Tucked away in a serene hideaway just thirty minutes north of Brisbane, Lyell Deer Sanctuary is the perfect spot to get up close and personal with adorable rescue deer of all sorts, from red and rusa to fallow deer.
The sanctuary, usually open to the public on weekends, is a family-run animal rescue service, home to not only deer but also goats, cows, chickens, guinea pigs, peacocks and more.
It’s a lovely day out for Brisbane locals and visitors alike, where you can bring your own picnic rug, find a nice spot on the property, and buy a bag of pellets to feed the deer with.
Over the Christmas period this month, Lyell Deer Sanctuary is extending its opening hours to select days during the week, so you can come out and experience an encounter with the deer. Perhaps you can even pretend that it’s snowing and you’re feeding actual reindeer.
Bookings aren’t required for regular sanctuary visits, and entry is just $5 per adult and $3 per child.
Complimentary tea and coffee is included with your entry fee, with cold drinks and ice blocks also available for purchase.
Be sure to check to out their Christmas Adopt-A-Reindeer events, which are perfect for families to get into the festive spirit. Think plush reindeer toy adoptions, ginger reindeer decorating, and more. These events require bookings in advance though.
To see Lyell Deer Sanctuary’s holiday opening hours, click here.