Australia Zoo

Australia Zoo offers each visitor an up-close animal experience unlike any other. From petting cuddly koalas to hand-feeding magnificent Asian elephants, walking with majestic Sumatran tigers to watching nail-biting crocodile shows, it's easy to see why world-famous crocodile wrestler Steve Irwin and his family called Australian Zoo home.

In the 1970s Steve Irwin's parents started a local wildlife reserve. He grew up with a love for all forms of wildlife, especially reptiles, and his amazing handling skills earned him his reputation as the famous Crocodile Hunter. Along with his wife Terri, he extended the wildlife sanctuary to include international species. Tragically, in 2006 Steve was fatally injured by a stingray barb, leaving his wife Terri and their two children, Bindi and Robert, to run Australia Zoo.

Check out Australia's indigenous creatures with a visit to the kangaroo enclosure where you can feed this iconic Aussie animal along with wombats, koalas and Tasmanian devils. There are also enclosures for predatory birds, deadly snakes and even komodo dragons! Get involved in one of the many handling and feeding demos or visit the on-site state-of-the-art hospital.

If you'd like some more thrilling wildlife action head over to the Crocoseum where you will see keepers feed and play with huge saltwater crocs – a uniquely slithering, jaw-snapping experience! Tiger Temple is home to the majestic Sumatran and Bengal tigers. You can see these magnificent tigers swimming via the zoo's underwater viewing enclosure.

Check out the Asian-themed Elephantasia, home to three beautiful Asian elephants. Why not have a go at hand-feeding these magnificent creatures with the fresh fruit and vegetables supplied? Over in the African Savannah section, you can watch giraffes, rhinos, zebras and cheetahs roam free on the arid open plains and interact as if they were in the wild.

Experience everything Australia Zoo has to offer with the Platinum Zoo Adventure. This gives you the opportunity to explore behind the scenes and go where few visitors have gone before. A specialised VIP package including a personalised guide and photographer ensures an unforgettable day out.

Australia Zoo is easily accessed by train, bus or car. Special ticket options included transport on a coach to and from the zoo. Located on Steve Irwin Way, Australia Zoo is approximately 80 kilometres north of Brisbane in Beerwah. Specialised wildlife encounters cost a little extra, with all proceeds going towards the animal conservation fund. The zoo is open every day except for public holidays.