Koala Bear Sanctuary

WHAT IS IT:   The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a special place which offers a wonderful opportunity to get close to several of Australia’s unusual animals in a rural location close to Brisbane.   The sanctuary has kangaroos, reptiles, dingoes, Tasmanian devils, and other wildlife to view and feed. But the star attraction is the more than 100 koala bears that are lovingly displayed.

In addition to being cute, you can watch the koalas cling to eucalyptus trees by using their long claws to sleep on a tree or chew the succulent leaves. There are interesting lectures about the habits and behavior of the koalas too.  Many guests purchase optional tickets to meet a koala personally and have their picture taken holding one.

The kangaroos are scattered around the site where they are comfortable laying under the trees or chewing on grass. When you see them together hanging out on a hot day, they do not hop around much. Instead, it is surprising how much they resemble a pack of dear eating the bushes in your front year.  They will also freeze in place and stare at people before sauntering off.

INTERESTING FACTS:  A group or deer is known as a “troop” or a “mob” and they are still found in large numbers around Australia. In fact, there are twice as many roos as people in Australia. The koalas are doing okay too but the tall eucalyptus forests and low woodlands areas they enjoy in Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia have been encroached upon by development and climate conditions.

WHEN TO GO:  Australia is down under so its seasons are the reverse of the northern hemisphere. Brisbane is located on the coast several hundred miles north of Sydney and boasts a pleasant climate with temperatures of 70 degrees or higher throughout the year. During the summer months of November to February, there is more rain and heavy outbursts can occur.                         

HOW TO GET THERE:  Qantas, Virgin Australia, American and Hawaiian offer direct flights to Brisbane’s international airport from limited cities in the United States like Los Angeles, Honolulu, and Chicago. Other major airlines including British Airways, Singapore Airlines and Emirates also fly directly to Brisbane from international hubs. Once in Brisbane, the Sanctuary can be reached by car or taxi from downtown Brisbane. For a relaxing and enjoyable experience, you can take a pleasant ferry ride from the dock near the ferris wheel on the South Bank of the Brisbane River which goes through the suburbs out to the attraction.