How to maximise your time at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane

Say g’day to the world’s first and largest koala-focused sanctuary, Lone Pine - a place built in 1927 as a safe refuge for sick, injured, and orphaned koalas sitting conveniently close to Brisbane’s CBD, just down the river.

You'll find plenty of ways to spend your time - it’s not just koalas you’ll be able to meet, but a motley crew of native Australian animals to meet with more than 70 species present. We’ve compiled the following guide to show you just how to make the most of your Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary experience.

All aboard

First things first - how do you get there? Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary sits in Fig Tree Pocket, down the river (quite literally) from Brisbane’s City centre.

One of the easiest options when it comes to making your way to this animal haven is by boat. The Mirimar boat cruise departs from the Culture Centre Pontoon at South Bank daily. This 75-minute cruise will pick you up and drop you off, cruising you along the famous Brisbane River as you take in historical buildings, iconic landmarks and much-loved natural landmarks.

Grab a feed

Lunch is calling and where better to curb your hunger pangs than with a visit to the recently renovated Lone Pine Riverside Cafe. Sit back and relax at this casual venue where you can grab an array of tasty sandwiches and salads to fuel you for an afternoon’s exploration of Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. While you are refuelling your body, you can recharge your phone, utilising the collection of charging stations, blogger’s corners and free WiFi made available to all guests, making sure you stay connected at all times.

Greet the neighbours

Stroll the collection of exhibitions, taking a gander at the array of Australian wildlife that call this place home. More recent arrivals include a duo of Tasmanian Devils transported from Monarto Zoo in Adelaide. And then there’s the cassowary, which has been given a brand new exhibit to show off. Not to mention a population of platypus, dingoes, echidnas, and kangaroos among more.

See a show

Gather the kids for an afternoon’s entertainment at one of the many shows hosted by Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary - get comfortable on the brand new seating, and prepare to be amazed by a medley of animal performances. The Sheep Dog Show is one of the most popular offerings - taking place from 11.00am daily, you’ll watch a traditional working kelpie herd livestock and showcase its sheer agility in a series of challenges.

Get an education

Your time at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary doesn’t just include a meet and greet with animals, but a chance to really get to know them better. You can learn more about the world of koala science and research with a trip to the Brisbane Koala Science Institute. Access is a part of the entry fee - drop by between 9.00am to 5.00pm to learn the most recent findings of a team of scientists devoted to koala conservation. Or choose to be more hands-on with a role as a wildlife volunteer, assisting the team of keepers in day to day (but important) tasks.

Don’t forget your souvenir

Before you depart and make your way back to Brisbane CBD, make a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary gift store. Among a treasure trove of koala-themed accoutrements you can bestow upon your friends and family, you’ll find plenty of delightful creations from local businesses, including the likes of Poppy & Daisy, who create popular flower press kits.

The best gift of all? An animal to call your own - Lone Pine offers a chance to sponsor one of the animals at the sanctuary. Your donation will help provide essential veterinary care, dietary and exhibition maintenance and contribute to research and conservation efforts.