Woman Bitten by Lion at Darling Downs Zoo Undergoing Surgery

A woman in her 50s who was bitten by a lion at the Darling Downs Zoo near Toowoomba is scheduled for further surgery. The incident occurred while she was watching keepers in the carnivore enclosure on Sunday morning. Emergency services responded, and she was taken to Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane in stable condition. Queensland Health Minister Tim Nicholls confirmed the woman lost her arm but is recovering well.

Zoo owner Steve Robinson mentioned that the woman, experienced in handling dangerous animals, was unexpectedly bitten by a lion causing severe damage to her arm. The zoo stated that the lion involved will not face any consequences.

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland is investigating the incident, with the zoo cooperating to determine the cause. The zoo expressed gratitude for the swift response of emergency services and the support received from various individuals and organizations.

The Darling Downs Zoo, home to big cats like lions, tigers, and leopards, was closed on Sunday and is set to reopen on Tuesday. Maranoa MP David Littleproud described the attack as a tragic and shocking event for the zoo staff and the community.

According to the source: Australian Broadcasting Corporation.