[AU; 2024] Brisbane - Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary \ The Star Brisbane \ Southbank Parklands

G'day and back to Brisbane again! And managed to squeeze out some time do so some sightseeing!

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Probably the cutest place on earth:

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
https://maps.app.goo.gl/RDFdr5MLnD3y2p8N8

Bought the tickets on a third-party site as it is cheaper compared to the official website or walk-in! You can either head there by bus, uber or a ferry. This trip I did uber, it took less than 25 minutes to arrive.

I have been to Lone Pine like 25 years ago... so I don't recall much about the place, just remembered my dad was hugging a Koala and we took family photo. So was nice to see the place being a bit newer - at least it didn't trigger any 25 years ago memory.

All the koalas were living a good life with so much food and care:

You cannot hug a koala anymore, but you can touch and pat them. Which was quite a nice experience as the staff was very knowledgeable and shared a lot of small stories.

There was a sheep / dog show which was for kids:

I would say the sanctuary doesn't have much stuffs - there was a slightly new area where they feature more animals in like a forestry concept, but couldn't see any animals around. Rather disappointing.

They have rather nice merchandises, which I ended up buying quite a bit:

I would say this is really a once in a lifetime experience - I'm lucky that I did it twice, and probably will not go for third time. Koalas are cute, period.

The Star Brisbane

The Star Brisbane

https://maps.app.goo.gl/CHqTFFPzDDGZqJjm6

There is a free sky deck access where you can get a good view of Brisbane river! Just follow the signage around the building.

I was there after a heavy rain, so the river was very full.

And gloomy too:

But it was a nice free activity and the lift going to the deck can be quite busy and crowded! I managed to head to The Star again at night and it was a totally different vibe!

Southbank Parklands

I went to the Parklands once and I really liked the vibe and etc. I did a Southbank walk guide previously if you're interested to explore the area more: https://ohhtravel.blogspot.com/2022/07/au-brisbane-city-south-bank-walking.html

The must take Brisbane signage!

These 3 locations could easily be a half day tour around Brisbane - hopefully it comes along handy!