Teacher Mauled by Lion at Darling Downs Zoo Identified as Sister of Zoo Owner

Joanne Cabban, the woman who lost her arm to a lion attack at a Queensland zoo

A teacher who lost her arm in a lion attack at Darling Downs Zoo in Queensland, Australia, has been identified as Joanne Cabban, the sister of one of the zoo's owners. The incident occurred on Sunday and has since drawn national attention due to the severity of the injury and the family connection to the zoo’s leadership.

Cabban, a schoolteacher from New South Wales, was flown to Brisbane’s Princess Alexandra Hospital, where she remains in stable condition. Authorities have confirmed that her sister, Stephanie Robinson, co-owns the zoo with her husband, Steve Robinson.

According to a statement released by the zoo, Cabban sustained serious injuries when one of the lions “inexplicably” grabbed her by the arm through the enclosure. “At no stage did this animal leave its enclosure and there was no risk at all to staff members or members of the public,” the statement clarified. Investigations are currently being led by Queensland Police and Workplace Health and Safety officials, who spent several hours on-site.

Schoolteacher, Joanne Cabban mauled by lion at Darlin Downs Zoo pictured as clip of staff kissing the lion emerges from 2023

Darling Downs Zoo, which has operated for over 20 years without a similar incident, described the event as highly unusual. Zoo owner Steve Robinson addressed the media, stating that he did not consider the event a deliberate attack. “It’s not the lion’s fault,” he said. “We’ve raised these lions ourselves. Their temperaments are excellent. We can still interact with them through the mesh of the cage.”

He emphasized that the lion involved remained inside its enclosure at all times and insisted that the animal may have only been attempting to play. “We’ve got theories but until we get facts, I’m not going to be speculating,” Robinson added.

The incident has reignited public concern after a video resurfaced online showing a staff member kissing and cuddling a lion through a cage—footage that now appears disturbingly prophetic. In the clip, the lion shows clear discomfort, baring its teeth while being closely approached by the handler.

As investigations continue, the zoo has not indicated any plans to change its animal handling procedures but has expressed full cooperation with authorities. The victim has not yet been able to speak with investigators, and further details will be released once she is able to provide her account.