Gold Coast koala encounters: What new study reveals about public support

The Gold Coast's major theme parks are divided over the future of koala encounters after a scathing report exposed growing public unease about wildlife tourism practices.

Leading Gold Coast theme park Dreamworld is reviewing its koala encounter program as a new report reveals plummeting public support for cuddling the Aussie icon.

The report, by World Animal Protection, analyses a “rise in concern about koala tourism” and slams “those that continue to cash in on this cruel practice”.

Authored by World Animal Protection Australia’s Suzanne Milthorpe and released on Wednesday, it singles out Gold Coast venues which continue to operate animal encounters.

“Despite the encouraging progress, a number of prominent venues continue to capitalise on direct encounters that deny wildlife, particularly koalas, of their natural behaviours,” she said.

“At Paradise Country, koalas were being swayed by the handlers between each photo experience.

“Meanwhile, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary offers a Breakfast with Koalas experience, where koalas can join diners at their table.”

Aston Villa F.C midfielder Philippe Coutinho gets up close and personal with wildlife at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary including CJ the 6-year-old koala. Picture: NIGEL HALLETT

The report’s findings include:

* Around 74 per cent of those who responded to industry surveys are concerned about animal welfare and zoos and aquariums, up from 59 per cent in 2020.

* Of those, 63 per cent of Australians surveyed were “fairly / very concerned about the welfare of animals in direct encounter experiences, citing stress and unnatural behaviours as their main worries”.

Many of Queensland’s major tourism locations, and others around the country, have already abandoned the process.

Now, Dreamworld says the theme park, which recently ended its hands-on-tiger encounters, is now reviewing its koala offerings.

“We have been carefully reviewing the future of our koala encounters for some time (and) while no final decision has been made, any changes will be approached with great care and careful consideration – just as we did with our recent successful transition to a non-contact experience at Tiger Island,” a Dreamworld spokeswoman said.

Nixon Brass and Mara Douglas with ''Yalnun' the koala held by wildlife officer Kylie Lawless enjoying the new Grazy Arvo Experience at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Picture: NIGEL HALLETT

“This commitment extends beyond our park, through the Dreamworld Wildlife Foundation’s ongoing work to protect and conserve wildlife, including koalas, across Australia.

“We know how deeply our guests and community care for koalas – and we share that love. “When a decision is made, we’ll ensure the community is the first to know.”

However, other Gold Coast attractions say they have no plans to change their offerings.

A Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary spokesman said all of its animal experiences were “carefully curated by expert wildlife keepers with welfare as the number one priority”.

“We operate under strict government licensing and adhere to stringent animal welfare protocols that ensure the wellbeing of every animal in our care,” he said.

Dreamworld Koala handler Rebecca Burton holding Lola with Poppy, Nudgee, and Missy in the background. Picture: Jerad Williams

“At this stage, we have no plans to phase out koala encounters because we believe connecting guests with koalas in a responsible, welfare-first setting is an essential part of inspiring people to care about and protect this endangered species.

“Meaningful connection is what motivates action and conservation depends on it (and) we are constantly reviewing and refining all experiences to ensure they meet and exceed best-practice welfare standards and continue to align with evolving community expectations.”

A Village Roadshow theme parks spokesman said Paradise Country was “an accredited zoological facility and strictly adheres to all state government regulations”.

“All animal and visitor interactions are undertaken to industry best standards and with the welfare of the animals at the forefront,” he said.

“We have an experienced animal care team who provide exemplary training, conditioning and enrichment programs to ensure the highest quality of life for the animals who reside with us. “We will maintain our welfare-based koala interactions and continue to work with the Zoo and Aquarium Association of Australia and the Government on ensuring best practice for the animals in our care.”