Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary | Brisbane

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a popular wildlife park located in Fig Tree Pocket, a suburb of Brisbane, Australia. Established in 1927, it is the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary, providing a safe haven for koalas, along with a variety of other native Australian animals. The sanctuary is a favorite destination for tourists and locals alike, offering an immersive experience to get up close with Australia’s iconic wildlife in a natural setting.

Key Features of Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

1. Koalas and Other Wildlife

Koalas: Lone Pine is home to over 130 koalas, and visitors can see them up close in a natural, open-air environment. The sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation and welfare of koalas, and it offers koala encounters where visitors can have their photo taken while holding a koala (with strict welfare protocols in place). The sanctuary plays a key role in koala rehabilitation and has an extensive program for koala care and education about the species' conservation needs.

Other Australian Wildlife: In addition to koalas, the sanctuary is home to a wide variety of other native Australian animals. These include:

Kangaroos: Visitors can feed and interact with free-roaming red kangaroos and eastern grey kangaroos in dedicated grassy enclosures.

Wallabies: Smaller cousins of the kangaroo, wallabies are also part of the sanctuary's collection.

Wombats: These burrowing marsupials are another favorite among visitors.

Tasmanian Devils: These carnivorous marsupials, known for their feisty nature, are part of the sanctuary's unique animal exhibits.

Platypus: Lone Pine also has a platypus exhibit, showcasing one of Australia's most fascinating and rare creatures.

Birds: The sanctuary hosts a range of native Australian birds, such as the kookaburra, cockatoos, and emus, providing opportunities to interact with and learn about Australia’s avian species.

2. Educational and Interactive Experiences

Koala Education Talks: Lone Pine offers informative educational talks about koalas and their conservation status. Visitors can learn about koala habitats, behaviors, and the challenges they face in the wild, including threats from habitat destruction and disease.

Animal Encounters: In addition to koalas, the sanctuary provides a variety of animal encounters where visitors can get up close with different species. These interactive experiences allow for hands-on learning and create lasting memories of Australia’s unique wildlife.

Wildlife Shows: The sanctuary hosts regular wildlife presentations that give visitors the chance to see native animals up close. The staff often demonstrate animal behaviors and explain how these species survive in the wild, their importance to the ecosystem, and conservation efforts.

3. Conservation and Research

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is dedicated to the conservation and protection of koalas and other Australian wildlife. It participates in research programs focused on:

Koala population management.

Koala health and disease research.

Conservation efforts to protect habitats and improve public awareness of the threats facing these animals.

The sanctuary also supports various wildlife conservation organizations and contributes to the protection of Australia’s biodiversity.

4. Visitor Experience

Koala Photo Opportunities: The sanctuary provides a unique opportunity for visitors to hold a koala and take photos (subject to animal welfare guidelines). This experience is one of the most popular activities at Lone Pine, and it allows people to take a memorable piece of Australia home with them.

Kangaroo Feeding: The kangaroo and wallaby enclosures are designed for visitors to have the chance to feed and interact with these iconic Australian animals. It’s a relaxed experience where visitors can enjoy spending time with kangaroos in a naturalistic setting.

Picnic Areas: Lone Pine has several picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy their meals in a scenic, tranquil environment. The sanctuary is set in a picturesque location, surrounded by natural bushland, making it a peaceful spot for a break.

Gift Shop and Café: The sanctuary features a gift shop offering a range of koala-themed souvenirs, Australian wildlife products, and educational materials. There’s also a café where visitors can enjoy light meals, snacks, and beverages while taking in the park's natural surroundings.

5. Location and Accessibility

Location: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is situated in Fig Tree Pocket, which is about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from Brisbane’s city center. It’s located along the Brisbane River, making for a pleasant setting.

Public Transport: The sanctuary is accessible by public transport, with regular bus services from Brisbane’s city center to the sanctuary. It’s also reachable by ferry, with a pleasant ride along the Brisbane River from the city.

Parking: There is ample on-site parking for visitors, making it easy to drive to the sanctuary.

6. Family-Friendly Environment

Lone Pine is a family-friendly destination, and it provides an opportunity for children and adults alike to enjoy hands-on interactions with Australian wildlife. The sanctuary offers:

Play areas for children.

Special programs designed for school groups to learn about wildlife and conservation in an interactive setting.

Family-friendly amenities, including stroller and wheelchair access, as well as picnic facilities.

7. Opening Hours and Admission

Opening Hours: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is typically open every day of the year, with occasional closures for maintenance or holidays. Hours usually extend from the morning until late afternoon, making it an easy addition to a day trip around Brisbane.

Admission Fees: The sanctuary charges an admission fee, with different rates for adults, children, and families. They also offer various ticket packages, including discounts for groups, seniors, and residents. Annual passes are available for those who plan to visit multiple times.

Conclusion

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a must-visit for anyone interested in Australian wildlife and offers a hands-on, educational, and enjoyable experience. Whether you're interacting with the famous koalas, feeding kangaroos, or learning about Australia's diverse fauna, the sanctuary provides a memorable and meaningful encounter with some of the country's most iconic animals. Its commitment to conservation, education, and animal welfare makes it an important institution in the protection of Australia's natural heritage.