Brisbane: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Entry Ticket & Shows

Summary

Koalas up close, kangaroo feeding and local wildlife moments in Brisbane

You’ll get to hold a koala (if you want), feed kangaroos by hand, and catch keeper talks about everything from platypuses to crocs—all inside Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, just outside Brisbane. It’s one of those days where you feel both relaxed and quietly amazed by how close you can get to Australia’s wildlife.

What’s the experience like?

“You’re holding him like a rugby ball,” the keeper joked as I tried not to look too awkward with a sleepy koala tucked against my chest. The eucalyptus smell clung to my shirt for hours after—honestly, I didn’t mind. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is only about 20 minutes from central Brisbane, but it felt like we’d dropped into another world where magpies argue overhead and wallabies blink at you like they know your secrets.

I’d expected to just wander around, but our guide (I think her name was Mel?) pulled us into a group for a quick talk about platypus habits—she had this way of making even their weird duck-bill facts sound like gossip. There’s a saltwater crocodile exhibit now too. Watching that big guy glide past the underwater dome made me feel both safe and slightly nervous, which is probably how you’re supposed to feel near Australia’s largest reptile.

The real highlight for me was feeding kangaroos out in the open field—one nibbled straight from my palm while a kid nearby shrieked when hers licked her fingers. It was muddy in spots (rained the night before), so my shoes paid the price, but honestly? Worth it. We ended up sitting under a gum tree with an ice cream, just watching lorikeets dive-bomb each other over scraps. I still think about that quiet moment before heading back into city noise.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

• Arrive at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
• See over 100 koalas
• Attend keeper talks and shows
• Take daily photo opportunities
• Feed free-range kangaroos
• Visit saltwater crocodile exhibit
• Explore underwater viewing dome

Top questions

How far is Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary from Brisbane CBD?

It’s just minutes away—about 20 minutes by car or public transport from central Brisbane.

Is there wheelchair access at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary?

Most areas are accessible but some natural terrain may be uneven; check their interactive map before visiting.

Are daily shows and animal presentations included with entry?

Yes, your entry ticket includes access to all daily shows and presentations at the sanctuary.

Can I feed kangaroos at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary?

Yes, there are free-range areas where visitors can hand-feed kangaroos during their visit.

What animals can I see besides koalas?

You’ll see over 70 native Australian species including platypuses, crocodiles, wallabies, and birds.

Is it possible to visit on Christmas Day?

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is open on Christmas Day from 9am-3pm.

Are service animals allowed inside?

Yes, service animals are allowed—just email ahead to make arrangements with staff.

What’s included

Your day includes full entry to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary with access to all daily wildlife shows and presentations; you can also hand-feed kangaroos and explore exhibits at your own pace before heading back into Brisbane whenever you’re ready.