When visiting the Gold Coast, we didn’t want to fork out $50 or more for 10-minutes with a Koala, so we opted to checkout Queenslands free Koala Sanctuary at Daisy Hill, a 5-minute drive off the M1 at Logan. The sanctuary is located in a conservation park, with plenty of things to explore with the family on a warm Gold Coast day.
The Daisy Hill Koala Centre is a centre dedicated to treating and nursing back to health injured Koala’s while educating the public on how we can contribute to protecting Koala’s, ensuring their survival in modern days.
A cute, furry and iconic marsupial to Australia, these little guys have been under threat from deforestation and land development as cities and urban centres sprawl. Once almost hunted to extinction (as late as the 1960’s), Koala’s are a unique and often misunderstood native animal to Australia.
Daisy Hill Centre is a free attraction, that gives close up observation opportunities of Koala’s. Built within a conservation park, the Centre has two viewing decks, a small theatre where they play educational films and immersive learning exhibits about Koala’s and other native animals in the local area and state.
This is the perfect outing for the whole family and best of all, is free.
The best part about Daisy Hill Koala Centre is that it’s located inside the Daisy Hill Conservation Park, a massive reserve that offers so much more than just a quick animal encounter.
There are:
We saw heaps of local families making a full day of it — sausages sizzling on the BBQ, kids running around barefoot, and bikes zipping down the tracks. The horse riding school wasn’t open during our visit, but you can check opening hours and details on their official page here.
If your little ones are begging for something to climb on, swing on or run around in with no shoes, then don’t worry there is a pretty cool park just down the road from Daisy Hill.
Daisy Hill is great for a couple hours, but in the end kids will be kids and even though they loved the furry tree bears – they still asked for a playground. Lucky for them, one of the coolest playgrounds was minutes from Daisy Hill.
If your little ones are asking, “Can we go to a playground now?” after their dose of tree-dwelling marsupials — don’t worry, there’s a great one just minutes down the road!
This isn’t just any old playground. FUNderwood Hollow is a vibrant space made up of three themed playgrounds, with:
There’s heaps of parking, shaded picnic tables, and even a BMX park next door if your family loves bikes. It’s the perfect add-on stop to burn off the last bit of energy before heading home.
We visited in winter (still warm!), so we missed magpie season — but if you’re heading there during spring or summer, be magpie-aware. On the upside, you might be lucky enough to spot a Kookaburra in the old gum tree, just like we did!
Daisy Hill Koala Centre is a hidden gem just a short drive from the Gold Coast. Whether you’re looking for a cheap and cheerful day out, or simply want to show your kids some native Aussie wildlife in a more ethical and educational setting, this spot ticks all the boxes.
It’s also ideal for a half-day itinerary — pair it with a BBQ lunch, bush walk, or playground visit, and you’ve got a full and memorable day the whole family will love.
If you’re interested in checking out more recommendations on the sunny Gold Coast, have a look here.
Is Daisy Hill Koala Centre free to enter?
Yes! The Daisy Hill Koala Centre is completely free to visit, making it a fantastic budget-friendly activity for families and tourists alike.
Where is Daisy Hill Koala Centre located?
It’s located inside the Daisy Hill Conservation Park, around 25 minutes south of Brisbane CBD and just off the M1 if you’re coming from the Gold Coast.
What can you do at the Daisy Hill Conservation Park?
There’s lots to do! Walking tracks, BBQs, picnic areas, cycling tracks, and even a horse-riding school. It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors.
Can you hold or cuddle a koala at Daisy Hill?
No — this sanctuary does not offer koala holding or cuddling. It’s focused on conservation and education, and koalas are observed in enclosures to reduce stress.
Is it suitable for toddlers and young children?
Absolutely. The Centre is pram-friendly, and there are interactive displays and wildlife videos to keep kids engaged. Combine it with a stop at FUNderwood Hollow for even more family fun.
When is the best time to visit?
Any time of year is fine — but weekdays or early mornings are best if you want to avoid crowds. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather for walks and picnics.
Are dogs allowed?
No, pets are not allowed in the Koala Centre or within the conservation park, to protect local wildlife.
Are there toilets and baby changing facilities?
Yes — the Centre has clean toilets, including accessible options, and baby change facilities are available on site.
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