[3] The sanctuary opened in 1927 to provide a safe refuge to sick, injured, and orphaned koalas, at a time when they were being killed for their fur.

[3] Lone Pine became known internationally during World War II when Americans, including Douglas MacArthur's wife, visited the park to view the native Australian animals.

Fees paid for souvenir photos of visitors holding koalas helped fund new enclosures, research projects and eucalyptus plantations.

Lone Pine hopes to improve collaboration within the science community through the use of the Institute's meeting spaces and seminar hall.

[13] In 2009 as part of the Q150 celebrations, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary was announced as one of the Q150 Icons of Queensland for its role as a "location".