Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Why go

The wild lorikeet gathering gives this sanctuary a memorable focus, while the bird show and Wildlife Hospital presentation add more depth inside. You can choose the brief feeding experience or commit several hours to the ticketed grounds, depending on your day.

What to look for

• Watch wild rainbow lorikeets gather for feeding.
• See the WildSkies free-flight bird show if it is scheduled.
• Learn about wildlife care at the hospital presentation.

The full story

Alex Griffiths began feeding lorikeets at Currumbin in 1947, originally to draw them away from his flower plots. The gathering developed into a bird sanctuary and, over time, a much broader wildlife site. Its old bird-feeding roots remain visible when wild rainbow lorikeets arrive, but the present sanctuary also introduces visitors to native animals and wildlife rehabilitation. The contrast between a lively feeding and the Wildlife Hospital's work gives the visit more substance than a simple animal display. The site itself has heritage significance, reflecting decades of change from a small roadside attraction to a large sanctuary. A miniature railway was added in the 1960s as the grounds expanded. Together, those layers explain why the sanctuary feels different from a newly built zoo.

Useful to know

• Check current feeding and show times before deciding between a short visit and full entry.
• Allow roughly three to six hours for the paid sanctuary if you want several presentations.
• Use the level Sanctuary Gifts entrance and consult the access guide if steep paths are a concern.

Your next visit

Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.