Holding a Koala. Photo by sporkist via Flickr
Travelers in Brisbane with an overwhelming urge to cuddle a koala only need to venture to the nearby Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Opened way back in 1927, this koala sanctuary happens to be the oldest of its kind in Australia, and also the largest with over 130 koalas on site. Located in the suburb of Fig Tree Pocket, visitors can arrive at the sanctuary in just a short 20 minute car ride from Brisbane city.
At the park, visitors are able to hold a koala while posing for a photo. Before you go worrying about these animals getting overworked, do know that there are strict rules in Australia that only allow a koala to be held no more than 30 minutes in a day. The rest of the time, you get to view these cute little marsupials (they are not bears) hanging out in the trees – often grabbing a snooze.
Besides koalas, and cute koala photos, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is home to over a hundred kangaroos, Australian birds, wombats, Tasmanian Devils, emus and cassowaries. One of the main attractions is being able to feed the animals; kangaroos can be fed and pet most of the day while lorikeets can be fed twice daily.
You cannot, however, feed the Tassie Devils. Even though they look adorable, these little guys are extremely aggressive. Leave the feeding to the experts and just enjoy the show instead.
Speaking of shows, another big hit at the sanctuary is the birds of prey show allowing visitors to get a closer look at the world of raptors.
The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is open every day of the year, but be sure to check the official website for opening hours on Christmas Day and Anzac Day.