of animals and shows, and the interactive nature of the kangaroo enclosure. The park is considered pram-friendly, and children under four are admitted free of charge. The inclusion of playgrounds and a water play area is also a noted positive.

What to watch out for: The park can get busy, especially around 10 am. There are additional costs for parking ($10 per day), koala photos, and specific animal encounters. Some pathways have steep gradients which may be challenging.

Logistics & Tips

Best for: All ages, with specific attractions like the Wild Island Adventure Splash Zone designed for kids up to 12 years old.

Facilities: Multiple food and beverage outlets including cafes and burger bars, toilets, baby change facilities, and picnic areas. The sanctuary is largely pram and wheelchair accessible, with wheelchair hire available. Paid parking is available on-site.

Note: It is recommended to pre-book animal encounters online as spaces are limited. Guests can bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks. The wild lorikeet feeding occurs outside the main entrance at 8 am and 4 pm and can be experienced without purchasing a ticket to the sanctuary.