A woman in her 50s is in hospital after sustaining significant injuries from an animal bite at Darling Downs Zoo, a favourite spot for kids in the Southern Downs. The incident occurred at approximately 8.32am on Sunday, July 7. It is understood the woman lost an arm as a result of the attack, which took place in a zoo renowned for its collection of big cats, including lions, tigers, and leopards. Queensland Ambulance Service confirmed that the victim suffered a “significant arm injury”. She was airlifted by Life Flight rescue helicopter to Princess Alexandra Hospital, where her condition is described as stable.
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland has been notified of the incident. “WHSQ Inspectors are onsite and making inquiries. No further comment can be made at this time,” a spokesperson said.
In response to the incident, the Darling Downs Zoo announced via Facebook that it would remain closed for the day “due to unforeseen circumstances”.
According to its website, the zoo houses African lions—including rare white lions from various regions of South Africa - as well as other big cats such as a Sumatran tiger and a breeding pair of Sri Lankan leopards. Now marking its 20th anniversary, the zoo has recently appointed a “restructuring practitioner” to “make our commercial structure more fit for purpose”.
“The zoo specialises in the captive husbandry and breeding of many critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable species from around the world,” the website states.
The Town & Country Journal was unsuccessful in trying to reach the Darling Downs Zoo.
