New major attractions are set to be developed at a leading Australian zoo.
With more mammals and sea-life than most other countries, animal welfare is at the heart of Australia’s ethos. Now, $22.8 million worth of funds have been injected to support the development of a new wildlife hospital and platypus refuge facility at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo.
The grant was made possible by New South Wales (NSW) Government who has generously provided $14 million towards the world-class wildlife hospital and almost $9 million to the Platypus Visitor and Education Facility, making it one of the largest investments in the zoo’s 43 year history.
Once opened, the ground-breaking development will have the facilities to care for more than 60 platypuses, as they recover from illness and injury. Officials from the zoo believe the new platypus attraction will be extremely popular amongst guests, whom share Charles Darwin’s fascination for the angelic creatures 300 years since the legendary explorer set foot in Australia.
Leading Australia attraction
Spanning over 300 acres, with more than 1000 animals and 45 attractions – Taronga Western Plains Zoo is one of New South Wales’ leading animal parks. The park currently welcomes 180,000 visitors a year, a number which is expected to rise with the additional attractions.
Commenting on the new facilities, Dugald Saunders, NSW MP and Member of Dubbo Electorate said: “The new wildlife hospital and platypus refuge will not only play key roles in caring for injured wildlife but also make a significant contribution to vital conservation work.”
John Barilaro, Deputy Premier for NSW also added: “These two projects are particularly good news for regional wildlife displaced by droughts and bushfires and will provide a great educational resource for school students and researchers alike.”
The wildlife hospital and platypus facility are expected to be completed in 2023.
Currency displayed is AUD.
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