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Theme park · Beerwah, Queensland
Australia Zoo
Zoo founded in 1970 by the Irwin family in Beerwah, with Australian animals, an African savanna, tigers, shows in the 5,000-seat Crocoseum and a wildlife hospital.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Australia Zoo
Australia Zoo was founded on June 3, 1970, as Beerwah Reptile and Fauna Park, opened by Bob and Lyn Irwin. Their son, Steve Irwin, took over the park in 1991 with his wife, Terri, and became world-famous for his crocodile TV programs. The name Australia Zoo was adopted in the 1990s. The family remains involved with the zoo.
The publicly accessible area covers 45 hectares, within a larger property of native bushland. There are Australian animal areas with koalas, kangaroos, wombats, cassowaries and reptiles; the African Safari, a savanna with giraffes, zebras and rhinoceroses; the Sumatran tiger enclosure, inspired by Angkor Wat; and Bindi's Island, a three-storey treehouse with lemurs. The wildlife hospital treats injured native animals.
The highlight is the show in the Crocoseum, a 5,000-seat arena, featuring crocodiles, birds in flight and other animals. Throughout the day, keepers run demonstrations and animal encounters, some of which require an additional fee.
The zoo is suitable for all ages and requires a full day. Entry is paid; check the current price list. Buy tickets in advance online during school holidays.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A full day.
Best time
Arrive at opening to see the Crocoseum show, which usually takes place late morning, at a relaxed pace. Weekdays outside school holidays are less busy.
How to get there
By train from Brisbane to Beerwah station and then a shuttle to the zoo, or by car, about 1 hour from Brisbane via the Bruce Highway, with on-site parking.
Tip
Check the schedule of shows and animal encounters at the entrance and plan your route around them. Bring a hat and water: much of the route is in the sun.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Australia Zoo
How long does a visit to Australia Zoo take?
A full day, including the Crocoseum show and the Australian and African animal areas.
How do you get to Australia Zoo without a car?
By train from Brisbane to Beerwah station, in about 1 hour, and then by shuttle to the zoo.
Is Australia Zoo good for very young children?
Yes. Paths are level, there are rest areas and short shows throughout the day.
Who founded Australia Zoo?
Bob and Lyn Irwin, in 1970, as a reptile and fauna park. Their son, Steve Irwin, took charge of the park in 1991.