Episode 83 – Wildlife Wonders of Queensland: Where to See Kangaroos, Koalas, Whales + More
In episode 83 of the Global Travel Planning Podcast, Tracy is joined by Queensland expert Melissa, who shares her deep local knowledge about experiencing Australia’s incredible wildlife.
Together, they uncover the best places and times to spot kangaroos, koalas, whales, platypuses, cassowaries, turtles, and more across Queensland – from the outback to the reef.
Whether you’re planning a road trip through Queensland or dreaming of your next Australian adventure, this episode will inspire you to connect with nature and experience the wild side of Australia responsibly.
Click the blue button below to listen:
Episode 83 – What you’ll learn in this episode
- 📍 How to match your Queensland itinerary with the wildlife you most want to see, including key destinations and top animal hotspots.
- 📅 When and where to go for the best wildlife experiences, from whale migration season to turtle nesting and hatching times.
- 🚗 Getting around Queensland with practical travel tips for reaching remote wildlife areas, safe driving at dawn and dusk, and joining eco-friendly boat tours in the Daintree.
- 🛏️ Where to stay for the best encounters, with guidance on accommodation near Cape Hillsborough, islands, and national parks.
- 🐨 How to find koalas and kangaroos in the wild and the importance of choosing ethical, responsible wildlife tours.
- 🦜 Where to spot rare and unusual species such as cassowaries, tree kangaroos, dugongs, and bilbies, plus how to embrace spontaneity for surprise sightings.
- 🌅 Why timing matters, including understanding dawn, dusk, and seasonal rhythms to increase your chances of seeing animals in their natural habitats.
- 🌿 Conservation and safety essentials, with simple etiquette for ethical wildlife watching, from keeping your distance to securing food and respecting nature.
Places, foods and words/concepts mentioned
Places
- Cape Hillsborough >> Renowned for morning kangaroo sightings on the beach, explained as a unique sunrise-only experience in Australia.
- Hervey Bay >> Whale watching capital where whales linger and socialise during migration, ideal for close-up boat encounters.
- Daintree >> Far North Queensland hotspot for cassowaries, tree kangaroos and crocodiles. Boat tours are recommended for safety and sightings, especially at low tide.
- Eungella National Park (Broken River) >> Prime platypus viewing area near Mackay, best at dawn or dusk. Guided tours are advised for elusive sightings.
- Mission Beach & Etty Bay >> Top sites for observing cassowaries in their only native habitat area.
- Magnetic Island, Noosa National Park, Stradbroke Island >> Great spots for seeing wild koalas, though sightings are rare and patience is essential.
- K’gari (Fraser Island) >> Known for frequent dingo sightings, with important safety and food security advice.
- Wilson Island, Heron Island, Lady Elliot Island, Lady Musgrave Island >> Southern Great Barrier Reef islands famous for turtle nesting and marine wildlife experiences.
- Charleville >> Visit for the Bilby Experience and the chance to support conservation of this endangered marsupial.
Foods
- Easter Bilby >> Chocolate bilby, a local alternative to the Easter Bunny, discussed as a unique Australian treat and symbol of conservation.
- Bundaberg Rum >> While not directly highlighted, it’s a signature local drink for those visiting the Bundaberg region.
Words/Concepts
- Tide Charts/Apps >> Essential for planning crocodile and turtle viewing, with the best times marked by low or high tide.
- Zoom (Camera/Phone) >> Emphasised for ethical photography, “use your zoom, not your feet” to maintain a safe distance.
- Australia Zoo, Lone Pine Sanctuary, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Daisy Hill Koala Sanctuary >> Recommended as reliable venues for guaranteed animal sightings when wild encounters are less feasible.
- Wildlife Etiquette >> Includes respecting animal space, securing food and rubbish, joining guided tours for expert support, and understanding the risks of dawn and dusk driving.
Whether you’re dreaming of swimming with turtles, spotting rare marsupials, or catching sunrise with kangaroos, this episode is your go-to guide for ethical and awe-inspiring wildlife adventures across Queensland.
Links
Podcasts
- Episode #18: Queensland Travel Tips: Beaches, Outback Adventures, and Hidden Gems
- Episode #32: Brisbane Day Trips: Islands, Wildlife, and Hidden Gems
- Episode #75 – The Ultimate Whitsundays Travel Guide: Best Islands, Whitehaven Beach + Insider Tips
Articles
- Australia Travel Guide
- How to see kangaroos at Cape Hillsborough
- Where to see wildlife in Queensland
- Things to do in Bowen
- Queensland bucket list
Guest Bio – Melissa Delaware
Based in Brisbane, Australia, Melissa Delaware is the editor of Thrifty Family Travels, Brisbane Travel Guide, and Queensland Travel Guide, as well as a full-time travel blogger and travel planner.
Her latest venture, the Ladies Who Travel podcast series, co-hosted with Tracy, brings together practical tips, inspiring destinations, and first-hand advice from more than eight years of travel experience. And Tracy and Melissa have just launched Ladies Who Travel Tours for mature-aged women wanting to travel confidently with other like-minded women.
Through her websites and Facebook communities, Melissa helps travellers plan unforgettable adventures while making the most of their time and budget.
Instagram – Thrifty Family Travels | Brisbane Travel Guide | Queensland Travel Guide
Facebook – Queensland Travel Guide | Ladies Who Travel
