A zoo in Queensland has reopened just two days after an incident where an employee, identified as the owner’s sister-in-law, suffered severe arm injuries from a lion attack. The victim, a woman in her 50s, was stable in the hospital after the Sunday morning incident at the Darling Downs zoo located near Toowoomba. The zoo’s owner, Steve Robinson, who updated the media on the incident outside the zoo on Tuesday, described the event as happening at a restricted enclosure called the “keeper’s area,” where only trained employees are permitted. He specified that the policy of “protected contact” is strictly observed, prohibiting staff from entering enclosures with adult lions.
Robinson mentioned that at the time of the incident, others had just finished cleaning the main enclosure before the attack, and the victim, a school teacher from New South Wales who regularly visits with her family, was likely in the area taking photos as part of her contribution to the zoo’s calendars. He credited a carnivore keeper for saving her life by applying a tourniquet and first aid rapidly. Robinson ruled out any aggression from the animals, insinuating that the lion’s behavior was more akin to playfulness, having been raised at the zoo where their temperaments are reportedly excellent.
Investigations into the incident are now underway by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, and the victim is set to undergo another surgery to address her injuries. The zoo has reopened its doors to the public but has suspended paid encounters with the lions for the week out of respect for the affected keepers. Despite the tragedy, visitors have shown their support by bringing gifts and chocolates to brighten the mood. Established 20 years ago, the zoo houses nine lions and employs four lion keepers.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/jul/08/lion-attack-woman-loses-arm-darling-downs-zoo-reopens-queensland-ntwnfb
