Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Overview Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, established in 1927, is recognised as the world's first and largest koala sanctuary. Located in Fig Tree Pocket, 12 kilometres from Brisbane's CBD, the sanctuary is home to over 100 koalas and more than 70 species of native Australian wildlife. The facility focuses on conservation, education, and providing visitors with opportunities to interact with a variety of animals in a natural riverside setting.

The sanctuary offers a daily schedule of keeper talks and wildlife presentations, including a Free Flight Raptor Show, Sheep Dog Show, and educational talks about koalas and dingoes. In addition to observing animals like the platypus, wombats, Tasmanian devils, and various reptiles, visitors can enter a large reserve to hand-feed free-roaming kangaroos and wallabies. For an additional cost, guests can book unique animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours.

Highlights

• Interact with over 100 koalas and have the opportunity to book a close-up koala encounter.
• Hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies in a large, free-range enclosure.
• Watch a daily schedule of shows and presentations, including the Free Flight Raptor Show and the Sheep Dog Show.

Community Sentiment (The "Vibe")

What parents like: The variety of Australian animals, educational shows, and hands-on experiences like kangaroo feeding are frequently mentioned. The park's size is often described as manageable for a family day out without being overwhelming. The natural setting is also a positive feature for many visitors.

What to watch out for: The sanctuary can become crowded, particularly on weekends and during school holidays. Some activities, such as koala photos and special encounters, incur costs additional to the entry fee. While there are cafes, some visitors find the food options limited and suggest bringing your own food. The terrain is hilly, which may be challenging for unassisted wheelchairs.

Logistics & Tips

Best for: All ages. Children under 3 enter free of charge. Specific "Keeper for a Day" programs are available for ages 5-12 and 13-17.

Facilities: Free on-site parking, including accessible parking and electric vehicle charging stations. Multiple cafes, toilets, a parents' room, and a gift shop are available. The sanctuary is generally pram and wheelchair accessible, though some paths on the hilly terrain can be difficult. Stroller and wheelchair hire is available.

Note: It is recommended to arrive early to make the most of the day, as the kangaroos are often more active and hungry in the morning. Food for feeding kangaroos must be purchased at the entrance. The sanctuary is an all-weather venue with many covered areas.