A good question.
A local answer.

Compare a suitable van or larger taxi with public transport only after checking baggage rules and the final walk to your accommodation.

Check road and track alerts, travel times and daylight; a scenic map route may include slow winding sections.

Allow for meal breaks and shorter driving blocks with children rather than copying a map's nonstop drive time.

Choose a short, well-formed route with an easy turnaround point and check its current access conditions.

Confirm directly that the pool is indoors or reliably heated in winter; a listing's pool icon is not enough.

Account for city traffic, parking and the drive onward to Brisbane before setting a lunch reservation.

Check each park's current ride-by-ride height and supervision rules before buying tickets.

A weekday can help, but weather and special events also move crowds; book must-do experiences only after checking conditions.

Compare small-group tours by exact trail stops, pickup, walking difficulty and time outside the vehicle.

Check the current park calendars and Schoolies dates for your exact week; the biggest nightlife crowds and ride queues do not always overlap in the same way.

If you want a relaxed zoo visit, consider an overnight nearby or compare closer wildlife options.

Confirm parking, family occupancy and evening noise in recent reviews, especially for a longer stay with teenagers.