Lion Attack Leaves Long-Time Zoo Worker Severely Injured
A horrifying incident unfolded on Sunday morning at the Darling Downs Zoo, where a lion bit a woman in her 50s, causing what authorities described as “significant arm injuries.” The woman, a long-time and much-loved member of the zoo’s staff, was airlifted to Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane in a stable condition.
Emergency services responded to the scene around 8:30am at the popular rural zoo located on Baines Road in Pilton, approximately 35 kilometres south of Toowoomba. Paramedics arrived swiftly and coordinated with LifeFlight to transfer the victim via rescue helicopter to Brisbane, about 110 kilometres north-east of the site.
Police rushed to the site. [Credit: 7News]
Victim Known for Her Long-Time Work with Carnivores
The Darling Downs Zoo released a statement later that day, confirming the woman was a valued team member who had worked with the zoo’s carnivores for years. “She is well versed in safety protocols around potentially dangerous animals,” the zoo stated.
According to the zoo, the woman was watching other keepers working within the carnivore precinct when the lion “inexplicably” grabbed her by the arm. The animal did not leave its enclosure during the incident, and the zoo stressed that there was “no risk at all” to the public or other staff.
While the zoo has not officially confirmed the extent of the injuries, multiple reports suggest the woman lost an arm in the attack.
[Credit: 7News]
Zoo Closed for Investigations but Set to Reopen
Shortly after the attack, the Darling Downs Zoo posted a message to its social media channels saying, “Due to unforeseen circumstances, the zoo will be closed all day today.”
A staff member declined to comment further when contacted by phone, refusing to disclose whether the injured woman was a staff member or visitor—though later confirmations clarified her employment status.
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. WHSQ inspectors were seen on-site, and the zoo confirmed it is working closely with both the police and health and safety authorities.
“Full details will not be known until the woman can be interviewed,” the zoo said in its statement. “We are extremely grateful to the QAS, QPS and LifeFlight for their prompt attendance and to all of the people and organisations who have rallied round us with messages of support.”
Despite the tragedy, Darling Downs Zoo plans to reopen its gates the following day while investigations continue.
Investigations are underway at the zoo. [Credit: ABC]
Home to a Variety of Big Cats
The Darling Downs Zoo, which celebrated its 20th anniversary last month, is home to several species of big cats, including African lions, a Sumatran tiger, and a breeding pair of Sri Lankan leopards. Its African lions include rare white lions from the Greater Timbavati and Southern Kruger Park region of South Africa.
The zoo is known for its work in the conservation and breeding of critically endangered, endangered, and vulnerable animal species. According to its website, the facility recently appointed a restructuring practitioner to help reshape its commercial operations, with a continued focus on species conservation and captive husbandry.
The incident is a sobering reminder of the risks involved in working with powerful wildlife, even for experienced professionals. The lion involved in the attack remains in its enclosure, and the zoo has made no mention of any plans to remove or euthanise the animal.
A Shock to the Community
The attack has shocked the local and wider Queensland community. The woman involved had reportedly watched and assisted in carnivore keeper duties many times over her two decades of service. The fact that such an incident occurred despite her experience has led to serious questions about enclosure safety and emergency response readiness at the zoo.
Still, the zoo’s handling of the incident has drawn praise for its clarity and transparency. Their swift response and cooperation with investigators demonstrate a commitment to safety for both animals and people.
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The Darling Downs Zoo is one of Queensland’s most prominent regional attractions. It offers educational experiences and close-up encounters with exotic animals. As the zoo reopens, all eyes will be on how it adapts its protocols in the wake of this traumatic event.
Authorities and the zoo have urged the public to be respectful and refrain from speculation until the full circumstances are known.
