Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane is a breathtaking gateway into Australia’s unique wildlife, offering visitors an unforgettable immersion into the world of koalas, kangaroos, and countless native species. As the oldest and largest koala sanctuary in the world, founded in 1927, Lone Pine is not only a cherished local landmark but also a global destination for animal lovers, conservationists, and families. Located just 12 kilometers from the city center, on the scenic banks of the Brisbane River, it blends natural beauty with interactive animal encounters and pioneering conservation work. Visitors can easily access the sanctuary via ferry through Mirimar Cruises, which enhances the experience with commentary-rich journeys along the river.
Walking through Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary’s 18 hectares of greenery, guests are welcomed by over 130 cuddly koalas, many of whom can be held and photographed under Queensland’s animal welfare regulations. These cuddle sessions, while heartwarming, also serve a higher purpose—helping to raise over AUD 600,000 annually for wildlife protection programs. In fact, Lone Pine collaborates with institutions such as RSPCA Queensland and Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital to improve koala genetics, habitat care, and medical treatment. The on-site wildlife hospital treats more than 1,200 animals every year, and public viewing galleries allow visitors to witness veterinary work up close.
Beyond koalas, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane boasts an open-range kangaroo reserve with over 150 Eastern Grey kangaroos. This walk-through experience lets you hand-feed and interact freely with the marsupials. The sanctuary also hosts a diverse collection of native animals including platypuses, wombats, emus, dingoes, and reptiles. Educational displays and daily talks by wildlife keepers make every visit meaningful, and Lone Pine’s curriculum-based school programs draw over 18,000 students annually. These programs are supported by institutions like Queensland Museum and Brisbane City Council’s Environment Centre, emphasizing its standing as a living classroom.
Families with children will appreciate the kid-friendly infrastructure such as the “Little Aussie Farm,” a mini-farm where youngsters can engage with sheep, pigs, goats, and chickens in a safe environment. The Brisbane Kids website regularly highlights Lone Pine as one of the best family day trips in Queensland. Nearby, shaded picnic areas and the Eco-Adventure Playground provide welcome rest stops. For food lovers, the riverside café inside the sanctuary serves up local delicacies using Queensland produce, with breathtaking views of the Brisbane River.
With over 400,000 annual visitors and more than 20,000 Instagram tags, the sanctuary has become a symbol of sustainable tourism in Brisbane. Its solar-powered facilities, recycled packaging, and eucalyptus plantation initiative are praised by organizations such as Sustainable Australia. Whether you’re cuddling a koala, feeding a kangaroo, or simply relaxing by the river, Lone Pine offers a rare blend of joy, education, and environmental responsibility in one of Australia’s most biodiverse urban settings.
Close Encounters with Australia’s Iconic Wildlife
Meet Over 130 Koalas in One Location
The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane is home to over 130 koalas, making it the largest and oldest koala sanctuary in the world. Established in 1927, this sanctuary offers guests a rare opportunity to observe and interact with these iconic marsupials up close. Visitors can witness different age groups of koalas, from joeys to mature adults, across beautifully maintained enclosures designed to replicate their natural habitat.
Feed Kangaroos in Open Ranges
Aside from koalas, guests at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane can freely walk among more than 150 kangaroos in a spacious, open setting. With over 5 acres dedicated to these animals, it is one of the largest kangaroo reserves in Queensland. The sanctuary allows visitors to hand-feed these gentle creatures using specially provided food, creating memorable interactions for tourists of all ages.
Get Close to Reptiles and Birds of Prey
The sanctuary houses over 70 species of Australian native animals, including snakes, lizards, and saltwater crocodiles. Reptile shows take place daily, allowing guests to learn about the species’ behaviors and conservation challenges. Birds of prey demonstrations are another highlight, showcasing falcons, owls, and eagles in mid-flight.
See Rare Platypuses in Action
A rare feature of the sanctuary is its platypus enclosure. Few places in the world offer such clear visibility of this elusive species. Equipped with underwater viewing tunnels and interactive displays, the area draws thousands of visitors annually who are eager to spot one of Australia’s most unique mammals.
Cuddle a Koala – Legally and Safely
Queensland law allows visitors to hold koalas under strict welfare conditions. Guests at Lone Pine can book a cuddle session, have their photo taken, and support conservation efforts. In 2023, over 45,000 koala encounters were recorded, generating funds for habitat restoration and veterinary care.
Koala Cuddles and Conservation Efforts
A Symbol of Queensland’s Wildlife Protection
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane is at the forefront of koala conservation. It partners with the Queensland government and international organizations to ensure the preservation of koala populations amid deforestation and urbanization. With over 80% of Queensland’s koala habitat lost since European settlement, sanctuaries like Lone Pine are critical.
How Koala Cuddles Fund Research
Each year, thousands of visitors pay for the experience of cuddling a koala. These sessions, regulated under the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001, generate significant funds—over AUD 600,000 annually—that go toward research, veterinary services, and eucalyptus plantation programs.
In-House Koala Hospital Facilities
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane features an advanced wildlife hospital that treats over 1,200 animals annually, with the majority being injured or sick koalas. The hospital is open to public viewing, allowing guests to observe treatments and better understand the medical challenges these animals face.
Koala Genetics and Breeding Programs
To preserve genetic diversity, the sanctuary runs a detailed koala breeding program that has successfully increased its population by 14% in the past five years. DNA mapping, vet supervision, and carefully controlled mating contribute to the overall health of the population.
Protecting Future Generations through Education
Lone Pine regularly hosts conservation talks and workshops for schools and the public. In 2022 alone, over 18,000 students participated in these programs. The curriculum includes habitat conservation, wildlife rescue methods, and environmental ethics, all tailored for different age groups.
Collaboration with International Conservationists
The sanctuary collaborates with wildlife organizations from Japan, Germany, and the U.S. to share research data and breeding strategies. This international cooperation strengthens the fight against koala population decline, which has seen numbers drop by 30% in the last two decades.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives Supporting Koalas
In 2023, the sanctuary installed solar panels that now power over 65% of its energy needs. Additionally, its eucalyptus plantation initiative ensures a consistent food supply for resident koalas and reduces the environmental impact of sourcing leaves from outside.
Family-Friendly Activities and Educational Programs
Interactive Animal Talks and Feeding Sessions
At Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane, daily feeding sessions for dingoes, wombats, and lorikeets are both fun and educational. With expert zookeepers explaining dietary habits and behavioral traits, children and adults gain real-time insights into Australia’s unique wildlife.
Hands-On Learning at the Mini-Farm
The sanctuary’s “Little Aussie Farm” invites young guests to pet and feed sheep, goats, chickens, and pigs. Designed as a safe space for early learners, it hosted over 45,000 visitors in 2023. It fosters an understanding of animal care and rural traditions in an immersive setting.
Junior Ranger Programs
Children aged 6–12 can participate in Lone Pine’s Junior Ranger program. This half-day experience includes behind-the-scenes tours, animal enrichment tasks, and conservation challenges. In 2022, more than 1,000 kids joined the program, many returning for multiple sessions.
Koala Keeper for a Day
Teens and adults can sign up for the “Keeper for a Day” program, which includes duties such as preparing food, cleaning enclosures, and shadowing wildlife vets. Participants also receive certification, making it popular among aspiring zoologists.
Daily Shows and Wildlife Demonstrations
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane offers more than 15 scheduled shows per day, including the famous sheepdog demonstrations and free-flight raptor shows. Each performance combines entertainment with ecological facts, engaging audiences of all ages.
School and Group Visits with Curriculum Links
Over 350 schools visited the sanctuary last year, benefitting from programs aligned with the Australian curriculum. Teachers receive pre-visit resources and tailored learning outcomes, ensuring every trip is both enjoyable and educational.
Eco-Adventure Playground and Riverside Picnic Zones
The sanctuary features a nature-themed playground and scenic riverside picnic areas that cater to families. With shaded tables, barbecues, and ample green space, parents can relax while children play safely in a supervised environment.
A Day in Nature on the Banks of the Brisbane River
Serene Riverside Walks and Lookouts
Located just 12 kilometers from Brisbane’s CBD, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane sits along the banks of the Brisbane River, offering peaceful trails and elevated lookouts. Visitors can spot native birds and reptiles while enjoying the lush surroundings.
Catch the Koala Express Ferry
A unique way to reach the sanctuary is via the Koala Express ferry from Brisbane’s South Bank. This scenic 70-minute journey, operated by Mirimar Cruises, brings over 30,000 tourists annually and offers informative commentary on river history and wildlife.
Sustainable Landscaping and Green Initiatives
The sanctuary’s landscape is filled with more than 6,000 native plants, supporting local biodiversity and acting as a carbon sink. Recycling stations, rainwater harvesting, and biodegradable packaging are standard on site, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.
Photography Spots and Instagram Moments
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane is a favorite among social media influencers. Koala cuddle stations, kangaroo feeding fields, and eucalyptus gardens provide scenic backdrops that generate over 20,000 tagged Instagram photos each year.
Café and Local Cuisine by the River
The Riverside Café within the sanctuary offers Queensland-inspired dishes using local produce. Seating overlooks the river, and popular menu items include barramundi wraps, vegan beet burgers, and lamingtons. The café serves over 500 meals per day during peak seasons.
Relaxation Zones and Wellness Areas
Shaded meditation benches and wellness zones with river views are ideal for relaxation. Guests often take a break here after touring the 18-hectare sanctuary, sipping locally brewed coffee while listening to birdsong and flowing water.
Bicycle Access and Walking Trails Nearby
Accessible by the Bicentennial Bikeway, the sanctuary encourages eco-friendly transportation. Visitors often bike from the CBD or take the nearby walking trails linking the sanctuary to Fig Tree Pocket and Indooroopilly, making it a hub for nature lovers.
