Brisbane’s Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where some of the world’s biggest celebrities have had the opportunity to cuddle the furry marsupial, has ended its koala-holding experience. Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao and tennis champions Roger Federer, Maria Sharapova and Naomi Osaka, as well as the wives of world leaders, have been among those to hold koalas at the animal sanctuary in Fig Tree Pocket in the inner west.
“We have absolutely seen an increase in demand for educational programs and guided experiences, focusing on the ability to witness the natural behaviours of koalas.” Discombe said it was hoped guests would “love and respect them even more” when they see them “in their wonderful natural state”. The sanctuary will instead offer a new experience called “Koala Close-Up”, which will focus on “meaningful connections and extended time in the presence of the sanctuary’s beautiful koalas”.