Koala-ty shift: Iconic sanctuary embraces new experience as it says goodbye to hands-on tradition
- Replies 12
In a significant shift for one of Australia's renowned wildlife sanctuaries, a popular attraction is bidding farewell to a cherished experience.
From international superstars to political figures—all eager for a photo-op with a quintessential Aussie animal—this sanctuary has been a magnet for visitors for decades.
This change marks a new chapter for the sanctuary, impacting visitors and its iconic inhabitants' preservation efforts.
The cherished tradition of holding a koala at Brisbane's Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary has come to an end, marking a significant shift in wildlife experiences and conservation efforts.
Celebrities like Taylor Swift, Manny Pacquiao, Roger Federer, Maria Sharapova, Naomi Osaka, and even the spouses of world leaders have visited the animal sanctuary in Fig Tree Pocket, inner west, where they had the opportunity to hold koalas.
However, Lone Pine management ceased the practice of allowing visitors to hold koalas starting Monday, July 1, citing a ‘shift’ in visitor preferences from observing the animals in their natural habitat to desiring hands-on interactions.
‘We love that there is a shift among both local and international guests to experience Australian wildlife up close,’ Lone Pine's General Manager, Lyndon Discombe, stated.
‘We have absolutely seen an increase in demand for educational programs and guided experiences, focusing on the ability to witness the natural behaviours of koalas.’
Discombe expressed hope that guests would ‘love and respect them even more’ when observing them ‘in their wonderful natural state’.
Instead of the previous koala-holding experience, the sanctuary will introduce a new activity named ‘Koala Close-Up’, emphasising ‘meaningful connections and extended time in the presence of the sanctuary’s beautiful koalas’.
This move has been applauded by the Zoo and Aquarium Association of Australia, which recognises the positive impact on the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of the koalas.
The koala-holding photo opportunity was a regular feature at promotional events for the Brisbane International tennis tournament in the past.
Taylor Swift held a koala during her visit in 2009, and famous guitarist Slash also did so during his tour in 2012.
At the G20 World Leaders’ Summit in 2014, Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Iriana Joko Widodo, wife of Indonesian President Joko Widodo, were among those who participated in the koala-holding experience at the sanctuary.
As Brisbane's Lone Pine Sanctuary bids farewell to its beloved koala-holding experience, reflecting a shift in visitor preferences toward more immersive and respectful encounters with wildlife, the broader narrative of Australia's relationship with koalas takes centre stage.
Once hunted in alarming numbers, koalas have evolved into cherished symbols of Australia's unique biodiversity.
This transformation underscores a growing awareness and conservation efforts aimed at safeguarding these iconic ‘teddy bears’ of the Australian bush.
Have you ever held a koala, and how do you feel about this change? Share your thoughts and memories of Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary with us.
From international superstars to political figures—all eager for a photo-op with a quintessential Aussie animal—this sanctuary has been a magnet for visitors for decades.
This change marks a new chapter for the sanctuary, impacting visitors and its iconic inhabitants' preservation efforts.
The cherished tradition of holding a koala at Brisbane's Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary has come to an end, marking a significant shift in wildlife experiences and conservation efforts.
Celebrities like Taylor Swift, Manny Pacquiao, Roger Federer, Maria Sharapova, Naomi Osaka, and even the spouses of world leaders have visited the animal sanctuary in Fig Tree Pocket, inner west, where they had the opportunity to hold koalas.
However, Lone Pine management ceased the practice of allowing visitors to hold koalas starting Monday, July 1, citing a ‘shift’ in visitor preferences from observing the animals in their natural habitat to desiring hands-on interactions.
Brisbane's Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary discontinued its koala-holding experience, previously favoured by celebrities and dignitaries. Credit: Instagram / Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
‘We love that there is a shift among both local and international guests to experience Australian wildlife up close,’ Lone Pine's General Manager, Lyndon Discombe, stated.
‘We have absolutely seen an increase in demand for educational programs and guided experiences, focusing on the ability to witness the natural behaviours of koalas.’
Discombe expressed hope that guests would ‘love and respect them even more’ when observing them ‘in their wonderful natural state’.
Instead of the previous koala-holding experience, the sanctuary will introduce a new activity named ‘Koala Close-Up’, emphasising ‘meaningful connections and extended time in the presence of the sanctuary’s beautiful koalas’.
This move has been applauded by the Zoo and Aquarium Association of Australia, which recognises the positive impact on the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of the koalas.
The koala-holding photo opportunity was a regular feature at promotional events for the Brisbane International tennis tournament in the past.
Taylor Swift held a koala during her visit in 2009, and famous guitarist Slash also did so during his tour in 2012.
At the G20 World Leaders’ Summit in 2014, Peng Liyuan, wife of Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Iriana Joko Widodo, wife of Indonesian President Joko Widodo, were among those who participated in the koala-holding experience at the sanctuary.
As Brisbane's Lone Pine Sanctuary bids farewell to its beloved koala-holding experience, reflecting a shift in visitor preferences toward more immersive and respectful encounters with wildlife, the broader narrative of Australia's relationship with koalas takes centre stage.
Once hunted in alarming numbers, koalas have evolved into cherished symbols of Australia's unique biodiversity.
This transformation underscores a growing awareness and conservation efforts aimed at safeguarding these iconic ‘teddy bears’ of the Australian bush.
Last edited:
.png){kind=icon}
