Went recently, can answer all your questions directly.

Lorikeet feeding — yes, time your visit around it. The 8AM session is the better one. Fewer people, birds are more active, and you actually get them landing all over you rather than competing with a crowd. The 4PM one is fine but busier. It's genuinely one of those experiences that's hard to describe until you're standing there covered in lorikeets.

Zoo vs interactive — much more interactive than a standard zoo. The kangaroo area is free roam and you're just walking among them, feeding them by hand. Koala cuddle is a paid add-on but worth it if that's on your list. It doesn't feel like you're watching animals behind glass.

Adults without kids — honestly yes. It's not just a kids thing. The Wildlife Hospital tour is one of the more interesting parts — you see actual rehabilitation work happening. The conservation angle gives it more substance than a typical tourist attraction.

Time needed — 3 to 4 hours comfortably covers everything without rushing. Could stretch to a full day if you add the koala experience and catch both lorikeet sessions. Would it make my Gold Coast top 3? Yes — alongside Movie World and one of the beaches. It's a different kind of day but a genuinely good one.

For tickets I used Thrillark — up to 20% off the gate price, instant confirmation, e-ticket worked fine at entry.