Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in the Brisbane suburb of Fig Tree Pocket has been around since I was a kid. In fact, it’s been around since my grandparents were kids! I remember growing up in Brisbane and visiting every summer, either with family or in a group of friends. Back then it was wonderfully magical to wander through groups of kangaroos and be able to pet koalas. Recently, whilst visiting family in Brisbane I decided to take my partner to Lone Pine, and wondered if it had changed much, and if the magic was still there. Spoiler alert! It was, and today I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know in my Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary review and guide.
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About Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Way back in the early 1900’s, Koala’s were swiftly becoming endangered due to the fur trade. Poachers were killing them in droves and selling their skins, mostly overseas where they marketed them as beaver skins. Demand was high due to their unique durability and waterproof properties. Between the years 1888 and 1927 it is estimated that over 8 million Koalas were slaughtered.
The year 1927 was big for the industry, with the Queensland Government responsible for greenlighting the slaughter of between 600,000 and 800,000 koalas in the single month of August. This became known as Black August and was devastating for the local koala population. It wasn’t all bad news however, with 1927 also the year that the United States outlawed the import of koala skins, which seriously hampered the fur industry in Australia.
1927 was also the year that things turned around for koala, as it was the year that local Queenslander Claude Reid decided something needed to be done to conserve the koala species. He opened Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary with just two koala’s, Jack and Jill. Today, Lone Pine has over 100 resident koalas and has been named in the Guiness Book of World Records as being the world’s first and largest Koala sanctuary.
What to Expect
Most of my memories of Lone Pine come from when I was very young and mostly revolve around experiences with the animals. I remember being blown away by how close you could get to the koalas, kangaroos and other wildlife. As an Australian growing up, we naturally saw kangaroos everywhere, but in the wild you would never normally approach them as they’d shy away. Koalas, on the other hand, you hardly EVER saw in the wild, so it was an amazing experience to be able to see them all in a place that we could interact with them up close.
After my trip back to Lone Pine recently, other than upgraded facilities and a lot more wildlife on offer, nothing much had changed. I still found it magical, and being able to enjoy it through the eyes of someone (my partner Jo) who didn’t grow up in Australia was amazing.
A trip to Lone Pine doesn’t even begin at the entry. I believe it begins with the drive. Turning off the motorway and taking the road down to Fig Tree Pocket allows you to wind past towering Eucalypts and through a suburb that makes you feel like you’re a million miles away from the inner suburbs of Brisbane. Arrival at Lone Pine only enhances the illusion, and the well laid out, almost sprawling carpark welcomes you with plenty of available spaces featuring ample shade on a hot summer’s day.
The Entrance to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
The gateway to Lone Pine lies quaintly hidden amongst the trees, with the massive single pine tree announcing the entrance as it has for the past century. At the head of the path is an automatic ticket booth where you can purchase your ticket before you approach the gates. The large touch screens are similar to what are utilized at McDonalds to place your order, so are easy and familiar to use. I personally suggest purchasing your tickets online in advance, as on crowded days you can fast track your entrance and not risk the disappointment of missing out.
To one side of the entrance is the quaint little Riverside Cafe, and right out front of the entrance is the bus stop. Everything is very well laid out, and getting into the park is swift and easy.
A small path leads down to the entrance where several smiling staff are waiting. If you’ve purchased tickets in advance, getting in is as simple as giving your name, watching them tick it off on their iPad and give you friendly directions of which way to head. It’s as simple as that. If you arrive on a busy day, then you’ll line up in the cool shade of the surrounding trees, unlike other major attractions that have you lined up for hours in the sun!
Upon entry, you’ll immediately have the choice to turn right or left. To the left is the back path to the nocturnal animals such as wombats, echidnas and small marsupials out at the back of the zoo. This also runs right past The Barn area and locations of the Free Flight Raptor Show and Sheepdog Show. To the right is the koalas, kangaroos and pretty much everything that you came to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to see. The majority of people will turn right!
Platypus, Tasmanian Devil and Koalas
Immediately, you’ll see some large aviaries housing typical Australian birds such as Cockatoos and Galahs. Keeping to the high path will take you past all of the aviaries and at the end, the Platypus house. Here, inside a cool, dark and air-conditioned room are two large tanks of water set into the wall for easy viewing of what’s happening underwater. The platypus is an elusive animal though, so you may need a good amount of patience and detective skills to figure out where he’s hiding.
Beside the Platypus house is the Brisbane Koala Science Institute. This is another air-conditioned building that allows you to have a peek into the welfare of the koalas, with a single window into the medical room complete with a veterinary table, medical supplies and equipment. The walk-through room that you enter has some nice places to sit and rest while reading a myriad of koala facts that are written across the walls.
Outside once again, don’t miss the enclosure for the Tasmanian devil. This little character was busy getting his daily step count when we were there and spent the entire time running and loping around between his three open topped enclosures. Every now and then he’d stop to look at us, before heading off in another direction on some mystery mission that only he knew about.
Directly below, and seemingly everywhere you look after leaving the Tasmanian Devil enclosure are koalas. I mean, they are everywhere!
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary has over 100 koalas and once you see how many koala enclosures there are, you won’t have troubles believing it. Most of these enclosures have around six to eight “trees” adorned with fresh eucalypt branches and half a dozen or so koalas in each. Most are rather easy to see, and even if they’re asleep or hiding behind leaves eating, it’s still easy to see them and have that “up close and personal” feeling.
Past the first lot of enclosures, you’ll come to a large open aired shed that is immediately apparent has been dedicated to the Koala experience. A sign that advertises Koala Moments stands in front of a short queuing area leading to two koalas sitting in trees with staff members beside each. Guests here are able to get even closer and more personal experiences with Australia’s favorite icon. (See below for more about Koala Moments)
Beside this shed you’ll find another large building that is the main cafe, sitting and eating area, and souvenir store. It’s also here that you can book experiences and buy food to feed the kangaroos.
Feeding Kangaroos
Although the koalas are the main attraction at Lone Pine, the kangaroos come a close second. The reason for this is the outstanding free-range area that they are housed in, allowing guests to have the experience of wandering around amongst them at their leisure. This may not be exactly as it would be out in the wild, but it’s a close second and certainly the closest the majority of visitors would ever get, and definitely in the middle of Brisbane.
The kangaroos at Lone Pine are all very tame. They’ll sit and lay around, if not completely oblivious to the people wandering around, they are certainly very nonchalant about it. Feeding them is easy as they are almost expecting it, and early in the day will actually be waiting. Later in the morning and into the afternoon, particularly on hot days, they’ll be more likely to be seeking a spot in the shade to stretch out and have a kip on the cool ground with full stomachs.
Beyond the kangaroo paddock, there is a nice little raised boardwalk that rises up and over several pits that can be looked down upon. In these you’ll find dingos, crocodiles, a few turtles and a cassowary. At the beginning of the boardwalk, off to the left don’t miss the beautiful wedge tailed eagle, that will also make an appearance later at the free flight raptor show.
Another thing to take note of is in the crocodile pit there is a glass bubble that allows guests to come right into the crocodile pool and view him from under the water. This is accessed via a small tunnel from the other side and is a wonderful experience, particularly for younger visitors. Even so, this isn’t exactly the best crocodile enclosure that I’ve seen, but one has to keep in mind that Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is about the koalas first and foremost. For the best crocodiles, head to Australia Zoo where they are the main attraction and it’s everything else that takes a backseat.
Around the other side of the crocodile pit, you’ll emerge into an area that is used later in the day for the bird feeding. Off to one side are a set of gates that will take you into the paddocks and open area where The Barn is located. This is a great little area reminiscent of a petting zoo, and understandably is popular with young children. The Barn houses sheep, chickens and guinea pigs. Taking a wander out the back, you’ll find more chickens free ranging, pigs, goats and donkeys.
The Barn, Sheepdog Show and Free Flight Raptor Show
Continuing on past The Barn area is the location for the sheepdog show. This is a quick little show that gives the opportunity for a beautiful little Australian Kelpie to showcase her skills at rounding up and driving sheep with the help of one of the staff members. Together they seem to have the small herd on a string and is a real eye opener and learning experience for anyone that has never lived on a farm and seen such skills firsthand.
Out back of the sheepdog yard is an area of Lone Pine known as the nocturnal area. Here, you’ll find a myriad of little marsupials, wombats, echidnas and a tree kangaroo. Although these are delightful native animals, the fact that they are nocturnal means you may require some honed detective skills to actually spy the creatures!
Last but certainly not least is the Free Flight Raptor show. This is located in the large open area back near The Barn, where a nicely laid out, sheltered sitting area is available facing a small grassy area. Here, two handlers give a marvelous talk about several of the lesser-known birds at Lone Pine and do so in such a way that you’ll want to go back a second time. I know I did!
These birds include the Barn Owl, Barking Owl, Wedge Tailed Eagle, Peregrine Falcon, Kites and even a Sea Eagle. The birds involved can change between shows, so to see different ones I’d recommend attending both shows if you have time. As well as a talk about each species which is extremely educational, the birds all put on incredible shows of dexterity and flying skills. The Falcon can be seen swooping in large arcs out and around the paddock as she chases a lure that one of the staff is swinging around, before doing fly by’s close over the heads of the stunned spectators. Likewise, the owls show off why they are such swift, silent and deadly hunters, swooping over and through their audience at the prompting of their handlers.
My most recent visit to the zoo was to see the koalas and feed the kangaroos, however I came away simply raving about the free flight raptor show. Don’t miss it! After the show, staff will take a couple of the birds out the back of the show area where you can see them up close and ask questions. For a small fee you can get even closer by putting on the handler’s glove and holding the bird yourself to pose for photos. It’s not every day you get to hold a live eagle!
From this area it’s easy to exit across a boardwalk that takes you directly through a well-stocked souvenir shop and back to the carpark area. Take the time to finish the day having a cold drink or coffee at the Riverside Cafe that features beautiful views out and down the Brisbane River from the sitting area under the trees.
Koala Experiences
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, as would be expected, is all about the koalas. To this end, they have tailored Koala Experiences available for guests to choose from in order to get their very own “up close and personal” Koality time!
NOTE – As of July 2024 the ability to hold koalas and pose for photos ceased at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
These come in four forms:
- Koala Moments – from AUD35 per person: These moments are very popular with visitors, particularly families or those on a budget. A Koala moment allows you one on one time with a koala, getting around one minute to meet and pet a koala sitting in a tree and ask a couple of questions from staff before posing for a photo or two. Note that there is no professional photo taken and you will have to have your own camera or smart phone handy and someone to take your photo. Staff may be able to assist if you are alone or want a group photo. They are very friendly and will assist if you ask nicely.
- Koala Close Up – from AUD39 per person: A koala close up lasts around 15 minutes and allows you not only to meet and pet a koala but learn all about them and watch as they eat and relax in the tree. If you’re lucky you may even have the opportunity to feed them! This experience is more private and intimate than a koala moment and allows you the time to learn more about them and ask questions. Groups can be up to 6 people but note that each person must hold their own ticket. Once again photos are not included and will have to be taken on your own devices.
- Koala Discovery Tour AUD150 per person: This experience option is all about getting more behind the scenes at Lone Pine. Lasting 60 minutes, you’ll learn how the koala’s food is selected and prepared, and you’ll have exclusive access to one of the koala facilities for your up close and personal experience. Receive a high-quality photo and koala pin as souvenirs to take home and keep.
- Platinum Tour AUD599 per person: The ultimate behind the scenes experience! This tour includes entry fee to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, behind the scenes access to the Platypus house, numerous Koala experiences, reserve seating at the free flight raptor show and a private encounter with the birds, a private dingo experience, feeding kangaroos, lunch included with river views and a morning snack amongst the koalas. If you really want to spoil yourself and see and experience everything that the park has to offer, you can’t go past the Platinum Tour.
Note that other than the Platinum Tour, none of the experiences include entry to Lone Pine and a day pass will be required to enter the park.
Several other tours are available, including an After Dark experience to see the nocturnal animals, and a Platypus Behind the Scenes. Check them out at THIS link.
Show Times and Schedule
Throughout the day there are many free shows that anyone with a day pass can attend. These are staggered nicely and allow guests plenty of time to move between them. If you miss the morning shows, then there’s no need to worry as several of them are repeated later in the day. In the case of the Free Flight Raptor show it may even differ depending on which birds are chosen to make an appearance.
Here is the current schedule, but this may change on a daily basis depending on the animals and other conditions. The latest and up to date show times can always be found online at THIS link, or out front of the General Store where you can buy the kangaroo food, located opposite Koala Moments.
- Free Range Kangaroo Feeding – 9am to 4:30pm
- Wild Lorikeet Feeding – 9:45am
- Koala Moments – 10am – 12:30pm
- Free Flight Raptor Show – 10:30am
- Sheepdog Show – 11am
- Koala Talk – 11:30am
- Croc Talk – 12pm
- Free Flight Raptor Show – 1pm
- Sheepdog Show – 1:30pm
- Dingo Talk – 2:45pm
- Koala Moments – 2pm – 3:45pm
- Wild Lorikeet Feeding 3:45pm
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Map
Lone Pine offers an online map that is easily scanned for use on your smartphone. While there are links around the park at the entrance, I’ve supplied a copy of the QR code below so you can get it in advance.
Around the park there is also plenty of easy signage meaning you will never get lost!
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Tickets and Prices
Ticket prices to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary are:
Adult (18+ years) – AUD59
Child (3 – 13 years) AUD42
Student (14 – 17 years with valid ID) – AUD47
Family (2 adults and up to 3 children) – AUD180
Mini Family (1 adult and up to 3 children) – AUD124
Senior/Pensioner (65+ with valid ID) – AUD47
How to get to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
The best way to get to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is by car as there is plenty of car parking available free of charge. Located on Jesmond Road at Fig Tree Pocket, simply turn off the M5 onto Fig Tree Pocket Road and follow the signs. Click HERE for a google maps reference.
For those relying on public transport, there is a bus stop right outside the entrance to the park. Catch bus 430 from Ann Street stop 7 or 11 in Brisbane city, or bus 445 from Wickham Terrace. The trip to Lone Pine takes about 40 minutes.
Tips and Hints
There are several ways to get the most out of your trip to Lone Pine, and a few things to avoid. Here are my top tips to make sure you enjoy your day a little more.
- Arrive early in the morning. If you can get there at 9am then make sure you do. The Kangaroos are hungry then and getting in to feed them early means having the best opportunity. Later in the day they are guaranteed to be asleep.
- Visit the Platypus house around feeding time at 2:30pm for the best chance to actually see him. He hides most other times of the day.
- To get a break from the heat, head to the platypus house or the Brisbane Koala Science Institute where you can sit for a few minutes in the air conditioning. Alternatively, outside the main cafe area there are cooling fans above the tables.
- Book ahead for your Koala Experiences. Koala Moments are usually ok on the day (although I’d book ahead as well) but many of the other experiences are booked out in advance even during quiet times.
- Visit out of school and public holidays to miss the crowds. Being close to Brisbane means it can get very crowded!
- Bring your own snack and definitely water. While these are available in the park, you’ll save money bringing your own and not have to line up on a busy day.
- Check the schedule to make sure you don’t miss out on the shows you want to see!
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Opening Hours
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is open daily Mon – Sun from 9am to 5pm.
Can I do a Tour?
Yes you can!
The most popular way to visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary as part of a tour is on Mirimar River Cruises. These cruises have been visiting the park since 1934 and are still as popular today as they ever were. Take a 75-minute scenic trip down the river, stopping at Lone Pine for a few hours before heading back again. You can book your tour at THIS link.
You can also visit Lone Pine as part of a Brisbane tour which is a good option for those that want to see the highlights of the city and are on limited time. Check it out at THIS link.
Other Things to do nearby
While Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is located in the inner suburbs of Brisbane, there are other things to do to fill in your day or even just top it off. Try one of these on for size:
- Visit nearby Mount Coot-tha. Views of the city from the lookout at the cafe on top of the mountain are amazing. Head there after a day at Lone Pine and watch as dusk falls over the city. Alternatively, if you still have energy, Mount Coot-tha has some great hiking trails and a couple of nice waterfalls if the weather is right.
- Visit the DFO (Duty Free Outlet) at Jindalee – For some great bargains, the DFO is only a short drive away across the river.
- Check out Sherwood Arboretum – This beautiful parkland celebrated its 100th birthday in 2025. Enjoy a stroll under the trees or along the riverside walk or simply relax on the grass and have a picnic. Located right across the river from Lone Pine, it takes only 15 minutes to reach by car.
- Don’t forget the Riverside Cafe right out front of Lone Pine where you can enjoy a cold drink, coffee or snack at the end of the day with river views.
Hotels near Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
While there aren’t many places to stay near Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, that doesn’t mean there aren’t options!
Probably the best thing to do is to stay in the city. The Sanctuary is easy to reach from Brisbane city by bus or Mirimar Cruises, and if you have a car the drive is easy (See above). For visitors, staying in the city is a no brainer!
Check out my Complete Guide to Brisbane for the best accommodation options.
Summary
Lone Pine Koala Sanctury is an amazing place to visit for anyone wanted to get up close and personal with koalas. For international visitors it’s an absolute treat. Having grown up right near Lone Pine, I can honestly say that it only gets better with age and rivals a lot of the larger zoos when it comes to experiences.
