Sunshine Coast in Queensland is home to two popular zoos: Australia Zoo and Wildlife HQ. Both attractions showcase a diverse range of animals and offer unique experiences for visitors.
Australia Zoo, located an hour north of Brisbane on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, was founded by the late Steve Irwin and his wife Terri. Known for its conservation efforts and interactive wildlife encounters, the zoo houses over 1,200 animals, including those from the African Savannah, South-East Asia exhibit, and Bindi's Island. Visitors can engage in activities like cuddling a koala, feeding kangaroos, or walking a wombat. The zoo also features daily shows, animal encounters, and a visit to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, the busiest of its kind globally.
Wildlife HQ, reminiscent of Noah's Ark, saw its owner Julie Seabrook and her team relocate 200 animals from Alma Park Zoo to their new home. The zoo offers keeper talks where visitors can interact with keepers and learn about the animals. Wildlife HQ also provides a Zoo Keeper for a Day experience, allowing participants to have up close and personal encounters with the animals.
Both zoos deliver educational and entertaining experiences, introducing visitors to the diverse wildlife of Australia and beyond.