Wildlife warriors: Currumbin’s cyclone comeback
Currumbin Wildlife Hospital reopens after Cyclone Alfred! 2-for-1 tickets, unlimited visits & special offers this March.
What’s Happening?
After Tropical Cyclone Alfred battered Southeast Queensland and Northern NSW last week, Currumbin Wildlife Hospital not only safeguarded its vulnerable wildlife but has now reopened stronger than ever.
The hospital's emergency response, including taking critical patients home, ensured the survival of many native animals.
Now, with the cyclone appeal ongoing and full headcounts confirming the safety of 1,000+ animals, the sanctuary is ready to welcome visitors again with special offers for locals and members.
Why It Matters?
Wildlife hospitals play a crucial role in protecting Australia’s native species, especially during disasters.
Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, one of the busiest in the world, treated hundreds of animals affected by the cyclone. The sanctuary also suffered damage across its 27-hectare site, making its rapid recovery a significant achievement.
Local Impact
With the hospital back in operation and miniature trains running again, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is inviting locals to visit as a way to support ongoing conservation efforts.
The team at the Wildlife Hospital remains dedicated, treating a surge of wildlife injured during the cyclone.
By The Numbers
1,000+ animals, including the famous 4.6m saltwater crocodile "Boss Hog," have been accounted for after the cyclone.
Hundreds of wild animals affected by Cyclone Alfred received care at the hospital.
An on-going Cyclone Appeal raising funds to support emergency wildlife treatment and rehabilitation.
Zoom In
One of the hospital’s most extraordinary efforts involved Laura Leaf, a female koala who underwent emergency abdominal surgery just hours before the cyclone hit. With the hospital closing for safety, she received round-the-clock post-operative care in a makeshift ICU in a staff member’s spare bedroom.
“We knew she wouldn’t make it without round-the-clock care,” said Dr Michael Pyne, Senior Veterinarian. “When you work in wildlife medicine, you do whatever it takes. She had major intestinal issues, and we needed to monitor her closely. So, one of our amazing team member’s spare rooms became a koala ICU.”
Zoom Out
The hospital’s response to the cyclone reflects a broader challenge for wildlife conservation in extreme weather. With climate change increasing the frequency and severity of storms, sanctuaries like Currumbin Wildlife Hospital must remain prepared for future emergencies.
What To Look For Next?
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is celebrating its reopening with exclusive offers for locals and members:
2-for-1 General Admission for Gold Coast, Brisbane, Toowoomba, Sunshine Coast, and Northern NSW residents.
Unlimited visits throughout March with proof of residency.
NTAQ members can bring two additional guests for free and receive 50% off wildlife encounters.
Visiting the sanctuary is the best way to support the hospital’s recovery and continued wildlife care.
While the storm has passed, the hospital is still in need of ongoing support. You can still donate to the Cyclone Appeal to help treat and rehabilitate injured animals.
👉 Donate here: Currumbin Wildlife Hospital Cyclone Appeal
💚 Help us continue our lifesaving work! Every donation makes a difference.