Lyell Deer Sanctuary

Welcome to Lyell Deer Sanctuary, a hidden gem nestled in the picturesque Samford Valley, just a short drive north of Brisbane. Our institution is not your typical zoo or farm experience; we are a family-run animal rescue service dedicated to providing a safe haven for orphaned, injured, and displaced deer in Australia.

At Lyell Deer Sanctuary, our mission is to rescue and care for these magnificent creatures while offering visitors a unique opportunity to get up close and interact with them. Our sanctuary is home to a small herd of rescued red, Rusa, and fallow deer, as well as a variety of other animals such as goats, cows, chickens, guinea pigs, peacocks, and even a lizard!

Visitors from all over the world flock to our sanctuary to experience the magic of connecting with these beautiful animals in a peaceful and serene setting. Whether you're an adult or a child, Lyell Deer Sanctuary offers education, tranquility, and an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deep appreciation for nature.

As you wander through our sanctuary, you can cuddle, sit with, and hand-feed the deer and other animals, creating lasting memories and forging a bond with these incredible creatures. Our aim is to inspire visitors to become lovers of animals and the environment, fostering a sense of responsibility and stewardship for our planet.

While exploring our sanctuary, you can bring your own picnic and enjoy it at our undercover seating area or outside picnic tables. We also provide complimentary tea and coffee-making facilities, and offer cold drinks and iceblocks for purchase. Please note that picnicking in the deer paddocks is not allowed, as these mischievous creatures may snatch your food and run off with it!

We strive to make our sanctuary accessible to all visitors, but please be aware that some areas may not be wheelchair-friendly due to sloped and uneven terrain. However, our main visitor area, where the younger deer roam freely, is wheelchair-accessible. Prams are not necessary for visiting the sanctuary, as the main visitor area is fully fenced and safe for children.

The wellbeing of our animals is our top priority, and we have a zero-tolerance policy for any rough or unkind treatment towards them. We also foster a culture of kindness, acceptance, and care among our visitors and staff. Offenders will be excluded from the property, as we are committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for both humans and animals.

In addition to regular visits, Lyell Deer Sanctuary is available for group bookings, school excursions, weddings, birthday parties, workshops, and venue hire. Our opening hours are Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 4pm, and no booking is required. You can spend a few minutes or several hours with us; the choice is yours.

By visiting Lyell Deer Sanctuary, you not only get to experience the joy and wonder of interacting with these magnificent creatures, but you also contribute to the care and maintenance of our rescue animals. We receive no government financial assistance, so your support through visits, sharing, and animal sponsorships is greatly appreciated.

Come join us at Lyell Deer Sanctuary and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, breathe in the fresh air, and create lasting memories with our enchanting animals. We guarantee that a visit to our sanctuary will bring a smile to your face and perhaps even touch your soul, leaving a lasting impression long after your visit.