Party animals celebrate 25 years of the National Zoo and Aquarium - Canberra Weekly
While many places wind down during the winter months, the party is just getting started in creature headquarters as party animals celebrate the National Zoo and Aquarium's 25th birthday. Throughout July, locals are invited to join the party through one of the many great experiences and events on offer.
Each day of the month, a different species will be receiving a gift. What they receive varies to cater for the animals' tastes and interests. For example, otters (like those pictured) receive gifts such as pinatas that stimulate their foraging instincts.
"Animals like our cheetah might get what we call a 'bloodsicle' – cakes made specifically out of their very favourite treats. Others, like our primates, might get little boxes or bags that they might be able to climb into, and forage and look for their favourite foods as well, so there's definitely something for everybody," says manager, Jemma Walsh.
Zoo visitors are invited to learn more about the animals and the ways humans can help ensure their survival through conservation days.
The Zoo offers two new fun tours that ignite curiosity and learning. The History Tour takes participants on a behind-the-scenes journey to discover the history of the Zoo and how it has evolved into the world-class facility it is today, while the Enrichment Tour demonstrates how zookeepers ensure animals are healthy and happy in their spaces.
"You might be able to provide enrichment to animals, which is kind of cool. So, make something and see how an animal responds to it; you can take that home to your own backyard and learn how to give enrichment to your pets," says Ms Walsh.
Feel like an adventure? Two trails have been launched to coincide with the birthday celebrations. The Kids Discovery Trail teaches children about the creatures they are viewing through fun and engaging playground activities located near enclosures. The ZooArt Trail invites visitors to find incredible art throughout the Zoo, with more animals than those in their enclosures to be spotted. Some of the top chainsaw carvers in the world have created 1.3 tonnes of animal sculptures placed around the grounds. There are also bronze sculptures, animal mosaics and professional photographs – can you spot them all?
Throughout July, enjoy the winter magic with snow machines and marshmallow roasting, hayride tours, and children's activities.
Zoo visitors will go in the running to win amazing door prizes such as an overnight stay at Jamala Wildlife Lodge, the chance to get up close to the residents with an encounter, memberships, and gift shop merchandise.
Originally opened in 1990 as the National Aquarium, the facility was then sold, and native animals were added. In 1998, the venue was again up for sale and in need of some TLC, at which point the Tindale family purchased it with big dreams, inspired by contributing to the conservation of big cats. Through years of hard work, dedication and innovation, the Tindale family and their team have transformed the Zoo into an award-winning national and international tourist destination.
Now one of the leading zoological facilities in the country, the Zoo proudly houses over 70 species of animals from across the globe in open and spacious enclosures. The Aquarium has been upgraded to an aquatic paradise with freshwater and ocean tanks and downstairs reptile walkthrough.
For the past quarter century, conservation has remained at the heart of the Zoo's philosophy through their involvement in breeding programs and generous donations.
Some animals born here in Canberra go on to various other zoos and wildlife facilities to help restabilise species populations. Through the encounters and overnight stays at Jamala Wildlife Lodge, the National Zoo and Aquarium has been able to donate more than $1 million to conservation and charities in the past three years.
"Every year we raise money and awareness for lots of different organisations, from things like the RSPCA locally all the way through to big international groups – Free the Bears, or Cheetah Outreach, that sort of thing," Ms Walsh says.
She says that just by visiting the animals or staying in the lodge, guests can help to inspire the next generation of conservationists to continue this important work.
Both the National Zoo and Aquarium and Jamala have been recognised as major assets here in Canberra. At this year's Australian Tourism Awards, the overall venue took home the silver medal, while Jamala won Best Unique Accommodation in Australia.
Celebrate 25 years of the National Zoo and Aquarium this July. For experiences and events, visit nationalzoo.com.au
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