Annual Report 2008

Transcription

Annual Report 2008

Beneath
Surface
Beneaththe
the Surface
...
ta r o n g a c o n s e r vat i o n s o c i e t y a u s t r a l i a
A n n ua l R e p o r t 2 0 0 8
OurOurVision
Vision
Our vision is to
inspire Australians
and our visitors
to discover, explore,
delight in and protect
our natural world.
The Zoological Parks Board
of NSW operates Taronga Zoo
and Taronga Western Plains Zoo.
The principal office of the Board
is at Taronga Zoo.
Office Hours: 8.30am to 5.00pm
Monday to Friday.
Both Zoos have wheelchair
access to most exhibits and
facilities, as well as special
toilet facilities for people with
disabilities.
www.zoo.nsw.gov.au
The current annual report is
available on the Zoological Parks
Board of NSW (ZPB) website.
ISSN 0312 –181X
Design: Impress Design
Editor: Zoo Media Relations &
Darill Clements
Total Cost of Production:
The total cost of $55,148
also includes $4,367 for
the production of the 2007
Animal Register, the annual
reconciliation of wildlife held
by the Zoos.
Submerge
yourself
in our world.
Our animals, plants &
physical assets
Delve beneath
the surface ...
Our conservation,
research & rescue
efforts
Our new
Great Southern
Oceans exhibit
Our education
& community
programs
and discover
and discover ...
Cover
images
An
overview
The Taronga Conservation Society
Australia, also known as the
Zoological Parks Board, operates
Taronga Zoo in Sydney and Taronga
Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo,
attracting local, interstate and
international visitors.
Leopard Seal
Hydrurga leptonyx
In April, Taronga Zoo’s expansive
EnergyAustralia Great Southern
Oceans mega-exhibit, opened to
the public for the first time. The
new 1.2 hectare exhibit features
Australian Sealions, Fur Seals,
Californian Sealions, Pelicans
and the only Leopard Seals and
Fiordland Penguins to be cared
for by a zoo anywhere in the
world. Great Southern Oceans
plays a vital part in marine
conservation through public
education about these precious
creatures and their natural
habitats, research, breeding and
field conservation. It is also home
to the world-renowned Australian
Marine Mammal Research Centre.
Photographs courtesy rick stevens
2
Australia is constituted under
the Zoological Parks Board Act,
1973, as a statutory authority
owned by the people of New
South Wales and comes within
the administration of the Minister
for Climate Change and the
Environment.
Amended legislation in 1992
defined the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia’s responsibilities
in education conservation,
research, and recreation (see
Appendix 1).
Contents
5
6
Chairman’s Report Appointed Board Our
mission
Our mission is to
demonstrate a meaningful
and urgent commitment
to wildlife, our natural
environment and the
pursuit of excellence in our
conservation, recreation and
scientific endeavours.
Through effective
communication and example
we will promote positive and
measurable conservation
outcomes. We will inspire
active and enjoyable learning
experiences and be a catalyst
in creating understanding
and wonderment of our
natural world.
By encouragement and
demonstration, our Zoos will
lead individuals and
communities in the wise and
sustainable use of natural
resources for the benefit of
future generations.
Senior Management Team
Organisational Chart
Director and Chief
Executive’s Report
8
8
Year in Brief – Visitation
10
11
12
14
Our animals plants
and physical assets
17
Human Resources
42
46
48
55
57
Life Sciences Divisions
19
Occupational Health
and Safety
59
Facilities Branch
26
27
Association of Zoo
Friends (NSW) Inc
Our conservation, research and education
29
Market Research
Highlights of 2007-08
Year in Brief – Financials
Capital Works and
Infrastructure
Conservation and
Research Programs
Education Programs
Our business enterprise
31
37
41
The Taronga Foundation
Marketing
Media Relations
Our people
Financial Report
60
61
62
63
Financial Statutory
Performance
64
Appendices
119
Glossary
157
Index
159
Our Customers
Taronga Conservation Society Australia Annual Report 2008 3
Taronga
Western
Plains Zoo
Taronga
Zoo
Symbol
Platypus Ornithorhynchus anatinus
Opened
October 1916. Site 28 hectares.
Animals
From the Old Moore Park Zoo, founded
by the Royal Zoological Society of New
South Wales in 1881. The collection
now includes approximately 3,957
animals from 368 species/sub-species.
Contact
Symbol
Giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis
Opened
February 1977. Site 788 hectares.
Animals
Exhibited in open range facilities.
The collection now contains
approximately 697 animals from 99
species/sub-species.
Contact
Obley Road, Dubbo
PO Box 831, Dubbo NSW 2830
Tel: (02) 6882 5888
Fax: (02) 6884 1722
Hours: 9.00am to 5.00pm daily
Website: www.zoo.nsw.gov.au
Number of animals: 697
Species/sub-species: 99
Bradleys Head Rd, Mosman
PO Box 20, Mosman NSW 2088
Tel: (02) 9969 2777
Fax: (02) 9969 7515
Hours: 9.00am to 5.00pm daily
Website: www.zoo.nsw.gov.au
Number of animals: 3957
Species/sub-species: 368
The Hon Carmel Tebbutt MP
Minister for Climate Change and Environment
Parliament House
Macquarie Street
Sydney NSW 2001
Dear Minister
It is a great pleasure to present the 35th Annual Report of the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia (a trademark of the Zoological Parks Board of New South Wales),
which includes the statement of accounts, for your presentation to the NSW
Parliament. This report covers in full the Taronga Conservation Society Australia’s
activities for the year ended 30 June 2008 in accordance with Section 20 and 37
of the Zoological Parks Board Act 1973 (as amended), and the Annual Reports
Statutory Bodies Act 1984 (as amended).
Yours sincerely
Leonard F Bleasel AM
Chairman
25 October, 2008
4
Chairman’s
Report
It is with much pride that I
submit the 35th Annual Report
for the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia (TCSA).
I would like to extend a warm welcome
to the Honourable Carmel Tebbutt who
was recently appointed Minister for
Climate Change and the Environment.
We look forward to working with her to
achieve positive results for wildlife and
the environment.
I would like to extend a thanks to the
Honourable Phil Koperberg MP and
Honourable Verity Firth for their service
and support during their respective time
as our minister.
Once again, the past year was marked
by significant change aimed at meeting
the evolving focus and goals of the
organisation. Importantly, as we work
together on future conservation initiatives,
our two Zoos will now share the same
world renowned Taronga name.
The re-branding of Taronga and Western
Plains Zoos was welcomed throughout
both Zoos. The new streamlined
Platypus and Giraffe logos are now
featured comprehensively throughout
the Zoos – from signs in the Zoo
grounds to staff uniforms and in all
communication programs.
A highlight for both Taronga Zoo and
Taronga Western Plains Zoo this year
has been our conservation efforts on
behalf of the endangered Tasmanian
Devil. With numbers in the wild facing
increasing pressure from the rapid
spread of the facial tumour disease, key
strategies are now in place to develop
breeding facilities to establish long-term
viable insurance populations
Both Zoos are to be congratulated on
the speed with which they developed
new purpose built breeding facilities.
Taronga Zoo and Taronga Western
Plains Zoo are already home to
animals specifically chosen for the
breeding program and provided by the
Tasmanian government. Following the
successful introduction to the new
homes, a number of pouch young
have already been noted. The Taronga
Conservation Society Australia has a
substantial, ongoing commitment to the
conservation of this iconic Australian
species and the provision of further
facilities is also planned.
In April, we celebrated the completion
of perhaps the most significant exhibit
in Taronga Zoo’s 91-year history with a
special media preview of the $54 million
‘Great Southern Oceans’ supported by
the Premier, the Hon. Morris Iemma MP.
This magnificent exhibit celebrating
Australia’s unique marine mammal and
bird life has already attracted thousands
of visitors. The new 950 seat Seal
Theatre was well utilised by visitors as
they enjoyed the training of seals for
the new seal show expected to debut in
July. We are grateful for the generous
assistance of the National Institute
of Dramatic Art (NIDA) in helping us
prepare for this major presentation
and attraction.
Another key component of our
redevelopment program is to provide
adequate and appropriate parking
for our visitors. The upgrading of the
Taronga Zoo car park commenced
this year with the objective of doubling
capacity. The new facility is designed
with environmental considerations to
the fore embracing water retention for
reuse as well as energy saving features.
Importantly, the new facility will improve
safety and access for our visitors. In line
with this development, a long term and
innovative initiative to encourage the
use of public transport and park and
ride packages has been successfully
launched. On completion of the car park,
the redevelopment of the entire Main
Entrance Plaza will commence, a major
feature of which will see the refurbishing
and upgrading of the Zoo’s renowned
heritage entrance building.
I am also pleased to announce that
the important redevelopment of the
entry and visitor facilities at Taronga
Western Plains Zoo will also commence
in the coming year. The design and
facilities provided by the new entry
complex will enable greater use and
enjoyment of visitor amenities by the
local Orana region community. Planning
for the development of a number of key
Taronga Western Plains Zoo exhibits is
also underway.
Once again, I would like to thank all
the Taronga Conservation Society
Australia staff for their passion and
commitment to the two Zoos in this year
of immense change and progress. The
support and enthusiasm they bring to
all their endeavours gives me and all
Board Members great confidence in
our on-going conservation programs
and the future of our precious wildlife
collections.
Chairman,
Taronga Conversation Society Australia
& Board Committees
Appointed Board
Ms Gae Raby (6)
Section 6 of the Act stipulates
the criteria under which the
members are appointed. The
Board met six times during
the year and the number of
meetings attended by each
member is shown in brackets.
Mr Leonard Bleasel
AM, JP FAIM FAICD (6)
Ministerial Appointee. Chairman of the
Taronga Conservation Society Australia.
Mr Bleasel was the Managing Director
and Chief Executive Officer of The
Australian Gas Light Company (AGL)
until his retirement in February 2001.
He is Chairman of ABN AMRO Australia
Holdings and Australian Pipeline Ltd.
Mr Bleasel is also a Director of QBE
Insurance Group and O’Connell Street
Associates and a Member of the
Advisory Committee of Westmead
Children’s Hospital.
(Term of appointment expires 30/6/10)
Mr Richard Humphry
AO, FCA FAICD AFIN MACS (6)
Ministerial Appointee. Deputy Chairman
and Chairman of the Finance and
Capital Works Committee. Director,
HSBC Australia, United Group
Ltd, BUPA Australia Holdings and
O’Connell Street Associates. Former
Managing Director and CEO of the
Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) and
Director-General of the NSW Premier’s
Department. Former Auditor-General of
Victoria, following 20 years experience
in the Australian Federal Public Service
and 13 years in the banking industry.
6
Ministerial Appointee. Chair of the Audit
Committee, member of the Finance and
Capital Works Committee. Ms Raby had
involvement in the development and
delivery of large government programs
and the management of State owned
enterprises. Ms Raby has executive
experience in public policy, finance
and the machinery of Government,
and advises agencies on governance
arrangements. Director on the
Landcom Board.
Councilor Allan Smith (6)
Representing Dubbo City Council.
Elected member of Dubbo City Council
since 1991. Former Mayor of Dubbo and
current Deputy Chair of Orana Regional
Development Board. Executive member
of Local Government Association of
NSW and Chairman of the Roads and
Transport Advisory Council of NSW.
Former official with the Shop Distributive
and Allied Employees’ Association,
Chairman, Statecover Mutual Ltd.
Dr Anthony W English
AM RFD, BVSc (Hons.) PhD FACVSc (6)
Ministerial Appointee. Chair of the
Zoological Committee. Honorary
Associate Professor in the Faculty
of Veterinary Science, University of
Sydney and inaugural Director of the
University of Sydney’s Wildlife Health
and Conservation Centre. Dr English
is founder and Past President of the
Australian Association of Veterinary
Conservation Biologists, and Past
Chairman of the World Association of
Wildlife Veterinarians. He is a Fellow
and Life Member of the Australian
Veterinary Association and a Fellow
of the Australian College of Veterinary
Scientists. Dr English was appointed a
Member in the General List of the Order
of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday
Honours in 2006, for services to
veterinary science in the field of wildlife
health and population management, and
for service to the Australian deer industry.
Mr Ian Cox, MACEL (5)
Representing Zoo Friends, Taronga
Western Plains Zoo. Member of the
Zoological and Marketing Committees.
Mr Cox was a Secondary School Deputy
Principal and has a background in
science education. He is currently a
casual teacher at the Wambangalang
Environment Centre, Dubbo. Mr Cox has
been a member of Zoo Friends, Taronga
Western Plains Zoo, for 20 years and
has been former Vice President of Zoo
Friends Council and is currently Chair of
the Education Sub-Committee of Zoo
Friends Volunteers, Dubbo.
Mr William (Bill) McLaughlin (5)
Ministerial appointee. Chair of the
Marketing Committee. Mr McLaughlin
is a partner in Bill and Elaine McLaughlin
Enterprises, a marketing consultancy.
He retired from full time employment as
Group Manager, Corporate Affairs
of AGL in 2002, after 22 years with
that organisation. He has extensive
experience in corporate marketing,
advertising and stakeholder management.
Councilor Martin Skipper (6)
Representing Mosman Council. Member
of the Marketing and Audit Committees.
Clr Skipper has been Chair of the
Business and Marketing Advisory Group
of Mosman Council since 1999 and
has extensive experience in marketing
and communications in both global
manufacturing and the maritime industry.
Previous Board member of Bounty
Voyages and Community Advisory
Committee member of Sydney Harbour
Federation Trust. Currently Ship’s Master
with Defence Maritime Services.
Board Committees
From Left to Right:
Finance Committee (6)
Mr Leonard Bleasel
Mr Richard Humphry
Ms Gae Raby
Councilor Allan Smith
Dr Anthony English
Mr Ian Cox
Mr William (Bill) McLaughlan
Councilor Martin Skipper
Ms Catherine Strassberg
Mr Richard Morecroft
Chairperson – Mr Richard Humphry
AO. Monitors financial performance,
including occupational health and
safety, environment, human resource
management and capital works programs.
Consists of selected Board Members.
Ms Catherine Strassberg (5)
Representing Zoo Friends, Sydney.
Member of the Zoological, Audit, and
Finance and Capital Works Committees.
Ms Strassberg has been a member of
Zoo Friends since 1995 and former
member of the Zoo Friends Council. Ms
Strassberg is an account consultant and
member of the Australian Society of
Certified Practicing Accountants.
Mr Richard Morecroft (5)
Ministerial appointee. Member of the
Marketing Committee. Mr Morecroft
has over 25 years experience as a
broadcaster with the ABC television
network. For two decades he was the
principal presenter for ABC NSW nightly
news as well as presenting a range of
current affairs, education and natural
history programs. Mr Morecroft is also
the author of several books, including
wildlife publications for adults and
children. Through his media consultancy
he is involved with media skills training
and conference hosting. Mr Morecroft
is also a Member of the Board of
Bundanon and a Patron of WIRES.
Audit Committee (3)
Chairperson – Ms Gae Raby. Monitors
and covers issues relating to internal
control systems, risk management
systems, financial reporting and other
financial responsibilities. Consists of
selected Board Members.
Marketing Committee (6)
Chairperson – Mr Bill McLaughlin.
Monitors all marketing activities
including communications, sponsorship,
Taronga Foundation, customer service
and tourism development. Consists of
selected Board Members.
Zoological Committee (6)
Chairperson – Dr Anthony English AM.
Monitors collection management, wildlife
conservation, research and veterinary
services. Consists of selected Board
Members plus the following observers
from appropriate specialist fields:
•• Dr Chris Dickman – School of
Biological Sciences, University
of Sydney
•• Professor Richard Kingsford –
School of Biological, Earth and
Environmental Sciences, University
of NSW
Ethics Committee (5)
Statutory committee through which
all research projects involving animal
research must be approved. Constituted
in accordance with the Animal Research
Act 1985 and consists of the following
representatives:
•• Mr William Meikle, Chairperson until
February 2008 (Researcher)
•• Dr Rebecca Spindler, Chairperson
from February 2008 (Researcher)
•• Dr Frances Hulst (Veterinarian)
•• Dr Benn Bryant (Veterinarian)
•• Ms Cecily Stuart-Prentice (Animal
Welfare Representative)
•• Mr Tony Gregory (Animal Welfare
Representative)
•• Justice Michael Foster QC
(Independent Representative)
•• Mr Harold Eagleton AM (Independent
Representative)
The Committee held five meetings
during 2007/2008 in August, November,
January, March and May where it
reviewed 10 new projects, nine of which
were approved and one rejected. The
Committee also reviewed and approved
10 ongoing projects.
In April the triennial site inspection was
conducted by Mr. Peter Johnson, Animal
Welfare Branch, NSW Department of
Primary Industries and Ms S Abbot,
Animal Research Review Panel, which
subsequently led to the renewal of
Australia’s accreditation as an Animal
Research Centre.
Guy Cooper
Bettina Sammut
William Meikle
Alex Halliburton
Hunter Rankin
FAIM, LAAI
Director and
Chief Executive
BA, Cert (PR), Grad
Cert (HRM)
General Manager,
Human Resources
BSc, MSc
General Manager,
Scientific Research and
Wildlife Conservation
BLA (Hon)
General Manager,
Capital Works and
Infrastructure
BCom
General Manager,
Corporate Services,
Finance and Legal
minister for climate change and the environment
taronga conservation society australia board
director and chief executive
senior management team
management divisions
TARONGA Western
Plains Zoo
Wildlife Programs
life sciences &
environmental
education
Marketing
Life Sciences Strategy
& Operations Animal
Husbandry
Guest Services
Keeping Operations
Media Relations
Formal Education
Commercial Operations
including ‘Zoofari Lodge’
Community Education
Travel and Tourism
Education Programs
Conservation Programs
Visitor Education
(interpretation) & Public
Presentations
Strategic Communications
Media and Public Relations
human resources
Payroll, Recruitment and
HR Services
Employee & Industrial
Relations
Equity and Diversity
Staff Training and
Development
Registered Training
Organisation Management
Organisation Development
and Change Management
Occupational Health
and Safety and Risk
Management
Environmental Policy
and Management
8
Capital works and
infrastructure
Capital Planning and
Development
Management of Capital
Works Procurement and
Contracts
Facilities & Asset Operations
and Maintenance
Horticulture
Annette Stevens
Susan Baker
Cameron Kerr
Matthew Fuller
BCom
Acting General
Manager Marketing,
Fundraising and
Development
Commenced:
18 Feb 2008
Acting General
Manager – Guest
Services and
Commenced:
18 Feb 2008
BSc (Hon), BCom
General Manager,
Life Sciences and
Environmental
Education
General Manager,
Taronga Western
Plains Zoo
Commenced:
25 February, 2008
(Previous incumbent:
William Garton BSc
MBA.
(Previous incumbent:
Steven Skarott BCom
– General Manager,
Marketing, Guest
and Commercial
Operations.
Resignation effective
23 November 2007)
Resignation effective
15 February 08).
corporate
services
Financial Planning and
Management
Audit and Review
Legal Services
Records Management
Management Support
Services
scientific
research
& wildlife
conservation
Government Liaison &
Regulatory Interface
Master Plan exhibit
planning and animal
coordination
Curatorial Services
marketing, guest
and commercial
operations
Marketing and Product
Development
Retail and Catering
Guest Services &
Admissions
Tourism & Group Sales
Information Technology
Animal Transations
Risk Management
Species Management
Fundraising/Taronga
Foundation
Veterinary Services
Design Studio
Wildlife Conservation
Programs
Security Services
Research Programs
Reproductive Laboratory
Behavioural Science
Sky Safari
Cleaning
AMMRC
Director’s
Report
A year of conservation
triumphs for Taronga Zoo and
Taronga Western Plains Zoo
has marked the significant
change in our Zoos’ identity
to the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia (TCSA).
Chosen after extensive nation wide
research, the new name better describes
our activities and direction and is
reflected in the announcement of the
Taronga Foundation’s first series of Field
Conservation Grants to eight projects
ranging from Aceh and Botswana
to Vietnam and the Daintree region
of Queensland.
Since its inception in 2000,
The Taronga Foundation has continued
to grow its investment in global
conservation programs in the areas
of field conservation, research and
environmental education.
Another major conservation feature
of the year has been our participation
in the global zoo effort to slow the
dramatic rate of frog extinctions by
promoting 2008 as the “Year of the
Frog” with the active support of Sir
David Attenborough. This coordinated
regional zoo conservation strategy was
announced during the Australasian
Regional Association of Zoological
Parks and Aquaria (ARAZPA)
Conference held at Taronga Zoo in
March. The strategy aims at addressing
the decline in Australasia’s frog
populations, with 47 species out of 220
endangered by habitat loss and disease.
During the conference, ARAZPA zoos
initiated over 17 projects focusing
on 14 different frog species across
the region. The Taronga Conservation
Society Australia committed $40,000
towards the $400,000 regional target
and will in addition, continue to focus
on breed and release programs for the
critically endangered Corroboree and
Booroolong Frogs.
We are also proud of the achievements
of Taronga’s Bird Keepers who have
worked tirelessly to promote the survival
of the tiny native Regent Honey-eater
species. Their dedication culminated in
the successful release of 27 Regent
Honey-eaters at Chiltern in Victoria
this year, crowning over a decade’s
involvement in the project.
10
Our strong commitment to Australian
wildlife was exemplified this year with
the establishment of breeding facilities
for Tasmanian Devils at both Zoos. The
Taronga Conservation Society Australia
is participating with six mainland zoos
and wildlife parks in the establishment
of an insurance population.
Both Zoos enjoyed another major year
with its elephants programs. Taronga
Western Plains Zoo welcomed two
elderly Asian elephants being retired
into its care from a circus. This decision
and investment demonstrates the
immense value Zoos offer in caring
for such species. These two elderly
elephants will receive ongoing expert
veterinary and keeper care throughout
their twilight years.
Taronga’s ever-popular elephant group
was at the centre of celebrations this
year, with the invitro fertilisation of
Porntip, the matriarch of the group and
the successful mating of Thong Dee
with bull elephant, Gung. This was the
first Australasian successful natural
mating of an Asian Elephant, a positive
step for the conservation breeding
program for this endangered species.
The successful fertilisation of a Black
Rhinoceros egg at Taronga Western
Plains Zoo this year was a world first.
This breakthrough with its advancement
towards opportunities for genetic
diversity is a continuation of the results
achieved in 2006, when Taronga
Western Plains Zoo and its collaborative
partners from the Berlin Institute of
Zoo and Wildlife Research achieved the
world’s first collection of eggs from a
live Black Rhinoceros.
I take great pride on behalf of all
our staff in these achievements as it
speaks, not only of our determination
to contribute to the preservation of
precious species throughout the world,
but of how much global zoo networks
are achieving through cooperative,
coordinated action for wildlife.
We will very soon enter the eighth year
of our significant 12-year redevelopment
program. We recognise that a visit to
our Zoos is not just about the animal
experience, it is also about the visitor
experience. Without proper and
adequate facilities for our animals, our
visitors and our staff those things that
we espouse and deliver on behalf of the
world’s wildlife are severely undermined.
It is a tribute to our more than 600
staff – our keepers, our scientists and
education experts, those in commercial
enterprises and fundraising, those who
welcome our visitors and the support
provided by our volunteers and Zoo
Friends, that this 12-year journey is
achieving so much and continuing so
well. To look back and to look forward
is to see only a bright and encouraging
future as we grow and contribute to the
world’s conservation community and
their efforts on behalf of wildlife.
I thank everyone for their continued,
selfless commitment to our wildlife. The
creativity, dedication and determination
demonstrated have made the past year
a true triumph for us all.
Guy Cooper
Director and Chief Executive
Highlights
2007–2008
Our
Conservation,
Research and
Education
Our Animals
Plants and
Physical Assets
The opening of the 1.2
hectare exhibit, ‘Great
Southern Oceans’ which is
home to the only Fiordland
Penguins to be cared for by a
Zoo anywhere in the world.
The announcement of the
first natural Asian Elephant
pregnancy in Australasia with
confirmation in February that
‘Thong Dee’ is with calf.
The QBE Free Flight Bird
Show celebrated its 10th
anniversary in September
whilst debuting a new star,
‘Lesley’ the Andean Condor.
The arrival at Taronga
Western Plains Zoo of two
female Asian Elephants
“Arna” and “Gigi” from
Stardust Circus.
The commencement in
February of a 900 space car
park at Taronga Zoo.
Births of a male Western
Lowland Gorilla and two
Chimpanzees at Taronga Zoo.
Upgrade of Taronga Zoo’s
Waste Water Treatment
Plant, significantly increasing
capacity.
Our Business
Enterprise
The first series of The
Zoo, a behind the scenes
documentary shot at both
Zoos aired on Network Seven
in February. Over 7.5 million
people watched the program
on the multifaceted roles of
the Zoos.
The governing name,
Zoological Parks Board was
replaced with the Taronga
Conservation Society
Australia in January to
more accurately reflect the
functions of the organisation.
The re-opening of the Lower
Entrance shop below ‘Great
Southern Oceans’ helped the
retail team achieve record
profits of $1,071,591.
A milestone year for The
Taronga Foundation which
raised $5.2 million.
Taronga Zoo won the Sports,
Events and Tourism category
at the NSW Premier’s Export
Awards.
In March, Taronga Zoo
hosted the annual ARAZPA
Conference for over 200
delegates from 40 zoological
institutions from Australasia.
The world’s first successful
artificial fertilisation of a Black
Rhinoceros egg at Taronga
Western Plains Zoo.
The Wildlife Hospital treated
over 1067 native animals.
The release of the first
Zoo-bred Booroolong Frogs
in South Western NSW.
The release of 27 Zoobred Regent Honey-eaters
in Victoria as to assist
endangered wild populations.
Under the Taronga
Australia’s commitment to the
National Recovery Program
for Tasmanian Devils, both
Zoos recorded success with
the first joeys born in June.
The first round of Taronga
Foundation Conservation
Field Grants was announced.
This expanded our
commitment to sustaining
secure wildlife populations
in natural eco-systems
and habitats.
The Taronga Training Institute
was established, providing a
registered training institute
for accredited courses in
animal studies.
Our People
12 staff were awarded Zoo
Friends Fellowship grants to
the value of $40, 000.
A further 16 Taronga
Australia staff were
welcomed into the ‘20 year
club’ for two decades of
outstanding service.
The Taronga Conservation
Society Australia’s invaluable
volunteer program saw 120
new participants inducted.
Society Australia welcomed
a new Aboriginal keeper
and two Aboriginal Education
Officers.
207 staff delivered
educational lectures, public
presentations, scientific
papers, workshops and
conferences in Australia
and internationally.
176 staff members
participated in Earth Hour
to celebrate environmental
sustainability.
Financials
Year in Brief – Financials
Allocations of Staff
by Board Program
187
Life Sciences/
Research Staff
employed
Total
Staff
324
Total Income
Expenditure on
Capital Development
and Maintenance
5.29 $25.440m
%
Total Expenditure
increase from 2006/07 to 2007/08
Guest Services and Commercial Operations
$m
0
Life Sciences and Research 187
Guest Services and
Commercial Operations 69
07/08
06/07
Capital Works and
Infrastructure 77
04/05
03/04
Human Resources 11
Marketing and
Communications 22
0
8
85.986
07/08
Corporate
Services
Humanand
Resources
Marketing
Communications
81.663
06/07
05/06
Corporate Services 27
$m
18
36
54 Life 72
90and Research
Sciences
Capital Works and Infrastructure
74.844
61.960
16
24
40
25.440
37.709
27.303
05/06
30.887
04/05
03/04
25.423
02/03
57.662
02/03
25.934
01/02
56.074
01/02
62.561
32
15.333
85.986m
Total Income
$
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
0
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90
06/07
05/06
04/05
0
03/04
5
10
15
06/07
02/03
05/06
01/02
00/01
04/05
03/04
Corporate Services
02/03
Human Resources
12
Marketing and Communications
Life Sciences and Research
15.333
01/02
00/01
8.047
0
Sources of Income for
Board Programs
31%
Admission income
Total Assets
294.716m
$
10
%
50
100 150 200 250 300
07/08
294.716
271.118
06/07
237.005
05/06
218.600
04/05
190.741
03/04
02/03
01/02
145.598
130.915
8.71
increase from 2006/07 to 2007/08
$
Conservation and
preservation of threatened
Capital
Works
and Infrastructure
and endangered
species
$3.0m
Admission Income 31%
NSW Recurrent
Grant 18%
Corporate
Services
Humanand
Resources
Collaborateive species Marketing
Communications
conservation and
management $2.8m
NSW Government
Capital
Allocation 24%
Preservation and
biodiversity and NSW
Biodiversity
Strategy $2.5m
Trading Sales
and Franchise
Revenue 10%
Other Zoo generated income
including sponsorship and foundation 17%
%
11.5m
Complete total of SPP
Trading Sales and
Franchise Revenue
$m
0
Total Cost of Social
Program Policy Activities
Allocation of Recurrent
Resources to Expense Types
Employee Expenses
including superannuation 52%
Public education and
awareness programs $3.2m
All other expenses 16%
Corporate
Services
Humanand
Resources
Marketing
Communications
Finance costs 4%
Marketing expenses 3%
$m
Animal welfare and
research 3%
0
Maintenance 7%
50
100
150
200
271.1
06/07
Guest Se
237.005
05/06
Depreciation and
writedown of asset vales 15%
Capital W
218.600
04/05
Corporate Services
190.741
03/04
Human Resources
02/03
145.598
130.915
01/02 Annual Report 2008 Taronga Conservation Society Australia Life Sciences and Research
00/01
2
120.705
13
Corpora
Human R
Marketin
Life Scie
Visitation
Year in Brief – Visitation
Origin of visitors
42%
Total Visitation
1,569,972
of visitors are from NSW (other than
Sydney)
visitors in 2007/08
Origin of visitors
Taronga Zoo
$m
0.0
07/08
06/07
0.5
1.0
1.5
1,569,972
NSW Sydney 30.6%
International 1.1%
Corporate
Services
Humanand
Resources
Marketing
Communications
Interstate 26.8%
NSW Sydney 55%
International 26%
Capita
1,587,881
05/06
1,517,710
04/05
1,515,437
03/04
2.0
Guest S
1,577,981
02/03
1,529,310
01/02
1,506,190
Interstate 10%
NSW Other 41.5%
NSW Other 9%
55
%
of visitors are from the Sydney region
26
%
International visitors
0.0
06/07
05/06
04/05
14
0.5
$m
1.0
1.5
2.0
Guest Services and Comm
Capital Works and Infrastr
Corporate Services
Corporate Services
Human Resources
Human Resources
Marketing and Communic
03/04
02/03
01/02
2007/08 Visitor Attendance
Visitor Ticketing Mix
1,569,972
people visit Taronga Zoo and Taronga Western Plains Zoo
General Admission 48.8%
Consolidated result
Free of Charge 16.4%
Paid attendance
Members 11.3%
Paid & FOC
attendance
Life Sciences
07/08and Research
06/07
Variance
Variance %
1,264,040
1,273,862
9,822
0.8%
1,569,972
1,608,706
38,734
2.4%
Corporate
Services
Humanand
Resources
Marketing
Communications
Taronga Zoo
Promotions 7.3%
Paid attendance1
1,078,865
1,148,403
69,538
6.1%
Discount Admission 6.9%
Paid & FOC
attendance2
1,339,356
1,367,329
27,973
2.0%
Groups incl. Schools 9.3%
Taronga Western
Plains Zoo
Paid attendance3
193,554
199,044
5,490
2.8%
Paid & FOC
attendance4
230,616
241,377
10,761
4.5%
1Paid attendance at Taronga Zoo includes Zoo Friends and Twilight Concerts
2Includes function guests
3Paid attendances at Taronga Western Plains Zoo includes Zoo Friends and Zoofari guests
4Includes function guests
Corporate Services
Human Resources
identity
A new identity
O
In January,
the Zoological
Parks Board
NSW was
replaced by the
new Taronga
Conservation
Society Australia.
Chosen after extensive nation
wide research, the new name
better describes our activities
and direction.
Australia is responsible for the
operation of Taronga and Taronga
Western Plains Zoos and is
regarded as a leader in the world
zoological community.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY JAMES ALCOCK
16
OurOuranimals,
plants
animals, plants
andandphysical
assets
physical assets
In December, Taronga Zoo’s remarkable Western
Lowland Gorilla group welcomed a brand new
addition to their family, when a tiny infant male
‘Fuzu’ was born to proud mother ‘Frala’. Fuzu is
an extremely valuable addition to world breeding
programs for gorillas, helping insure against
rapidly declining numbers of gorillas in Africa.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY RICK STEVENS
Performance Indicators
Collection species which are
classified as threatened
Taronga Zoo
Threatened species in
conservation programs
Taronga Zoo
Collection in conservation
programs
Taronga Zoo
07
08
26%
43%
26%
41%
44%
50%
46%
60%
11.5%
23%
11.8%
24.3%
Our animals,
plants and physical assets
Principal Areas
of Activity
Goals
Objectives
•• Collection Management and Display
Animal Collection
Animal Collection
•• To maintain best-practice in animal
care and husbandry,
•• Wildlife Rehabilitation
To ensure that the Zoos’ animals receive
the very best care and are displayed
to provide stimulating experiences that
promote learning and support for wildlife
and the environment.
•• Life Sciences Management
Physical Assets
•• Animal Watch and Behavioural
Enrichment
•• Capital Works and Planning
To achieve the highest design,
construction and maintenance standards
in order to enhance visitor experiences
and safeguard the wellbeing of the
Zoos’ animals, visitors and staff.
•• Contract Maintenance
Horticulture
•• Horticulture
To develop the Zoos’ landscapes
and botanic displays, interpret
natural relationships between plants
and animals and contribute to the
conservation and cultivation of plants.
•• Animal Records and Identification
•• Veterinary Services
•• Asset Management
•• To present the world’s premier display
of Australian native fauna,
•• To display a stimulating and diverse
representation of wildlife that is also
used as a conservation resource,
•• To apply the World Zoo Conservation
Strategy and the Taronga
Conservation Society Australia’s
Mission Statement,
•• To informatively and thoughtfully
present the animals to visitors,
•• To cooperate with other conservation,
education and research organisations.
Physical Assets
•• To achieve exhibit design excellence
and world best-practice in animal
presentation and welfare as well as
visitor and staff amenities and safety,
•• To ensure a holistic and consistent
approach to overall site design,
exhibits and logistics for visitors,
•• To implement best practice in
asset procurement, operation and
maintenance.
Horticulture
•• To provide a stimulating and
diverse botanic experience in line
with exhibits that showcase
bio-geographic regions,
•• To conserve and restore
plant communities,
•• To help provide dietary and
enrichment browse for the animals.
LEFT: Natacha became a surrogate Mum
to young Swamp Wallaby, ‘Janey’. Taronga
keepers have an excellent record of handrearing a range of native animals when they
become orphaned or their natural mothers
struggle to care for them.
photograph courtesy rick stevens
Taronga Zoo continued it commitment to
Australia’s struggling frog populations by
focusing on breeding and release programs
for the endangered Corroboree and
Booroolong Frogs.
right: PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY Mandy
McLellan. FAR RIGHT: PHOTOGRAPH
COURTESY Rick Stevens.
18
Life Sciences
Activities at
Taronga Zoo
Herpetofauna
The Herpetofauna division has been
heavily involved in the 2008 World
Zoos and Aquariums’ ‘Year of the Frog’
activities. Together with the Taronga
Scientific Research and Wildlife
Conservation Division, the Corroboree
Frog project, in collaboration with
the Department of Environment and
Climate Change (DECC), continues to
grow. The climate controlled container
now holds over 230 frogs and 60
tadpoles collected as eggs from the
wild earlier this year. The focus of this
conservation project has shifted from
a ‘grow up for release’, to a ‘keep for
breeding, re-introduce eggs back into
the wild’ project. The majority of these
frogs are from eggs collected in 2006
and as the Corroboree Frog requires
four to five years to mature, patience
is required. Next summer there will be
a small number of mature frogs, so
this will be the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia’s first chance to
breed this species. This is an extremely
important conservation project. Due to
the devastating chytrid fungus, without
captive breeding and recovery programs
the Corroboree Frog will be extinct in
the wild within one to three years.
The second frog project, also
in partnership with the DECC
and coordinated by the Taronga
Conservation Division is the Booroolong
Frog Conservation Project. A stream
dwelling frog from the western slopes
of the New South Wales ranges, it has
disappeared from approximately 90% of
its recognised habitat.
Australia has been requested by the
DECC to investigate and document the
captive husbandry and reproduction
of this species so that this information
is available should large scale captive
breeding and reintroduction of this
species be required in the future. Frogs
and metamorphs were collected from
Maragle Creek catchment in January
2007. All adults began to breed in
the spring of 2007 and husbandry
techniques are being documented. In
February, 608 metamorph Booroolong
Frogs from eight different spawns
were released at Maragle Creek,
Tumbarumba, NSW.
Importantly, Taronga Zoo’s diverse
display and collection of reptiles and
amphibians, combined with the daily
Keeper Talks continues to be a popular
conduit for public education about these
much misunderstood creatures.
Breeding highlights for this year include
Gila Monsters, Veiled Chameleons,
Arafura File Snakes, White-Lipped and
Dwarf Tree Frogs.
Birds
The Regent Honey-eater project
coordinated by the Taronga
Conservation Division has been a high
priority for the Bird Division. This is one
of the Taronga Conservation Society
Australia’s most successful conservation
breeding programs and has run for
over 10 years in conjunction with the
NSW and Victorian Governments and
other ARAZPA institutions, universities
and volunteer groups. Since the first
wild caught chick arrived at Taronga
in 1995 the Zoo’s captive breeding
program has been successful with 73
hatchings and many young have gone
to other institutions in the region along
with the knowledge to continue the
project. These breeding achievements
have developed a very stable and
genetically sound population of Regent
Honey-eaters. This year, there were
27 hatchlings. Most of these birds, and
additional birds from other participating
zoos, were included in a release program
in a national park in Chiltern, Victoria.
Bird Division staff traveled with the
birds to Victoria in late April to set up
the release site, maintain the birds in
temporary tents during acclimatisation
to the colder weather and assist with
the release. It was felt that if after 30
days subsequent to release over 25%
of the birds survived, this project could
be deemed a success. The field team
has reported that, so far, this release
is a success beyond all expectations
as at 32 days, 92% of the birds were
still alive. Other ongoing work with this
species includes morphometric studies.
It is hoped that Taronga Zoo will be able
to provide a useful tool to field workers
to enable them to sex birds quickly and
accurately in the wild.
The Helmeted Honey-eater program
has also been successful. Two chicks
hatched in the last season have been
moved to Healesville Sanctuary while
two breeding pairs remain at Taronga
Zoo, the only institution outside
Victoria to hold this species and the
only institution other than Healesville
Sanctuary to have bred the Helmeted
Honey-eater.
The bird team has bred 27 species
this year, the most notable being the
honey-eaters, the Australian Pelican and
Hooded Robins (both firsts for Taronga
Conservation Society Australia), Forest
Kingfishers (including successful hand
raising) as well as an Agouti, also cared
for by the Bird Division.
The Cassowaries have been temporarily
displayed in the Dingo exhibit where
they have attracted a good deal of
attention. Ongoing training with these
birds enabled them to be moved with
a minimum of fuss and continued work
with them will prepare the Cassowaries
for a smooth move to their new exhibit
later in the year.
Exotic Fauna
It has been another excellent year for
the Exotic Fauna Division. In January,
Senior Primate Keepers, Louise
Grossfeldt and Allan Schmidt were
invited to speak at the American Zoo
Association Species Survival Program
meeting on management of male
Chimpanzees – an indication of the
international standing of Taronga’s
animal management credentials.
Our animals,
Tasmania. The subsequent breeding
program has been a focal point for staff
for many months and a positive pouch
check in early June is a testament to
the efforts and continued dedication of
the team.
ABOVE: Both Zoos welcomed wild-caught
Tasmanian Devils as part of a national effort
involving multiple wildlife agencies which are
attempting to breed an insurance population of
healthy devils to safe guard against a complete
collapse of this iconic species in the wild.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY Rob Griffith –
Associated Press
The confirmation in February, of an
Asian Elephant pregnancy was a much
celebrated Australian first and is clear
evidence of the excellent management
and condition of the elephant herd.
The completion of the second elephant
facility at Taronga Zoo will further
enhance the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia’s commitment to this
important species.
Of particular note was the successful
breeding of the Binturong and Fennec
Fox, both of which are excellent
achievements and support the on-going
sustainability of the collection.
One of the most exciting acquisitions
was a pair of Pygmy Hippopotamus
from Melbourne and Adelaide Zoos.
This species is very scarce in the region
and it is hoped that they will have future
breeding success.
The transfer of Giraffe “Jimiyu” from
Taronga Western Plains Zoo was a much
publicised event. He is now well settled
into city life, as is, “Satu”, the new male
Sumatran Tiger, from Germany, via a stay
at Taronga Western Plains Zoo.
Australian Mammals
In December, the Australian Mammals
Division highlighted its continued
commitment to conservation with
the acquisition and housing of seven
Tasmanian Devils. The devils form part
of an insurance population dedicated
to help save the species from the
deadly facial tumour disease which has
devastated wild populations throughout
20
The ‘Australia’s Nightlife’ exhibit
continues to forge ahead with innovative
ideas. A recent upgrading of the Plains
Rat exhibit has provided both a new
display area which includes a series of
interconnecting tunnels and a new rodent
exercise wheel linked to an odometer
and counter, helping to educate the
public about how far these little rodents
can travel. Bilbies have also been in the
spotlight, with a new child friendly viewing
window being installed in the exhibit,
providing young visitors with a special
glimpse into the world of Bilbies.
Behind the scenes tours have continued
to increase along with requests for
special focus and VIP tours. Staff
members were also busy throughout
the year developing and delivering
new presentations on a diverse range
of subjects, from conservation related
issues to animal husbandry practices. An
Echidna Encounter was introduced for
the school holidays, a biodiversity talk
was created for Biodiversity Week and
the Dingoes were walked during the day
so Zoo visitors could meet them up close.
‘Backyard to Bush’
Taronga Zoo’s children focused and
sustainable living exhibit, ‘Backyard to
Bush’, celebrated its fifth anniversary in
April. This exhibit has continued to evolve
to meet the educational objectives of the
Zoo, community attitudes and knowledge
towards environmentally friendly
living and the visitor’s desire for close
encounters with animals.
Initiatives include the acquisition of two
dogs, one farm dog to round up the
sheep and ducks during the farm yard
show and one house dog to assist in
the key message of responsible pet
ownership. Both dogs have settled
in and are already popular additions.
Other initiatives include a water wise
garden display at the urban house with
engaging signage and a bush tucker
garden and signage showcasing this
important part of Aboriginal culture.
‘Backyard to Bush’ employed an
Aboriginal Keeper to assist in the
Aboriginal education and presentation
initiatives for the Zoos. This Keeper is
supported and assisted by the
two Aboriginal Education Officers
from Taronga Education Centre and
has been involved in the Zoos’
successful annual National Aboriginal
and Islander Day Observance
Committee (NAIDOC) celebrations.
A Taronga Education Centre visit
continues to be a highlight for VIP and
special guests to the Zoo. Many animals
have been added to the collection
including crocodiles, Diamond Pythons
and Bandicoots. The birth of a Shingleback Lizard, a first for Taronga Zoo, was
a highlight.
Animal Presentation
Bird Show
The QBE Bird Show celebrated its 10th
anniversary in September. It is estimated
that over seven million visitors have
enjoyed this spectacular presentation
since 1997. In this time, many birds
have ‘starred’ in the show, fulfilling their
roles by engaging visitors and providing
astonishing learning opportunities about
wildlife conservation. Some of these
include “Minka” the magnificent Whitebellied Sea Eagle who demonstrates the
negative effects humans can have on
wildlife, “Slammer”, the Black Breasted
Buzzard who has “slammed open”
hundreds of hand-made Emu ‘eggs’ and,
along with “Jo Jo” the Galah, has shown
the intelligence and instinctive nature
of birds.
This year also saw the debut of “Lesley”,
a young female Andean Condor who
provides an outstanding element to
the show as she soars down to stage
from a 20 metre high release point. If
the conditions are right, the condor can
be seen soaring for many minutes over
the amphitheatre, the Zoo and Sydney
Harbour showing off her spectacular,
three metre wingspan.
Other new additions to the show also
include a pre-recorded Aboriginal
‘Welcome to Country’ and Dreaming
story of ‘how the birds got their colours’.
Aboriginal Education Officer, Paul
Sinclair, recorded this with the Bird Show
team to pay respect to the Cammeragal
people and add an important indigenous
element to the show.
The donation boxes at the Bird Show not
only enable visitors to take immediate
action for conservation but have
raised over $40,000 for The Taronga
Foundation field conservation projects.
Marine Mammals
The media debut of ‘Great Southern
Oceans’ for the April school holidays
was a momentous event for the Marine
Mammals Department. It was the
culmination of over seven years of
planning and two years of working with
the Capital Works and Infrastructure
team on construction of this major exhibit.
‘Great Southern Oceans’, due to officially
opened in July 2008, continues to
amaze the marine keepers and visitors
alike. The underwater viewing of the
show seals, penguins and Leopard
Seals appears to be the highlight of this
magnificent new exhibit and the new
Seal Discovery Show is sure to prove
equally popular.
The transfer of animals from their
previous homes of at least 20 years into
the new exhibit went extremely smoothly.
Some seals walked from the old theatre
to their new home, the penguins were
transported in individual containers and
carried, some seals transported eagerly
on the back of a truck and some needed
to be craned. All settled immediately into
their new homes.
The keepers continue to develop
and improve their show presentation
techniques with the assistance of NIDA.
The training not only assists the keepers
with their performance skills but also
ensures that the education messages on
marine pollution problems and solutions,
the effects of climate change and
sustainable seafood choices are most
effectively presented.
In September, Taronga Marine Mammals
and Wildlife Hospital departments were
invited by NSW National Parks and
Wildlife Service (NPWS) to assist in
the rescue of two Leopard Seals off
Sydney beaches. Both seals, one male
and one female, were found exhausted,
in extremely poor condition and in need
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: 1. In April, Backyard
to Bush celebrated five years of educating
Zoo visitors about our rural, urban and outback
Australian landscape.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY Rick Stevens
2. Gabrielle Virgona, Keeper, Taronga Zoo:
“I find my job as keeper in the Backyard to
Bush area very rewarding. The most satisfying
aspect of my role is interacting with the visitors.
Every day you meet new people and are able to
increase their interest in our natural world.”
of immediate veterinary assistance. After
six months rehabilitation at Taronga
Zoo they can now be seen at ‘Great
Southern Oceans’. The Antarctic Treaty
does not permit release of these seals
so they will remain at the Zoo and assist
in vital research and understanding of
this unique Antarctic predator.
On a sad note, “Brooke” a female
Leopard Seal that had been at Taronga
Zoo for nine years, passed away
from pneumonia.
Samantha
Elton, Keeper, Taronga Zoo:
“I often get told that Zoo Keepers have the
most amazing job in the world and it’s true!
I feel privileged to work with such incredible
animals and be able to inspire and educate
visitors about our wildlife.”
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY Bobby Jo Vial
3. ‘Michie’ the Californian Sealion officially
opened the new Great Southern Oceans
enabling visitors to explore the edge of the
world where the land meets the sea and learn
about our unique marine animals.
Our animals,
Life Sciences
Activities at Taronga
Western Plains Zoo
•• The construction of the Tasmanian
Devil breeding facility, the
subsequent arrival of 12 devils
and commencement of breeding
introductions.
The Life Sciences team has not only
maintained daily animal operations,
husbandry, conditioning and breeding
programs but has also been involved in
other significant events and successes.
These include:
•• Species conditioning included crate
training a Giraffe, pet pack training
primates, weight training for Meerkats,
Small-clawed Otters and Cheetahs
and foot care training for the Greater
One Horned Rhinoceros. The team
also introduced two Black Rhinoceros
and conducted box conditioning
and transportation of two rhinos to
Monarto Zoo in South Australia.
•• The births of a male Plains Zebra foal
“Kwasi” and two male Giraffe calves,
“Tembi” and “Amani”.
•• The arrival in June of new bull Giraffe
from Monarto Zoo, which will add
diversity to the regional bloodline.
•• German bred Sumatran Tiger, “Satu”
was transported to Taronga on in
January to be introduced to the
Taronga bred female, “Jumilah”.
•• “Gerry” Giraffe, the herd patriarch who
had been hand-raised at Taronga Zoo,
passed away in December, having
provided an excellent legacy of four
male and four female offspring.
•• Three year old male Cheetahs,
“Jambo” and “Moyo” were transferred
to Hamilton Zoo, New Zealand in
August in for breeding purposes.
•• The Persian Onager herd produced a
male foal, “Touran” in December.
•• Scimitar Oryx births are rare regionally,
so the arrival of a new male calf in May
was a special event. Scimitar Oryx are
extinct in the wild and rely on ex-situbreeding and reintroduction for the
continued survival of the species.
•• Female White Rhinoceros, “Umqali”,
produced a female calf in April, the
TOP LEFT: Megan Lewis, Keeper, Taronga
Zoo: “I feel privileged that I have been given
the opportunity to work with such charismatic
animals. Everyday I’m amazed, inspired or
amused by what they show me. Being able to
work alongside and share these experiences
with the most passionate people I’ve met
makes my job both rewarding and fulfilling.”
LEFT: More precious than gold. In March,
‘Shiba’ welcomed a daughter into Taronga’s
world-renowned Chimpanzee group, a triumph
for the breeding program with wild chimps
facing increasing pressures.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY Mark Kolbe
TOP (THIS PAGE): Taronga’s Fennec Fox
family celebrated the arrival of a little male,
‘Tizga’, named after a town in Morocco, one of
the countries where these foxes, the smallest of
the worlds’ fox species, are found.
22
fourth female and the sixth offspring
produced from the group imported
from Kruger National Park in 2002.
•• The designs for two Giraffe restraint
chutes, one for the breeding exhibit
and one for the Savannah exhibit
were completed. These will improve
the health management of the herd,
especially for hoof trims.
•• In preparation for the imminent arrival
of a female African Wild Dog from
Hamilton Zoo, Keepers are integrating
the current females with the second
all-male group.
RIGHT: ‘Thembi’ the Giraffe calf captivated
the nation with over one million Australians
watching his birth and first tentative steps on
the Channel Seven program, The Zoo.
PhotoGRAPH COURTESY Tim Portas
FAR RIGHT: Rebecca Jones, Keeper,
Taronga Western Plains Zoo (pictured with
Cuddles the African Elephant): “I feel very
lucky to be able to work with the only African
Elephants in the region. Taking ‘Cuddles’ and
‘Yum Yum’ for their early morning walk out on
to Savannah Two is without a doubt a highlight
of every day.”
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY Channel
Seven – THE ZOO
•• The mixed species ‘African Savannah’
display has been expanded with
the addition of seven Eland, one
female Scimitar-horned Oryx and a
male Ostrich which had been held
off display. Crate training of “Mana”
Common Hippopotamus is under
way in preparation for a move to this
exhibit area.
Animal enrichment has been a key
area of focus for the division with
the establishment of an Enrichment
Committee which has worked on the
implementation of a range of initiatives
for the animals including a series of
enrichment presentations held over the
Easter weekend.
Keepers and maintenance staff have
worked closely together to showcase
Taronga Western Plains Zoo and this
has been highlighted to great effect in
Channel Seven’s The Zoo series.
In January, Taronga Western Plains Zoo
acquired two female Asian Elephants
“Arna” and “Gigi” from Stardust Circus.
They joined the Zoo’s resident female
Asian Elephant “Burma”. All three
elephants are around 55 years old.
After months of keeper-elephant
relationship building, patient training
and conditioning, “Arna” and “Gigi” have
settled into their new home. The keepers
perform regular skin and foot care
husbandry sessions with them. Both
elephants are popular with Zoo visitors.
time Registrar Position, Dr Cheryl
Sangster was employed as Diagnostic
Pathologist for the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia. Dr Sangster is a
Diplomate of the American College of
Veterinary Pathologists.
There were a number of highlights and
significant events for the veterinary team
this year, including:
•• The Taronga Wildlife Hospital made a
significant contribution to the Channel
Seven series The Zoo. The series
showcased the depth and breadth of
talent and expertise within the Wildlife
Hospital staff and across both Zoos.
•• The elephant breeding program
commenced with the natural
conception of Thong Dee. Pregnancy
was confirmed through hormone
monitoring conducted at the Taronga
Western Plains Zoo Reproductive
Laboratory and an ultrasound
conducted by Taronga’s veterinary
team. “Porntip” was artificially
Zoo’s veterinary team. This year saw
the passing of a number of older
animals including “Fifi” Chimpanzee
(age: approx. 60), “Cynthia” Kodiak
Bear (age: 31), “Natasha” Indian
Crested Porcupine (age: 24), “Salem”
Tasmanian Devil (age: seven), “Henry”
Gang Gang Cockatoo (age: 21), “Jack”
and “Sally” Dingoes (both 14 years
old), “Hope” Giraffe (age: 24), “Judy”
Orang-utan (age: 49), “Jollie” (age:
approx. 10), “Adori” (age: approx. 10),
“Carla” (age: 13) and “Yarri” (age: 15)
Koalas, a Golden Plover (age: 18) and
Aldabaran Tortoise (age: approx. 31).
•• Pregnancy was diagnosed in an
Australian Sea-lion using four
dimensional ultrasound imaging.
•• An insurance population of Tasmanian
Devils was quarantined at Taronga Zoo.
•• Mycobacteriosis continues to be an
insidious and worrying disease in the
Zoo collection. The epidemiology of
the disease and species of organisms
During the past 12 months as part
of Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s
comprehensive exercise and enrichment
regime for the African Elephants the
development of a structured walk
program has commenced. This provides
the elephants with further exercise and
enrichment opportunities, especially
important due to their age and physical
condition. It has been a great success
and a wonderful achievement for the
staff involved.
Veterinary Services at
Taronga Zoo
With the re-branding of the organisation
came an enhanced focus on wildlife
health, conservation and research.
The name Veterinary and Quarantine
Centre no longer described the broad
scope of activities of the hospital. The
name has been changed to Taronga
Wildlife Hospital. With the expansion
of the Australian Registry of Wildlife
Health through the creation of a full-
inseminated by specialists from the
Berlin Institute of Zoo and Wildlife
Research. Semen from donors at
Singapore and Melbourne Zoos were
imported for the procedure.
•• The health management of geriatric
animals is an important role of the
involved is being investigated with
a view to instituting appropriate
control measures.
•• The diagnosis of congestive
heart failure possibly caused by
encephalomyocarditis virus in a
Malayan Tapir, Nocardiosis in a
Our animals,
THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:
1. This year the Taronga Wildlife Hospital treated
over 704 animals including an impressive Green
Sea Turtle which was successfully released back
into the open ocean.
photograph courtesy Justin Lloyd –
Daily Telegraph
2. Veterinary staff at Taronga Western
Plains Zoo are utilising non-invasive infrared
thermography technology as part of the special
care program for three Asian Elephants and
two African elephants, all of which are in their
twilight years.
photograph courtesy MALCOLM WEST,
THERMAL INSPECTION SERVICES
3. Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s Senior
Veterinarian, Benn Bryant, takes a close look at
a Galapagos Tortoise.
photograph courtesy Channel
Seven – THE ZOO
4. A little Brush-tail Rock Wallaby gets a health
check from Taronga Zoo’s Senior Veterinarian,
Larry Vogelnest.
photograph courtesy
Claudia Bianchi
Leopard Seal, atherosclerosis in a
Wedge-tailed Eagle, malignant bladder
tumour in a Golden Cat, Salmonellosis
in Scaly-breasted Lorikeets and a
Sulphur-crested Cockatoo and an
outbreak of gapeworm in a flock of
Metallic Starlings.
•• Participation in the Regent Honeyeater release program through
pre-release quarantine isolation and
disease screening.
•• Assistance was given to the
Department of Environment, Water,
Heritage and the Arts, the Department
of Environment, Conservation and
Climate Change, Customs, the
Australian Quarantine and Inspection
Service, and the Royal Society for the
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in
their numerous confiscations of birds,
reptiles and insects.
Veterinary Services at
Taronga Western Plains Zoo built on
its reputation as a premier rhinoceros
breeding facility this year with the
generation of the world’s first embryo by
in-vitro fertilisation with eggs collected
from a living rhino. This achievement is
the culmination of a five year research
collaboration with Germany’s Institute
24
of Zoo Animal and Wildlife Research
(IZW) and represents a significant
breakthrough with respect to salvaging
the reproductive potential of genetically
important female rhinoceros with
infertility due to degenerative uterine
pathology. International recognition of
Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s expertise
with rhinoceros was evidenced by the
invitation extended to Zoo veterinarians
Benn Bryant and Tim Portas to join the
Asian Rhino Project Veterinary Support
Team for the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary
at Way Kambas National Park in
Indonesia. Taronga Western Plains Zoo
veterinarians are on standby for a rapid
response to health problems affecting
rhinoceros held at the sanctuary.
Biosecurity management is a significant
responsibility for Taronga Conservation
Society Australia’s veterinarians as they
oversee the veterinary health programs
in place at both Zoos. The importance
of this role was demonstrated during
the outbreak of disease due to exotic
equine influenza virus in Australia
this year. Taronga Western Plains
Zoo was surrounded by properties
holding infected animals requiring a
prompt veterinary response to impose
quarantine protocols and implement a
program of vaccination on the Zoo’s
wild equid collection. By these means
the Zoo remained equine influenza free
during the outbreak.
Taronga Western Plains Zoo Wildlife
Hospital plays a significant role in
delivering education outcomes on behalf
Australia. This year saw numerous
veterinary undergraduate students
undertake externships and gain
exposure to the field of conservation
zoological medicine. The Wildlife
Hospital also hosted Technical and
Further Education (TAFE) veterinary
nursing and secondary school students
as part of their studies. The residential
school for the Wildlife Health and
Population Management Masters degree
offered by the University of Sydney is
hosted annually by Taronga Western
Plains Zoo and the Wildlife Hospital staff
members are instrumental in organising
and delivering this event.
Animal Records and
Identification
In last year’s Annual Report it was
reported that the current animal
computer database known as Animal
Records Keeping System (ARKS), which
is administered by the International
Species Information System (ISIS), was
to be replaced by the new Zoological
Information Management System
(ZIMS). It was estimated that the
development stage of ZIMS was to be
completed by end of 2007. However due
to the complexity of this new application
ISIS has had to employ a new vendor to
complete the work and the new release
date is now late 2009. The Taronga
Conservation Society Australia will have
access to ZIMS sometime after testing
has been completed. Several staff
members of the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia have been involved
in the development of this important
software which will:
•• increase functionality, analysis and
reporting of data,
•• incorporate a wider range of animal
collection types including aquariums,
museums and scientific materials,
•• enhance and integrate the veterinary
management of zoological collections,
•• use global instead of
national standards,
•• use the most up to date technology;
and
•• provide access to global sharing
of real-time, web based animal
collection information in a single
database system.
The wildlife rehabilitation program
serves three important purposes.
Firstly, it addresses the welfare of an
animal that may be suffering from
injury, illness or has been orphaned.
Secondly, through education it provides
an opportunity to learn more about
wildlife and the environment. Finally,
it may contribute to the conservation
of species where a population is so
critically endangered that each individual
is crucial to its survival. Caring for wild
animals provides an opportunity to learn
more about their biology, natural history,
habitats, abundance,
behaviour, husbandry and
care. It inspires people
to develop compassion
and an understanding of
wildlife and the natural
environment. It educates
people, and it is perhaps
through this that wildlife
rescue and rehabilitation
contributes most to the
conservation of wildlife and
the environment.
This year 704 animals (253 mammals,
359 birds and 92 reptiles/amphibians)
were admitted to the Taronga Wildlife
Hospital. Of these, 48 mammals, 59
birds and 26 reptiles were returned to
the wild. The remainder was retained
in permanent care or euthanased.
With the unique expertise of Taronga
Wildlife Hospital staff, the facilities
and food supplies available, many
unusual and rare species are cared
for by the Hospital. This year these
included Powerful Owl, Kermadec Petrel,
Green Turtles, Yellow-bellied Glider,
Wildlife Rehabilitation
The wildlife rehabilitation program
provides a valuable service to the
community by accepting injured,
orphaned or sick native wildlife from
the public, wildlife rescue organisations
and the DECC. The primary aim of the
program is to treat, rehabilitate and
release animals back to the wild. Those
that cannot be released are euthanased
or maintained in permanent care (with
approval from DECC) in the Taronga
collections or other collections.
RIGHT: ‘Phoebe’ the Pelican returns to the
wild after recuperating at the Taronga Wildlife
Hospital. The Zoos treat hundreds of injured or
orphaned native animals annually ranging from
spectacular sea birds, to mammals and reptiles.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY
Danielle McGill
FAR RIGHT: Genevieve Holmes, Keeper,
Taronga Western Plains Zoo: “I enjoy working
outdoors with the animals and a highlight of
my time here would be my involvement in the
transfer of the Black Rhinos to Monarto in 2007
and the Black Rhino oocyte pick up (OPU)
procedure over the past three years. Seeing
how far we have come with this procedure is
really rewarding.”
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY
Mandy Quayle
Our animals,
Dollarbird, Australian Hobby, Pacific
Baza, Red-bellied Black-snake, Platypus,
Grey-headed Flying-fox, Wandering
Albatross, Southern Giant Petrel, Little
Corella, Great Crested Grebe, Leopard
Seal, Short-beaked Echidna and SubAntarctic Fur-seal.
Animal Watch
and Behavioural
Enrichment Program
This program works to monitor and
maintain psychological well-being in
the Zoos’ animal collection by collecting
behavioural data and facilitating
the implementation of a Zoo-wide
environmental enrichment program.
Led by Margaret Hawkins, notable
reports on the behavioural monitoring
of the elephants were submitted in
accord with the Administrative Appeals
Tribunal requirements to the Australian
Department of Environment, Water,
Heritage and the Arts and also the
NSW Department of Primary Industry
in November 2007. The collection of
data by direct and video observation
was continued at a high level for a full
twelve month period, December 2006
to November 2007. Analysis of data
summarised the exhibit use and activity
of the five elephants and explored
details of their resting patterns and
substrate preferences for resting, use
of exhibit features, ponds, mounds and
wallows and social dynamics. Analysis of
the data continues and papers for peer
reviewed scientific journals are being
written. The behavioural monitoring
of the elephants is being continued
on a regular but less intensive basis.
Results were made available on the
Zoos’ website and have shown that the
elephants prefer to sleep outside on the
sand mounds in the warmer weather
and inside the barn in the cooler
weather. The elephants slept for 5–7
hours, which is longer than recorded in
the wild.
Other significant projects undertaken
this year have been:
Pre and post occupancy studies
of marine species moved to ‘Great
Southern Oceans’: Activity and exhibit
use data has been collected on Little and
Fiordland Penguins and also the Leopard
Seals, Australian Fur Seals and Australian
Sea Lion before and after their moves to
the new complex. This data will provide
information about adaptations to the
change and also behavioural aspects in
relation to exhibit design.
Behavioural well-being of the Sun
Bears: The Sun Bears have been a long
term focus of behavioural monitoring
because of an ongoing pacing problem.
The studies have revealed that there is
a wide day to day variation in the level
of the stereotypic behaviour. With the
help of a University of NSW international
exchange student from the USA
investigations of factors that might be
responsible for this variation continue.
Environmental Enrichment: Programs for
carnivores and primates have continued
to be facilitated by the provision of
food enrichment according to keeper
schedules. A study was carried out
on the effects of exhibit furniture
26
changes on the activity of a variety of
species and the results presented at
the 8th International Conference on
Environmental Enrichment in Vienna. An
evaluation of enrichment was carried out
for the Brazilian Tapir.
Volunteer training: Seventeen volunteers
completed the two day Animal Watch
training course in April and a further
training day in the Animal Watch office.
They are now being rostered for Animal
Watch duties and will complete a three
month probationary period, with frequent
data accuracy checks, before becoming
qualified Animal Watch volunteers.
Capital Works and
Infrastructure (Cwi)
Capital Works And Planning
In Taronga Zoo
Treasury’s 2006 budget review of the
Master Plan Program led to the prompt
commitment of a significant number of
projects spread across the Zoo grounds.
Taking into account the importance of
visitor experience and animal welfare,
the Capital Works and Infrastructure
Division continued to implement work in
accordance with Taronga Zoo’s Master
Plan Implementation Strategy and the
NSW Government Procurement Policy
Reform. The Taronga Conservation
Society Australia undertakes the capital
works program with accreditation and
support from Treasury and works closely
with Treasury in procurement reform
and risk management. Major projects
undertaken in this financial year include:
‘Great Southern Oceans’
Australian and international media
previewed this $54 million exhibit and
research facility on 3 April with the
Premier of New South Wales, The
Honorable Morris Iemma, MP. The new
complex comprises numerous exhibits
for marine animals such as seals,
penguins and pelicans, as well as a 950
seat seal performance theatre, marine
life support systems and the Australian
Marine Mammal Research Centre
building. The exhibit’s audio, visual and
interactive multi-media interpretative
installations provide visitors with
significant educational experiences.
Now that this new facility has been
completed, there is a need for
reinstatement of vacated areas post
construction. Due to its location and the
site access, significant reinstatement
of the construction area and access
road is required. Infrastructure including
storm water drainage, runoff control
and access road improvements have
been carried out in the area east of
‘Great Southern Oceans’ to ensure
compatibility with the adjacent Master
Plan works.
Lower Entry Building Redevelopment
The $3.6 million refurbishment of the
heritage Lower Entry Building, returning
it to an entrance with amenities and
a shop for visitors, was completed in
December. The heritage building has
now been restored to its former glory
and the rearrangement and upgrade
of the circulation route enables visitors
to appreciate the refurbished building
and enjoy the underwater viewing of
‘Seal Cove’, the retail facilities and
the amenities. The refurbishment of
this building has been timed to assist
visitor access and egress during the
construction of the Top Entrance and
Car Park redevelopment.
Male Elephant Holding Facility
Construction of the holding facility
for “Gung”, Taronga Zoo’s male Asian
Elephant, commenced in October and
complies with the decision(s) set by
the Australian Administrative Appeals
Tribunal on elephant importation. The
barn building will be a single storey
structure up to 9.3 m high, located
adjacent to the existing heritage
Elephant Temple. To ensure a speedy
construction, the building will be
constructed of precast concrete textured
and patterned panels. The exercise yard
and paddock will have water bodies,
earth mounds and a mud bath. In line
with the shade strategy, a 30m diameter
heritage fig tree (Ficus rubiginosa)
was transplanted and repositioned
approximately 70 metres from its
original location within the site. This
was successfully carried out in February
by tracking and rolling. It is envisaged
that this facility will be completed by
December 2008.
Taronga Zoo Upper Entry Plaza, Car
Park and Outer Plaza
This $52 million redevelopment of
the Taronga Zoo entry is divided into
the outer plaza and car park and the
upper entry inner plaza. Construction of
the outer plaza including the car park
structure and the bus bay terminus,
together with the associated civil,
landscaping and services commenced
in February. Construction of the car
park building progressed well but the
services work was hindered by some of
the essential services along Bradleys
Head Road.
The inner plaza comprises new buildings
including ticketing, retail and amenities,
alterations to and refurbishment of
heritage buildings, extensive landscaping,
paving and installation of services. It is
expected that construction of the inner
plaza will commence in 2009.
Taronga Zoo Wastewater Treatment
Plant Upgrade under Water
Savings Fund
An upgrade of the Taronga Zoo
Wastewater Treatment Plant as part
of an initiative to reduce potable water
consumption in metropolitan Sydney
commenced in May 2007. This
$1.3 million project with the support
of $0.63 million from the NSW
Government Climate Change Fund
comprises the installation of new
280 kL/day microfiltration unit
and treatment process equipment.
Substantial progress was made
during the year. A second 500 kL/
day stormwater holding tank is under
construction and is expected to be
commissioned in late 2008. The project
will provide a reliable recycled water
supply to ensure estimated long term
average savings of 200 kL/day of
potable water annually.
‘Roar and Snore’ Education Precinct
The growing success of the ‘Roar and
Snore’ overnight program at Taronga
Zoo has lead to the development of
new harbourside amenities in the
western part of the Zoo. The $1.3 million
project has been designed to meet the
requirements for Eco Tourism Australia
and promote the ‘green’ nature of
the camping experience. The project
comprises tent accommodation and an
amenities block and incorporates solar
power and recycled water systems. The
project is expected to be completed in
late 2008.
TOP LEFT: Michael Poon, Contracts
Manager, Capital Works and Infrastructure:
“One of the challenges in our Master Plan
delivery is about getting the construction
industry to be aware of our animals and the
visitors’ needs. It is a sensitive balancing act
and makes the job interesting”.
LEFT: Taronga Western Plains Zoo celebrated
Easter with themed enrichment activities for
a number of different animals. Here, Siamang
Apes ‘Puteri’ and ‘Chanee’, investigate the
contents of an Easter bag.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY Shallon
McReaddie
ABOVE: Great Southern Oceans is the fourth
major redevelopment project Taronga Zoo has
undertaken since the redevelopment Master
Plan was drawn up for both Zoos in 2000.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY Bob Pierce –
sydney morning herald
Various Exhibits
A number of off-exhibit holding
facilities including for Tasmanian Devils,
Red Pandas and Cassowary have
been developed to support species
management and the organisation’s
commitment to conservation and
breeding programs. The Moore Park
Aviary was redeveloped as part of the
heritage management commitments
under Master Plan Implementation.
Support Areas, Services and
Utilities Upgrades
The Master Plan has identified the
need to upgrade services including
the electrical reticulation, emergency
power supply, the water services, the
fire hydrant services and the recycled
water services. Many upgrades of
these services have been implemented.
Plans for a stormwater pumping station
for the eastern part of the Zoo and
fire management services are being
developed for implementation next year.
A number of amenities in the service
area of the Taronga Zoo were also
upgraded to ensure operational support
and business continuity.
Facilities and Infrastructure
Maintenance
The Asset Maintenance Program
(AMSP) was carried out by a team of
Trades and Horticultural staff, external
Contractors, Operations Managers,
Project Managers and the Facilities and
Infrastructure Manager, working on the
following:
Our animals,
Strategic Maintenance
Visitor Facility Enhancements
Strategic planning continued with a
review of the 2006 AMSP to maximise
maintenance within the current funding
levels. Audits of existing contracts
related to fire prevention services,
updates of infrastructure drawings
and development of plans for fleet
management, asbestos management,
termite control and high voltage safety
management were carried out.
The Taronga Centre received a facelift
to the entry area with cleaning of the
concrete facade, rendering and painting
of walls and resurfacing of the roadway.
The Treetop Cafe kitchen and servery
areas were upgraded and the Beastro
and Rotunda repainted. A 22,500 hour
major service for the Sky Safari cable
car system is scheduled for August
2008 with the parts procured in this
financial year as preparation.
Computerised Maintenance
Management System (CMMS)
A CMMS has been implemented based
upon Archibus FM to provide a more
efficient internal maintenance work
request system and better recording
of scheduled maintenance information
for the routine maintenance service
contracts. Substantial development
was undertaken including an extensive
condition based audit of all assets
related to the routine maintenance
service contracts.
General Maintenance
General maintenance work included
urgent repairs and maintenance, ground
refurbishments, painting, servicing of
electrical systems, water supply systems
and the recycled water treatment plant,
modifications of water controls for ‘Wild
Asia’ water bodies, clean out of gorilla
and elephant moats, glass replacements,
roof leak repairs, resurfacing of
roadways and animal exhibit yards and
refurbishment of the Animal Wildlife
Health Network building.
Routine Maintenance
Service Contracts
Period contracts continued for routine
and corrective maintenance by specialist
contractors to service Taronga Zoo’s
lifts, escalators, pumps, air conditioning,
refrigeration and the perimeter fox
fence. Work is proceeding on upgrading
the public address systems, audio visual,
soundscape and closed circuit television
systems to enable maintenance of this
infrastructure to be included in future
service contracts.
Master Plan Maintenance
Additional planned maintenance,
including the construction of shade
structures and the re-surfacing of yard
and paddocks, was provided for the
completed Master Plan Capital Works
projects at ‘Backyard to Bush’, ‘Wild Asia’,
Taronga Food Market, the Education
Centre and ‘Great Southern Oceans’.
28
O
Exhibit Enhancement
Significant projects included the
construction of a new Andean Condor
release tower for the Bird Show, renewal
and improvements of the Chimpanzees’
fallen forest, upgrade of the den slides
at the ‘Gorilla Forest’, repairs to the
Rainforest Aviary structure, upgrades
at the Nocturnal House, modifications
to the former cats building to hold
Tasmanian Devils and reconstruction
of the Tahr Mountain viewing platform
to provide keeper access at the rear of
the exhibit. Major animal movements
included relocation of seals to ‘Great
Southern Oceans’ and transport of a
giraffe from Dubbo to Sydney.
The most significant maintenance
project completed this financial year at
Taronga Western Plains Zoo was the
upgrade to the White Rhinoceros off
exhibit holding yards. The deteriorated
timber fencing was removed and
replaced with steel fencing that will
require minimal maintenance for many
years to come.
Additional maintenance projects
included the upgrade to the reservoir
pumps and filtration equipment,
resurfacing of vehicle area at the
elephant exhibit, new shade sails for
the elephant holding yard, draining
and de-silting of the African Wild
Dogs moat, upgrading power to the
Black Rhinoceros shelters, updating
of the master keying system and the
commissioning of a new radio station for
the hand held radios at Taronga Western
Plains Zoo.
Recognition for Taronga Zoo’s
Heritage Asset Management
Australia submitted three entries to
the 2008 NSW National Trust Energy
Australia Heritage Awards and won
two major awards. The first award was
received for the Taronga Zoo Master
ABOVE: Jodie Milton, Vet Nurse, Taronga
Western Plains Zoo: “During the past 17 years
working at both Zoos I have been very fortunate
to have been able to pursue my interest in
hand-raising native and exotic neonates. One
of the many highlights being participating in
the hand raising of “Amira” the Southern White
Rhino calf and more recently “Bou” the Scimitar
horned Oryx calf.”
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY jane burgess
Plan and Maintenance Programs
submitted in the development category
for Corporate/Government. The entry
was not for a single project but focused
on the program of works associated with
the implementation of the Master Plan
and ongoing maintenance. Particular
emphasis was given to the integration of
heritage into the overall management of
the site and approaching it strategically
under the guidance and assistance from
the Zoo’s in-house Heritage Specialist.
The major heritage achievements upon
which the award was based included the
restoration of the iconic Lower Entrance
Building, the refurbishment of the Upper
Aquarium Building foyer, the intricate
reconstruction of the Moore Park Aviary
which is once more home to a colourful
menagerie of birds and a new landscape
theme for the Heritage Walk, including
the restoration of sandstone elements.
The second award was received
for the Taronga Zoo Landscape
Management Plan in the Conservation
Management Plans category for
Corporate/ Government. The Landscape
Management Plan is a significant
instrument identifying the valuable
array of heritage landscape items
across the site for which policies to
guide future decisions and works have
been prepared to meet the challenge
of retaining the significance and
contribution these elements make to the
cultural landscape that is Taronga Zoo.
OurOurconservation
conservation,
research
and
educaresearch and
education
Taronga Zoo continues its conservation efforts
for the critically endangered Corroboree Frog.
Without captive breeding programs this vibrantly
colourful native frog may be extinct within one to
three years.
07
08
90,235
12,873
91,109
13,810
Taronga Zoo
32,495
720
32,164
0
Publications in referred journals
22
12
Conference and Workshop Proceedings
delivered by Staff (also including
workshops convened)
38
49
Educational Lectures and Public Presentations
delivered by Staff
166
146
Students visiting on a School Excursion
Taronga Zoo
People participating in Public/ Outreach
Education Programs
Our conservation,
research and education
Principal areas
of activity
•• Conservation and Research Projects
•• Species Management Programs
•• Australian Shark Attack File
•• Australian Marine Mammal Research
Centre
•• Australian Wildlife Health Network
•• Australian Registry of Wildlife Health
•• The Australasian Conservation
Genetics Centre
•• Public Education
•• School Education
Goals
Objectives
Conservation and Research
Programs
Conservation and
Research Programs
To advance understanding, appreciation,
preservation, and protection of
biodiversity through leadership,
partnership and example.
•• To contribute to the conservation and
preservation of endangered Australian
wildlife and conservation of selected
endangered species of exotic wildlife.
Education Programs
Education Programs
To inspire and empower people
to contribute to conservation by
providing experiences that encourage
understanding and respect for the
environment through knowledge and
appreciation of living things.
•• To develop awareness to inspire
people to make a personal
contribution to conservation,
•• To extend the concept of our audience
beyond the boundary of our Zoos, and
•• To adopt an integrated approach to
Zoo education programs.
LEFT: ‘Parum’ Taronga’s male Tree Kangaroo is
given a training session by his dedicated keeper,
Tony Britt- Lewis, demonstrating the extraordinary
bond between the keepers and the animals in
their care.
PhotoGRAPH COURTESY
Amanda McLellan
RIGHT: ‘Kashan’ the Persian Onager welcomed
little ‘Touran’ into the world in December. His birth
was particularly significant with less than 500 of
the species remaining in the wild.
PhotoGRAPH COURTESY
Shallon McReaddie
30
Conservation and
Research Programs
Taronga Zoo Species
Management and Research
Projects
Australian Shark Attack File (ASAF)
Since 1984, the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia has supported the
development and maintenance of the
ASAF, which is held at Taronga Zoo.
Summary information can be accessed
on the Zoo’s web page at http://www.
taronga.org.au. The ASAF cooperates
with the International Shark Attack File.
John West, Manager, Life Sciences
Operations, is the coordinator of the
Australian file and is also a member of
the International Shark Attack Committee.
There were 16 new shark attack cases
with one fatality recorded this year. An
average of three hours per week is spent
investigating and updating the file when
new shark attack cases are reported
and responding to enquiries from the
media and public. During this year there
were over 355 written and telephone
requests for information from the media,
university researchers, government
agencies, book publishers, international
and general public enquiries. Mr West
was invited to again serve on the IUCN
SSC Shark Specialist Group and by the
NSW Minister for Primary Industries
(DPI) to participate in a scientific panel
of shark experts to review best-practice
in mitigating the risk of shark attacks in
New South Wales.
Australian Marine Mammal Research
Centre (AMMRC)
The AMMRC has become a joint
initiative of the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia and The University
of New South Wales (UNSW) building
upon the collaborative research
relationship that was initially developed
with The University of Sydney. This
was an eventful year for the AMMRC
team. In October, AMMRC moved into
new offices and laboratory facilities in
the ‘Great Southern Oceans’ complex
which are custom designed to facilitate
biological studies of marine mammals. In
December, the team left for Antarctica
for the first of the planned trips as
part of international, multidisciplinary
collaborations of the International Polar
Year. During this successful field trip,
23 Leopard Seals were sedated and
a variety of samples including faeces,
blood and whisker particles were
collected. These samples will assist
with numerous PhD research programs
including an AMMRC program which
determines what food sources are
available to Leopard Seals by examining
what they devour via their whiskers.
The Director of the AMMRC, Dr Tracey
Rogers, is also now a senior lecturer
at the UNSW. She will further expand
the work of the AMMRC along with
colleagues, Dr. Carolyn Hogg and
Michaela Ciaglia, who also took up
positions at the UNSW. In June, Dr.
David Slip B.Sc., MS, PhD was appointed
to the position of Research Biologist
AMMRC located at Taronga Zoo’s ‘Great
Southern Oceans’.
Research programs undertaken this year
include:
Impacts of noise on marine wildlife:
quantifying hearing sensitivity
Collaborators: Defence Science and
Technology Organisation (DSTO), AlfredWegner Institute for Polar and Marine
Research (Germany), Instituto Antártico
Argentino (Argentinean Antarctic
Division), Harvard Medical School
(USA), and Woods Hole Oceanographic
Institute (USA). Sound loses little energy
as it travels through water, making it
ideal for marine mammals and humans
to use acoustic communication. Simple
vocalisations through to complex songs
are believed to coordinate breeding
and other social behaviours among
marine mammals and hearing is often
highly sensitive. Studies examining
potential impacts of human-induced
noise on Southern Hemisphere seals
will be conducted with trained captive
Leopard Seals.
Development of acoustic surveys
to monitor apex predators over
large areas:
Collaborators: DSTO, Australian Antarctic
Division. The method of surveying the
distribution and abundance of marine
mammals acoustically (using their
underwater vocalisations) is relatively
new. Marine mammals are often difficult
to locate at sea, however many marine
mammals make loud characteristic
vocalisations underwater and sound
propagates effectively through the ocean.
Acoustic surveying methods have the
advantage of being non-interfering,
require less manpower and result in a
complete and permanent record. The
automation of data collection and analysis
such as distinguishing, classifying,
counting and timing vocalisations makes
acoustic surveying technology a powerful
tool for establishing habitat preference,
species distribution and abundance in the
marine environment.
Spatial behaviour of Leopard Seals
in a geographic, seasonal and intersexual context.
Collaborators: Instituto Antártico
Argentino. The distribution of Leopard
Seals was believed to be influenced
significantly by the annual expansion
and contraction of the pack ice
surrounding the Antarctic continent.
Higher densities of Leopard Seals were
found on broken ice near the pack ice
edge. Furthermore, immature seals
are known to gather on sub-Antarctic
islands and previously this was believed
to coincide with the northern movement
of adult seals during late autumn and
winter when the ice expands. The spatial
movements of female Leopard Seals
monitored over autumn and winter have
not followed this pattern. Instead of
moving north to the outer edge of the
pack ice, seals remained close to their
original tagging site in Prydz Bay. The
spatial movements of male Leopard
Seals have yet to be determined. This
study follows the movements of male
Leopard Seals through the austral
spring/summer and then autumn/winter.
Using satellite trackers to determine the
spatial movements of Leopard Seals in
Prydz Bay, Eastern Antarctica and the
Antarctic Peninsula will provide some
indication of any geographic, seasonal,
age-related and inter-sexual differences
in Leopard Seal movements.
Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies
Australia has been participating in an
ARAZPA Recovery Program for Brushtailed Rock-wallabies and is committed,
along with other ARAZPA institutions,
to provide sufficient holding space and
resources to meet the needs of this
Recovery Program as they are identified
in the Captive Management Plan. The
Taronga Conservation Society Australia’s
initial role in this recovery program was
Our conservation,
to provide keepers and veterinarians
to assist with the management of the
Jenolan Caves and Southern Highlands
populations and to act in an advocacy
role by displaying rock-wallabies.
However, this role has expanded and the
is now aiming to breed the rockwallabies for release.
Tasmanian Devils
Australia has made a commitment to 30
spaces for the breeding of an insurance
population of Tasmanian Devils. This
population on the mainland of Australia
will significantly contribute to the
preservation of this species. Tasmanian
Devils have been in continuous decline
since the mid-1990s due to the ravages
of Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD).
The scientific consensus is that DFTD
is a transmissible cancer. Death by
starvation and breakdown of bodily
functions appears to occur in every case,
usually within a year. The persistence of
the disease at low population densities
suggests that extinction of the devil
in its natural range will occur within a
timeframe of 25 years. As a direct result
of DFTD the Tasmanian Devil is listed
as endangered under Tasmanian and
national legislation. Tasmanian Devils
breed well in captivity and an insurance
population strategy was compiled
in cooperation with the Department
of Primary Industries and Water and
ARAZPA. Two devils were acquired in
October, another six arrived in November
and the first breeding occurred in June.
Sydney Harbour Little
Penguin Project
Between 2004 and 2007 a
translocation trial to assess the
feasibility of using fledgling-aged
wild bred and captive bred birds to
re-establish breeding pairs within
Sydney Harbour National Park occurred.
During this period Taronga Zoo provided
19 birds for release. Unfortunately, the
numbers of birds from both sources
were inadequate to meaningfully assess
the return rate of translocated birds and
the project has concluded.
Global Elephant
Management Program
William Meikle, the Zoos’ General
Manager Scientific Research and Wildlife
Conservation, is also the ARAZPA
Asian Elephant Species Coordinator
and participated in the Global Elephant
32
Management Program meeting in
Austria during July. The matters
addressed included care, veterinary and
management issues to be resolved in
order to optimise well-being, decrease
mortality, maximise reproduction and
facilitate population management.
ARAZPA is very well regarded by
international zoos for its regional planning
and cooperation between zoos. Much of
the material that was brought together at
the meeting for submission to the World
Association of Zoos and Aquaria (WAZA)
was built upon materials that had been
generated by ARAZPA, Taronga Zoo and
Melbourne Zoo during the recent elephant
importation. The submission led to Asian
and African Elephant becoming the first
approved global management programs,
strengthening the coordinated cooperation
and consistency between regions and
international management programs.
Western Lowland Gorilla
Two male Western Lowland Gorillas,
“Haoko” (14yrs) and “Shabani” (10yrs)
were transferred respectively to Ueno
Zoo and Nagoya Higashiyama Zoo,
Japan at the end of June 2007. In July,
Nagoya Senior Curator, Erna Walraven,
traveled to Japan to assist with finalising
settling arrangements. After both males
had completed their stipulated month
quarantine, Taronga primate keeper
Amanda McLellan returned to Ueno Zoo
(4–10 August) and Louise Grossfeldt
and Melissa Beaven returned to Nagoya
Higashiyama Zoo (4–14 August) to
coordinate and support the introduction
of “Haoko” and “Shabani” to their
new groups. The importance of a well
managed captive breeding program for
Western Lowland Gorilla populations
increases as the species has been
severely decimated in the wild over the
last 30 years through disease and the
bush meat trade.
Australia’s Scientific Research and
Wildlife Conservation Division also
coordinated the following projects*:
•• Regent Honey-eater Recovery Program
•• Helmeted Honey-eater
Recovery Project
•• Corroboree Frog Recovery Program
•• Booroolong Frog Conservation Project
*Details of the above projects can be found in
the Herpetofauna and Bird Department sections
of this report.
General
Australia provided assistance, by way of
funds, staff or supplies, to a number of
conservation-related activities, including:
•• Urban possums – Ms Nichola Hill, a
post-graduate student at Macquarie
University, continued undertaking her
PhD study on the ecology, behaviour
and health status of Brush-tailed
Possums, in and around Taronga Zoo,
in a collaborative venture between
Macquarie University and Taronga
Zoo. This project is supported by an
Australian Research Council (ARC)
linkage grant.
Other student research projects
occurring at the Zoos include:
•• Ms Katie McShea, University of
Sydney, Masters of Wildlife Health
and Population Management student
is collating veterinary records for big
cats at Taronga Zoo (current and
historical) with particular reference
to age, family history, immunisation,
disease and parasitological history
to identify any particular disease
processes or veterinary problems in
the different species. This information
will be combined with information
gained from other zoos in the region.
•• Ms Rachel Strauss, University of New
South Wales, Study Abroad Program
(USA) is exploring the numbers,
types of health issues, trends across
season, year, species or geographic
collection area of the many marine
animals taken in and cared for by
Taronga’s Wildlife Hospital over
the past 20 years. Zoo supervisors:
Rebecca Spindler, Elizabeth Hall.
•• Ms Brittany Traenkner, University
of New South Wales, Study Abroad
Program (USA) is testing the
hypotheses that enrichment has
an effect on stereotypic behaviour
which can occur as a result of
an oversimplified environment.
Enrichment is often used to increase
the complexity of the target animal’s
environment. However, enrichment
timed to coincide with the repetitive
behaviour in order to interrupt the
cycle may be seen as a reward by
the animal and may actually increase
stereotypic behaviour. Zoo supervisor:
Margaret Hawkins.
•• Peta Low, University of Sydney, 2nd
year Advanced Zoology is studying
the use of spider silk as nest binding
material by birds such as Regent
Honey-eaters. In the past, Taronga
keepers have collected spider silk
from around the Zoo for these birds to
use for their nests. The Bird Division
has now established small enclosures
to maintain spiders and harvest the
silk. This opens up an opportunity to
investigate this behaviour in Regent
Honey-eaters and determine web
type preference for nest building. Zoo
supervisor: Warrick Angus.
•• Shawna Foo, University of Sydney,
2nd year Advanced Zoology is
studying the Java Sparrows in the
Wetlands Aviary at Taronga Zoo. This
population is managed as a ‘group’
(no specimen records) and individuals
are identified only by a colour band
particular to year of hatch. The colony
was founded with 70 specimens in
2005 and now stands at about 250
birds with the preferred number being
150. The population requires analysis
to determine the required recruitment
rate to maintain a stable population.
Zoo supervisor: Christopher Hibbard.
•• Flora and Fauna International –
program to reduce the incidence
of human-elephant conflict using
the Conservation Response Unit
in Indonesia.
•• Biodiversity and Elephant Conservation
Trust – application of an awareness
and attitude changing program aimed
at children in Sri Lanka.
•• Rainforest Rescue – Revegetation of
the Daintree Rainforest by volunteers.
•• Cheetah Conservation Botswana –
Involvement in a program to reduce
predation of livestock by Cheetah
and improve local communities’
perceptions of Cheetah.
•• Endangered Primate Rescue Centre –
Reintroduction of captive-bred Hatinh
Langurs – the next steps in a
reintroduction program in Cuc
Phuong, Vietnam.
as a necessary step to lobbying
governments for the creation of a
national park.
•• Department of Environment and
Climate Change – Establishing
artificial ponds in situ to allow
recruitment of Corroboree Frogs in a
chytrid fungus-free environment.
•• Asian Turtle Conservation Network
– Education and awareness raising
in Cuc Phuong, Vietnam to stem the
illegal trade in native turtles.
•• Fijian Crested Iguanas – Dr Peter
Harlow’s project to reduce threats
or translocation of two genetically
distinct populations of these iguanas
in order to save the populations.
•• National Parks Association – Fauna
Surveys in River Redgum State
Forests (Red Gum Icon Project)
•• Elizabeth Burgess, PhD candidate,
University of Queensland is
completing part of her PhD with
Tamara Keeley in the reproductive
laboratories at Taronga Western Plains
Zoo examining Dugong reproductive
and corticosterone hormones in wild
and captive populations to better
understand this species’ biology. Zoo
Supervisor: Tamara Keeley.
Conservation Field Grants
For the first six years a commitment was
made to focus The Taronga Foundation’s
field conservation fundraising on six
key endangered species with exhibits
being developed in the first phase of
the Master Plan. These included Asian
Elephant, Asian turtles, Silvery Gibbons,
Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies, Sumatran
Tigers and Little Penguins. Contributions
to these and other field conservation
projects over the last six years have
totaled more than $500,000.
Applications were sought and 18
proposals were received, requesting a
total of $276,513 by April. The voting
members of the conservation committee
drawn from across the organisation
objectively assessed and prioritised each
application. The result of the process
saw funding awarded to nine projects
ranging from $2,000 to $8,500 to the
following approved projects:
LEFT: Rebecca Spindler – Manager, Research
and Conservation
I am loving being part of the team at Taronga.
Each day I have the pleasure of talking with
people who are passionate about conserving
key species and ecosystems, zoo staff and their
collaborators, and they are always fascinating,
great people.
photograph courtesy Bobby Jo Vial
Our conservation,
Species Management and
Research Projects
This year has been an eventful and
pivotal one for the animal collection
program at Taronga Western Plains Zoo
with the establishment of two significant
native species recovery programs, the
unexpected acquisition of two Asian
Elephants and a busy schedule of
animal transfers to support Master Plan
redevelopment and regional breeding
plans. A new collection plan will serve
strengthen the Zoo’s African theme
and conservation projects. Concurrently
work on the Master Plan projects will
deliver improved exhibits and animal
management facilities.
Tasmanian Devils
The highlight has been the Zoo’s
major contribution to the Tasmanian
Devil Insurance Population. The former
wombat breeding centre was redesigned
and transformed by staff into a new
breeding complex which received 12
devils from Tasmania and one from
Taronga Zoo. A second devil facility for
a further 12 animals has been designed
and should be ready to take animals at
the end of 2008.
Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies
Another focus has been Taronga Western
Plains Zoo’s participation in the NSW
Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby Recovery
Program. Three females and one male
have arrived as initial founders in the
captive management population which
will eventually provide animals for release
to the wild remnant populations in the
Shoalhaven, the Blue Mountains, the
Warrumbungles and the Hunter Valley.
Ex-Circus Asian Elephants
Two 50 year ex-circus Asian elephants
were acquired after they were offered to
the Zoo by their owners, Stardust Circus,
following behavioural issues and the
death of a circus worker. A co-operative
TOP LEFT: Tamara Keely – Reproductive
Technician, Taronga Western Plains Zoo:
“A definite highlight of my year was determining
the timing of both Artificial Inseminations for
Asian Elephants in Australia and also being
part of an amazing collaboration effort to
produce the world’s first Black Rhino embryo.”
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY MANDY QUAYLE
LEFT: Former circus elephants, ‘Arna’
and ‘Gigi’, explore Taronga Western Plains
Zoo where they will live out their twilight
years alongside the Zoo’s other Asian
Elephant, ‘Burma’.
PhotoGRAPH COURTESY
Shallon McReaddie
RIGHT: (on the left hand side)
Karrie Rose, Manager, Australian
Registry of Wildlife Health: “I get paid by the
Zoo, but work with free ranging wildlife. My
job provides the opportunity to define wildlife
health and investigate disease.
Ultimately, we want to be able to detect
disease in wildlife before it makes the
jump to livestock, humans, or threatens the
sustainability of wildlife populations.”
RIGHT: (on the right hand side): Cheryl
Sangster, Veterinary Pathologist: “Working at
Taronga is like a dream come true. Within my
position I’m faced with fascinating challenges
and the opportunity to provide valuable
information and results, which aid in the care of
our collection animals and Australia’s wildlife.”
PhotoGRAPH COURTESY Bobby Jo Vial
34
regional approach was taken in
assessing this offer of animals into the
ARAZPA program, and other Australian
elephant holders sent their senior
staff to assist Taronga Western Plains
Zoo with behavioural assessments of
“Arna” and “Gigi”. Both females are
post reproductive and therefore cannot
contribute to the breeding program,
however, Zoo staff will use their
expertise to care for these animals as
they enter their twilight years.
For further information on Species
Management Plans please refer to
the reporting section regarding Life
Sciences Activities at Taronga Western
Plains Zoo.
The Reproductive Laboratory at
The services provided to the region’s
zoos and universities continued to grow
this year. The laboratory monitored the
reproductive and corticoid hormones for
both native and exotic species within
Australia and for other Australian zoos.
The hormone analysis was used to
monitor stress, reproductive cycles,
determine pregnancy and to monitor
reproductive status for management
and research purposes. The laboratory
was responsible for determination of
the timing of the elephant artificial
inseminations at both Taronga Zoo and
Melbourne Zoo.
The laboratory was integral to a variety
of research projects including:
•• The examination of the reproductive
status of White Rhinos in Australasian
zoos. This project is a pilot study
investigating the rate of reproductive
failure and possible mechanisms
governing the success of the region’s
White Rhino breeding program.
Results from this one year study will
be used to identify the reproductive
status of captive individuals and
design a more intensive research
program to address reduced
reproduction rates. Hormone analysis
of rhinos in Australian zoos was
conducted by volunteer, Chloe Lester,
and the project is in collaboration with
Scimitar Scientific Ltd, New Zealand.
•• The monitoring corticoids and
reproductive hormones during
transport and acclimatisation in Asian
Elephants (in collaboration with
Melbourne Zoo). This study monitors
the effects of transport on stress
levels and reproductive function
and the ability of elephants to cope
with and acclimatise to transport
conditions and novel environments.
This research will also examine
methods of non-invasive monitoring
of stress in Asian Elephants for future
use. Hormone analysis of nine months
worth of sampling has begun.
•• The determination of the reproductive
endocrinology and behaviour of
the Mahogany Glider. Behavioural
analysis of captive individuals coupled
with faecal hormone analysis has
increased the knowledge of the
reproductive physiology of this
endangered glider. Faecal hormone
analysis was completed as part
of Jana Whiteford’s (University of
Queensland) Masters Project.
Rhinoceros Research
This is particularly pertinent to
ex-situ management of the critically
endangered Northern White Rhinoceros
in which the handful of captive females,
held in world zoos, are infertile due to
uterine pathology. This collaborative
research program with the Leibniz
Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Health
(IZW) was formally recognised by
receipt of the 2007 ARAZPA Research
Award. Other significant research
projects underway at Taronga Western
Plains Zoo include investigations
into sperm sex sorting techniques in
rhinoceros (in collaboration with The
University of Sydney) and research
into potential nutritional causes of the
skew towards male calves observed
in captive Black Rhinoceros breeding
programs (in collaboration with Victoria
University, Wellington). An investigation
into the role of dietary magnesium in
the development of a syndrome of
neurological dysfunction observed
in White Rhinoceros is also being
undertaken in collaboration with The
University of Sydney.
Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s ongoing
research collaboration with the IZW
in Berlin has reached a milestone this
year – the production of the world’s first
in vitro fertilisation (IVF) embryo from
Black Rhinoceros, in fact, any species of
rhinoceros. This result is the culmination
of four years of work with the goal of
this project to routinely use the oocytes
for the development of IVF techniques
for rhinoceros providing significant
potential for rhinoceros conservation by
enabling genetically important infertile
females to breed where ovarian function
is normal.
Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s
reproductive biologist, Tamara Keeley,
continues her PhD research through
The University of Sydney to develop
assisted reproductive technology for the
Tasmanian Devil to initiate a genome
resource bank and ways to capitalise
on the bank. This will provide a viable
breeding strategy, an alternative to
the movement of animals and will be
essential in overcoming behavioural
incompatibility. The genome resource
bank will be an insurance strategy for
the rapidly declining wild population.
Australian Wildlife Health
Network (AWHN)
Wildlife disease surveillance is
coordinated nationally through the
AWHN. Funded by the Australian
Department of Agriculture Fisheries
and Forestry the Network is co-hosted
by the Taronga Conservation Society
Australia and NSW Department of
Primary Industries. The network’s aim is
“to promote and facilitate collaborative
links in the investigation and
management of wildlife health in support
of human and animal health, biodiversity
and trade”. The network better prepares
Australia for serious disease outbreaks
in its wild and feral animal populations.
A priority for the network is to critically
assess the risks posed by wild animals,
particularly feral animals, in the advent
of an exotic animal disease entering
Australia. Other activities include
the preparation of wildlife disease
reports for the Office International
des Epizooties and Animal Health
Surveillance Quarterly, surveillance and
dissemination of surveillance data,
education and training in wildlife disease
preparedness and response, facilitation
of wildlife disease investigations,
prioritisation of wildlife research
questions, and development of protocols.
State and Territory co-ordinators report
on six disease categories, which form
the basis for general wildlife disease
surveillance. It assists the National Wild
Bird Surveillance Steering Committee
in management of avian influenza
surveillance data, chairs the Australian
Bat Lyssavirus focus group and
represents Australia to a number of
overseas committees.
In July, the Network assisted the
Australian Department of Agriculture,
Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) and The
University of Sydney workshop on how
universities could better assist Australia
in the management of risk associated
with diseases with wildlife as part of
their ecology.
The Network also assisted the Invasive
Animals Cooperative Research Centre
(IACRC) and DAFF, in organising
another workshop, to review wildlife
disease preparedness in Australia. The
workshop concluded that it is crucial for
Australia to have a dedicated national
body to coordinate wildlife disease
preparedness research/surveillance/
training and information management
and such a body should be well
supported by government (health,
agriculture and environment portfolios).
The Government of Western Australia
Department of Environment and
Conservation asked the Network to
review the disease component of the
Woylie Conservation Research Project
following recent Woylie (Bettongia
penicillata ogilbyi) population declines
in south Western Australia. The group
led by the AWHN comprised members
Our conservation,
The core activities of the ARWH
include diagnostic work, disease
investigation, disease surveillance,
research and education. The Registry
contains information relating to healthy
and diseased native fauna and zoo
animals. It is also a diagnostic centre,
investigating outbreaks of sudden
death or disease on behalf of wildlife
managers, conservation departments,
wildlife rehabilitation groups, the
RSPCA and zoos.
from the Wildlife Diseases Association
Australasian Section and independent
wildlife veterinary epidemiologist and
wildlife veterinarians. Recommendations
of the report are currently being
incorporated into the next strategic plan
for the program.
The Network also assisted the CSIRO
Australian Animal Health Laboratory
(AAHL) and the Wildlife Exotic Disease
Preparedness Program (WEDPP) in
development, funding and delivery of a
training course in exotic animal disease
preparedness for free-ranging wildlife/
feral animal personnel at AAHL in
Geelong. The course focused on the
role of wildlife and feral animals in exotic
and emergency diseases.
A submission regarding the significance
of wildlife as part of the Beale
Review into Australia’s quarantine
and biosecurity was also made by the
Network this year. Input was sought
from Network management, wildlife
coordinators and subscribers. As a
result of this submission, the AWHN has
been asked to appear before the review
to discuss Australia’s quarantine and
biosecurity requirements in the area of
wildlife biosecurity.
Australian Registry of
Wildlife Health (ARWH)
Further investment by the Taronga
Conservation Society Australia has
allowed considerable expansion of the
Australian Registry of Wildlife Health
(ARWH). A significant upgrade to this
program has occurred through the
employment of a full-time Registrar,
part-time Information and Resources
Coordinator, the co-location of the
Registry with the AWHN in newly
renovated offices, the creation of a
dedicated wildlife health resources room
and contribution towards a multi-headed
teaching microscope.
36
This year the Registry mounted an
education and lobbying campaign
regarding wildlife health and biosecurity
using several high-impact examples of
the socio-economic impacts of diseases
that have wildlife as part of their
ecology. The aim is to ensure emerging
government policies and programs, at
a state and commonwealth level, adopt
an ecological approach to biosecurity
protection and disease surveillance. This
can be achieved through adopting a
“One World – One Health” approach to
share information and resources across
the human, livestock, plant, wildlife and
environmental health sectors to better
protect collective health.
Significant projects this financial year
have included:
•• Integration of wildlife health within
the Australian Biosecurity Intelligence
Network (ABIN – funded through
the National Collaborative Research
Infrastructure Strategy). ABIN will
be an information technology based
platform for the sharing of health
information and tools for disease
surveillance, research and education.
•• Amphibian Decline Disease
Investigations – a collaborative
program involving Australian Animal
Health Laboratories, James Cook
University and the Cairns Frog
Hospital to document and diagnose
the causes of amphibian disease
and decline in Australia’s wet tropics.
This project has lead to the creation
of an integrated wildlife disease
investigation and health information
management system that flows from
the wildlife carer or ranger through to
the identification and characterisation
of novel pathogens. Several spinoff research projects related to
the characterisation of amphibian
pathogens are now underway.
The Australasian
Conservation Genetics
Centre (ACGC)
The ACGC is headed by Dr Karen
Firestone and based at the University
of New South Wales (UNSW) under
a Memorandum of Agreement. The
following projects continued:
Conservation genetics of Australian
Quolls (student Maria Cardoso) –
an investigation into whether the
genetic diversity is being maintained
in reintroduced and translocated
populations of Western and Northern
Quolls and also patterns of population
structure in Spotted-tailed Quolls and
Eastern Quolls.
Evolutionary patterns of trans-Torresian
mammals (student Steve Hamilton)
– a project is examining intraspecific
divergence of mammal populations
occurring in Cape York Australia, and
TransFly Papua New Guinea. During
the year nearly all fresh tissue DNA
extractions have been completed and
additional Dasyurus samples obtained
from the South Australian Museum.
The Biodiversity Extinction Crisis
Conference – Dr Firestone assisted in
the organisation of this conference held
at the UNSW in July. Several Taronga
Conservation Society Australia staff
participated in the presentations and
discussion on primary conservation
issues and potential mitigation actions,
concentrating on Australia’s unique
ecosystems and the need and strategies
underway to protect these areas.
The ACGC administered the Taronga
Conservation Society Australia Prize
for Conservation offered to students
performing with excellence in
conservation biology. This year the prize
was awarded to Kate Brandis, PhD
candidate at the recent Postgraduate
Research Forum held at UNSW in
October for her work on “Disappearing
Waterbirds: Colonial Waterbird Breeding
in Australia,” and Christopher Hellyer,
PhD candidate for his work on “Habitat
and feeding preferences of seahorses in
urban structures.”
Education Programs
Visitor Education
and Interpretation
The Visitor Education and Interpretation
team manages the concepts and
content for visitor learning at the Zoos
which includes keeper presentations
and shows, animal labels, graphics
and interactive displays and immersive
exhibits. These give visitors selfdirected learning opportunities, a keener
awareness and appreciation of the
environment and, importantly, the skills
and opportunity to become directly
involved in conservation.
Major activities undertaken at Taronga
Zoo were:
TOP LEFT: ‘Mr Munro’, Taronga’s male
Fiordland Crested Penguin, delights some
visitors as he partakes in a stroll through the
Zoo grounds.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY Paul Miller –
Australian Associated Press
ABOVE LEFT TO RIGHT: 1. Cath Renwick,
Visitor Education and Interpretation Officer
(On the left): “Working at the zoo is a delight our visitors, my colleagues, our animals, the view
… and then there is the work for conservation.
A new challenge everyday, a new piece of
knowledge gleaned, a different approach to an
old problem – these are the things that keep me
motivated every working day.
•• project managing the development
and installation of interpretive media
for ‘Great Southern Oceans’,
•• development of the new seal show
at ‘Great Southern Oceans’, including
coordinating keeper training with NIDA,
•• planning and development of
interpretive content in CWI projects
including ‘Roar and Snore’, Heart of
the Zoo and the Top Entry Plaza,
•• assisting CWI with the review and
upgrade of AV systems across the site,
•• developing new interpretive signage,
including labels, for ‘Backyard to Bush’,
•• staff training in interpretation and
customer service,
•• upgrading and refreshing interpretive
media at the Chimpanzee and de
Brazza Monkey exhibits,
•• staff evaluation and feedback sessions
for keeper presentations and shows,
•• planning and development of
interpretive content in CWI exhibit
refurbishment projects including
Cassowary, Tasmanian Devil, Red
Panda, Koala Encounters 3,
Brooke Hutchinson, Visitor Education
and Interpretation Officer (On the right):
“I love that I have the amazing opportunity
to tell the stories of the zoos’ committed,
passionate and knowledgeable people, and
those of the animals in their care. It is definitely
a challenging, yet unique and incredibly
rewarding, place to work.”
2. On right hand side: Rochelle Bishop,
Education Officer: “I honestly believe that
I have the best job in the world! In my job I
inspire people of all ages to make a personal
contribution to conservation. As a teacher
I engage and positively influence students’
attitudes to wildlife and encourage behaviour
changes that protect the environment and
wildlife. Encouraging students to become
•• development of educational content
for the Zoo Guide and Map,
•• attendance at the 2008 ARAZPA
Conference, including presenting a
paper ‘21 challenges: Visitor Education
and Interpretation in the 21st Century’
wildlife ambassadors will be the key to species
survival in the future.”
On left hand side: David Smith, Education
Officer: “As a teacher, there is no better place
to educate young people than at Taronga Zoo.
It is fantastic to watch their faces light up when
you introduce an animal, knowing that you are
helping to shape behaviours that will lead them
to become better environmental stewards.”
photograph courtesy Bobby Jo Vial
3. Taronga’s Victoria Crowned Pigeon displays
its elegant lace-like crest and stunning red
eyes. Hunted for its plumage these birds are
listed as ‘vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red list for
threatened species.
Our conservation,
LEFT: Melissa Wyatt, Taronga Training
Institute Manager: “Taronga is full of exciting
and passionate people with a zest for life and
a dedication to our natural world. It makes
me feel very special to be a part of such an
amazing group, and an integral part of helping
to pass on to others the wealth of knowledge
and spirit that exists at Taronga.”
RIGHT: More than 15,000 people enjoyed
a visit from one of Taronga’s Zoomobiles
providing environmental education to a wide
section of the community including regional
schools and hospitals .
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY Danny Kildare
and lobbying for better representation
for visitor learning and assessment of
impact across the region,
•• developing a Visitor Education
Strategy for the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia, and
•• continuing to implement the strategies
outlined in the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia Education Strategy.
Major activities at Taronga Western
Plains Zoo were:
•• conducting interpretation and
customer service training with Taronga
Western Plains Zoo Zoofari Lodge
staff and Zoo Friends volunteers,
•• involvement in the planning and
development of the Obley Road Entry,
•• auditing and managing the
replacement of interpretive signage
and labels, and
•• managing the maintenance of
interpretive installations and the
installation of audio equipment for
keeper presentations at various
animal exhibits.
Public education programs offered by
the Zoos’ Education Centres included:
Zoo Adventures
The Zoos’ vacation program was very
successful this year. The program is for
five to 12 year old students and involves
a wide variety of activities relating to
wildlife. These include making behavioral
enrichment toys for animals as well as
behind the scenes tours. At Taronga Zoo
1,592 children undertook the program
while Taronga Western Plains Zoo 584
participated. The program is a great
encouragement for children to become
Youth at the Zoo (YATZ) members.
Roar and Snore – Taronga Zoo
Taronga’s Roar and Snore program
hosted over 5,800 guests, 500 more
than last year. A significant milestone
was reached in October when the
20,000th guest was welcomed since
the program’s inception in 2002.
Feedback remains extremely positive
and supportive of the Zoo’s significant
role in education and conservation within
the local and regional communities.
‘Roar and Snore’ – Taronga Western
Plains Zoo
‘Roar and Snore’ has had a stellar
year with 2,279 people participating
38
in the program compared with 1,604
participants the previous year. The
animal collection at the Education
Centre has expanded enabling guests
to get close to native mammals, reptiles
and birds. This has greatly enhanced
the participants’ experience and is
reflected in the evaluations. The skill of
the discovery hosts also underpins the
success of the program.
Boral Youth at The Zoo (YATZ)
The number of students participating
in YATZ at Taronga Zoo has grown
considerably this year. There are now
453 active members up from 254 last
year. YATZ has been re-launched at
Taronga Western Plains Zoo with 21
students participating in the program.
The YATZ students are an invaluable
volunteer help for keeping and
education programs as well as bush
regeneration and animal enrichment
activities. Boral generously sponsors the
program ensuring excellent outcomes
for the participating students.
Zoo Birthday Parties
This year 740 children had a party
at ‘Backyard to Bush’ as did 240
adults. This is decrease on last year’s
total of 1,103. These parties provide
a fun, educational experience with
the animals and feedback is always
extremely positive.
School Education
Formal Education programs are
delivered to education groups, including
schools, pre schools, vacation care,
tertiary students, overseas students and
community groups. These programs
are delivered both in and outside the
Zoo grounds. The ultimate goal of all
formal programs is to connect people
with animals and inspire them to live
more sustainably.
Formal education is a funded
partnership between the Taronga
Conservation Society Australia, the
Department of Education and Training
(DET), the Sydney Metropolitan Catholic
Education System and corporate
sponsors including St George Bank
and Boral.
A new position of Zoo Education
Marketing Officer was introduced this
year to assist in the communication and
marketing of the different offerings of
both Zoos. This has ensured a strategic
approach and the formalisation of the
different marketing activities.
Work Shops
‘Wild Asia’
At Taronga Zoo students attend
workshops in different learning venues
depending on the stage and the topic
they are studying. Stage one to three
have workshops at ‘Backyard to Bush’,
stage three has a workshop at ‘Wild
Asia’ and the stage four and five
students (high school) have a workshop
at the Education Centre. This ensures
a strategic approach to Zoo Education
and allows the educators to build on
meaningful animal and curriculum
experiences as a student progresses
through the school system leading to an
environmentally aware student.
The Village School located in ‘Wild
Asia’ is a very effective venue for stage
three workshops on rainforests and
endangered species and where students
can meet animals up close. They also
complete a trail through ‘Wild Asia’.
The elephants often come over to the
classroom providing very memorable
experiences for the students. This
year 4,116 stage three students had a
workshop in ‘Wild Asia’ compared with
3,215 last year.
‘Backyard to Bush’
This year 19,160 students had a
workshop at ‘Backyard to Bush’, a
decrease on last year’s total of 20,124.
These hands-on workshops focus on
actions students can take at home and
at school to help protect wildlife such as
developing eco friendly gardens.
Taronga Zoo Education Centre
This year 30,506 students had a
workshop at the Education Centre.
Classification is still the most popular
topic with over 25,000 students
participating in this workshop. Senior
student workshops continue to be
popular with Human Story, Zoo
Marketing and Maintaining a Balance
showing growth in participation.
A total of 104,919 students undertook
formal education programs at Taronga
Zoo and Taronga Western Plains Zoo
with all participants having a unique
learning experience and achieving
curriculum related outcomes.
Taronga Zoo
At Taronga Zoo 91,109 students visited
as part of a school excursion. This is an
increase from 90,355 since last year.
This is a pleasing result considering
the disruption caused by the car park
construction and the rising costs
of transport.
Education Officers are heavily involved
in the husbandry and conditioning of the
collection animals at ‘Backyard to Bush’
and the Education Centre with officers
rostered on four mornings a week.
This year the team has focused on
projects relating to the conservation work
undertaken by the Zoo working with
other partners. This has led to excellent
student outcomes and community
education. These programs include the
North Sydney Region Climate Change
Learning and Community Education
Project and the Project Penguin program.
In both programs the Zoo education team
is working closely with students, teachers
and members of specific schools to build
capacity in students and teachers to drive
behavioural change to assist key species.
Our conservation,
Education Centre
Taronga Western Plains Zoo conducted
workshops for 6,255 students. A
successful local school promotion
resulted in additional Dubbo based
schools utilising the service this year.
A number of professional development
courses for teachers were conducted
this year to inform teachers about the
services of the Education Centre and to
develop their teaching skills to enable
them to be more effective environmental
educators in their schools.
Outreach Education
The two outreach programs offered by
the Taronga Zoo Education team – the
St George Zoomobile and the DET
Zoomobile aim to give a zoo experience
to students and people who face
difficulty attending the Zoos.
The DET Zoomobile delivered animal
based, curriculum related workshops to
14,453 students in a variety of schools
all over NSW including disadvantaged,
remote, hospital and special schools
and remand centres. In total the DET
Zoomobile delivered programs to
180 schools.
Of the total –
•• 4,220 students participated in the
Outreach Animals of the Dreaming
program, delivered in partnership
with Col Hardy – a highly respected
Aboriginal Elder from Brewarrina.
senior science program Evolution
of Australian Biota delivered in
partnership with the Royal Botanic
Garden and the Australian Museum.
biodiversity workshops delivered
in partnership with 12 NSW DET
Environmental Education Centres.
The St George Zoomobile delivered
animal based workshops to 17,711
participants. This is up from last year’s
total of 16,959 and is attributed to the
increased participation in weekend and
school holiday programs. This program
conducted workshops at pre schools,
day care centres, nursing homes and
other cultural institutions and corporate
groups. It also participated in council
days, fetes and other community outdoor
events. The outdoor events have been
enhanced with a new marquee and
display tanks that enable more effective
education messages to be delivered.
40
Other Education Programs include:
Taronga Training Institute
Following accreditation by the
Vocational Education and Training
Accreditation Board (VETAB), the
registered training organisation
commenced operations in February.
The Taronga Training Institute
is accredited to offer vocational
education in Certificate II in Animal
Studies (RUV20104) and Certificate
III in Captive Animals (RUV30204)
providing learning experiences for
students by providing vital knowledge
and experience through classroom
attendance, volunteering opportunities
alongside Taronga Conservation Society
Australia staff as Intern Keepers at
Taronga Zoo and providing assessments
to determine their competency in zoo
keeping. The Institute continues to
receive an overwhelming response to
its courses with the February and July
student intakes achieving maximum
enrolment numbers.
O
Meet a Keeper
607 students at Taronga and 153
students at Taronga Western Plains Zoo
participated in the Meet a Keeper day.
This is a one day vocational education
program designed to give students an
insight into the animal care industry.
Zoosnooz
This environmental education overnight
program catered for 2,962 students at
Taronga and 1,467 students at Taronga
Western Plains Zoo. This was an
increase for both Zoos.
Wildlife Workshops
840 students from overseas participated
in the animal based language program
at Taronga Zoo.
Professional Development
560 teachers and principals received
zoo and environmental education
in-service training focusing on how the
Zoos can complement and enhance
student learning.
Becoming a registered training
organisation is a further demonstration
Australia’s continuing commitment to
education and conservation and to the
zoological industry with the Certificate III
in Captive Animals being the nationally
recognised qualification for Zoo Keepers.
The establishment of the Taronga
Training Institute is an exciting and
rewarding chapter for the Taronga
Conservation Society Australia which
enhances the Society’s ability to share
its expert knowledge and facilities and
inspire others to care for wildlife and the
future of the natural world.
Insitu Education
This year, 550 students participated in
Project Penguin, an insitu conservation
education program involving six
schools in the Manly area. The project
is designed to inspire local students to
educate the community on the plight of
the local Little Penguin colony. An expo
was held in June at ‘Great Southern
Oceans’ where students showcased
their work.
Work Experience
Placements for 256 students in year 11
and 12 were provided at Taronga Zoo
and 41 at Taronga Western Plains Zoo.
ABOVE: This year over 550 school children
from Sydney’s Northern Beaches participated
in ‘Project Penguin’ to inspire understanding
and protection of the local Little Penguin
colony.”
OurOurbusiness
business
enterprise
enterprise
Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s African Elephants
‘Yum Yum’ and ‘Cuddles’ are taken on regular
walks as part of their exercise routine.
photograph courtesy Shallon
McReaddie
Direct government support per visitor
Taronga Zoo
Operating expenses per visitor
Taronga Zoo
Capital expenditure per visitor
Taronga Zoo
07
08
$23.86
$10.73
$24.59
$11.73
$36.23
$53.35
$39.69
$60.92
$23.69
$3.45
$13.42
$3.65
Principal areas
of activity
Objectives
•• Zoo Admissions
•• To improve business effectiveness via
simplification, speed and
reduced costs.
•• Community Citizenship
•• Commercial Services
•• Corporate Relations
Organisational Capacity
•• To improve communication processes.
•• Catering Services
•• To develop systems to improve
response capacity and effectively
measure performance.
•• The Taronga Foundation
Commerce
•• Marketing
•• To increase business volumes, market
share and revenue through innovative
and competitive commercial activities.
•• Retail Services
•• Information Technology
•• Animal Sponsorship
•• Tourism
•• Communications and Media Relations
•• Graphic Design
•• Benchmarking
•• Records Management and
Archives Office
•• Risk Management
Goals
To develop and implement superior
systems that enable the Zoos to adapt to
new market conditions and identify new
opportunities created by change.
Commerce
To meet financial requirements by
generating support and goodwill among
our customers, supporters
and stakeholders.
Community
To ensure our Zoos play an active role
in fostering community involvement by
developing and participating in activities
that create a sense of belonging and
working towards common goals.
Community
•• To further develop our status as an
important community asset
and resource,
•• To achieve a greater awareness of
our programs and activities in ethnic
communities,
•• To achieve an increased sense of
community pride and ownership
of the Zoos,
•• To take a leadership role in the
community in conservation and
environmental endeavours.
The Taronga
Foundation
Now in its eighth year, The Taronga
Foundation inspires the community
to actively support the Taronga
Conservation Society Australia’s wildlife
and conservation efforts. Through its
fundraising activities the Foundation
raises awareness of the philanthropic
aspects of Taronga and Taronga
Western Plains Zoos.
The Foundation’s vision is to be
recognised as a world leader in the
development of philanthropic support
for the conservation and presentation of
Australian and exotic wildlife.
Taronga Foundation
Governors and Patrons
Maurice L Newman AC, (Chairman)
Nigel Adams
John Armati AM
Frank Brennan
Alyce Faye Cleese
John Cleese
Collette Dinnigan
Peter FitzSimons
Megan Gale
Bradley Trevor Greive
Reg Grundy AC OBE
Louis Hawke
Justin Hemmes
Rebecca Hewitt
Lisa Ho
Antonia Kidman
Skye Leckie
Justin Miller
Richard Morecroft
Don Olney
Gretel Packer
Anna Russell
Deborah Thomas
Max Walters AM MBE
Peter Young AM
Taronga Foundation
Net Income
$m
0
1
2
3
4.7
06/07
3.8
05/06
2.7
04/05
03/04
3.2
2.6
02/03
42
5
5.2
07/08
01/02
4
1.6
6
The Taronga
Foundation
Chairman’s Report
The Taronga Foundation celebrated a
milestone year raising $5.2 million which
well and truly exceeded the financial
year target of $4.8 million. This success
resulted in a record 13.6 % net revenue
increase from the previous year bringing
the cumulative total raised by the
Foundation to $37 million towards its
overall target of $57.6 million.
The major focuses of the Foundation’s
fundraising efforts were the ‘Great
Southern Oceans’ Appeal and the
Asian Elephant Conservation Breeding
Program, including the new breeding
facility for the young bull elephant.
In addition, The Taronga Foundation
pledged to raise additional funds to
support the International Year of the
Frog, the Australian Marine Mammal
Research Centre and Tasmanian
Devils, and to provide a minimum of
$80 000 annually towards in situ (field
conservation) projects. This is the first
year the Foundation has committed to
raising funds in addition to the Master
Plan target and demonstrates an
increased commitment to global wildlife
conservation initiatives.
The Taronga Foundation welcomed
new Patrons Alyce Faye Cleese, John
Cleese, Reg Grundy and Louis Hawke
who each bring unique skills to help
steer the Foundation’s direction over the
coming years. I would like to particularly
thank Founding Governors Deb
Thomas for so ably chairing our Zoofari
fundraising committee, Justin Miller for
achieving such wonderful results from
our fundraising auctions, and Nigel
Adams, Lisa Ho, Gretel Packer and
Richard Morecroft for their contribution
to our fundraising events.
Event highlights include Splash: ‘Great
Southern Oceans’ Zoofari, held in an
enormous marquee on Taronga’s concert
lawns, and the Ivy Dinner. A last-minute
change of venue (due to construction
delays with the new Ivy Room) saw the
event moved to Establishment where it
was a sell out success. We are grateful
for the enormous support we received
from Justin Hemmes and his team at
Merivale for ensuring the Ivy Dinner ran
smoothly and efficiently.
Major Gifts and Bequests tracked well,
exceeding the combined target by
$120,000. Major gifts increased the
numbers of supporters donating
$10,000 or more, up from last year’s
number of 46. A free-of-charge
reception at Flying Fish Restaurant
and Bar in March for existing and
potential OCEANS 100 members
resulted in ten new OCEANS 100
members and an additional $100,000.
The management and staff at Flying
Fish were extremely supportive and
helped ensure a fantastic event.
Bequest income was greatly boosted
by an interim payment of more than
$400,000 from one legacy. The number
of known bequests doubled in the past
year and the Friends of the Future
bequest club continues to engage those
who have generously left a bequest to
the Taronga Foundation in their will.
The support of the community
through its generous response to The
Foundation’s public appeals continues
to be very heartening. Four appeals
this year highlighting Little Penguins
and Australian Sea Lions, the Elephant
Breeding Facility and the plight of the
Tasmanian Devils generated a total of
$298,494.
Corporate Partnerships continues
to build upon its success for
the Foundation especially with
EnergyAustalia as Principal Partner
of ‘Great Southern Oceans’ and
Nationwide News as print media
partner across both Zoos.
The on-going support of our other
Principal Partners, ANZ, Coca-Cola
Amatil, QBE and Streets must also be
specially acknowledged.
The Taronga Foundation would not be
able to achieve these results without the
continued support of our patrons and
governors, sponsors, donors, Taronga
Conservation Society Australia’s Director
Guy Cooper, members of the board
Australia, and the wonderful staff at both
Zoos. Thank you all for your commitment,
dedication and encouragement of our
fundraising endeavors.
The target for the next twelve months is a
staggering $6.2 million, the biggest in our
12-year Master Plan. In addition, we plan
to increase Foundation support of in situ
conservation projects. With your support,
I know we can achieve our ambitious
goals and help to create a better future
for our wildlife and future generations.
Maurice L. Newman AC
Chairman
Elephant Breeding Facility and home
for “Gung”. The dinner was sold out well
in advance of the RSVP date and the
pre-dinner drinks and animal enounters
were moved upstairs to Hemmesphere
to ensure the maximum number of
tables could be squeezed into the
Establishment Ballroom. We sincerely
thank Justin Hemmes for his continued
support of this event.
Other events include:
Taronga Foundation supporter, Tracey Spicer,
gets close to a feathered friend at a thank you
event hosted at Flying Fish restaurant.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY
Antonious Kanis
The Taronga
Foundation Events
The Taronga Foundation again exceeded
its events’ target, raising a total of
$900,000. As well as achieving record
revenue at the two major fundraising
dinners, the Foundation ran a number
of other events, including a dinner for
the Snow Leopard Conservancy. It also
provided financial and administrative
support for two keeper-initiated
conservation lectures supporting the
International Rhinoceros Foundation and
the Borneo Orang-utan Society.
The Foundation’s first major fundraising
event for the year was Splash! Great
Southern Oceans Zoofari, held for the
first time in an enormous clear marquee
on Taronga’s concert lawns, with more
than 330 guests enjoying a special
preview of ‘Great Southern Oceans’
before dinner. MC Chris Bath, auctioneer
Justin Miller and dynamo entertainer
Leo Sayer ensured guests had a
wonderful evening and raised more
than $490,100 for the Foundation’s
‘Great Southern Oceans’ Appeal. The
Foundation is extremely grateful to
Zoofari Committee Chair, Deborah
Thomas and committee members Min
Darling, Jeremy Garling, Angus Hawley,
Sarah Hoyland, Julie McIntosh, Justin
Miller, Rebecca Nyman, Monique Sartor
and Josephine Sukkar, as well as Reed
Construction who generously provided
the marquee scaffolding.
Despite construction delays to the Ivy
Room and a last minute venue change
to Establishment, the 2008 Ivy Dinner,
hosted by Rove McManus, raised over
$200,000 for Taronga’s
44
NYE@Taronga Zoo, offering a unique
and memorable experience for families
to celebrate New Year’s Eve, again sold
out before Christmas. Live entertainment
from George Washing Machine,
Catherine Hunter, Frank Bennett and
Sydney’s All Stars, and the wonderful
support from our Zoo Friends Volunteers
and staff ensured an enjoyable,
smoothly run event. A total of $250,000
was raised from the night.
Splashout@Cabana – September
Despite some of the wettest weather
on record, guests donned a ‘splash
of blue’ and turned out in force to
Splashout@Cabana at the Cabana Bar
and Lounge in St Leonards, raising close
to $40,000 for Taronga Zoo’s ‘Great
Southern Oceans’ Appeal. Designed
to attract a younger crowd, guests
mingled with the Zoo’s scaly, slithery
and furry animals and their keepers
while grooving to the sounds of awardwinning artist Jade MacRae and her
band. Olympic Gold Medal swimmer
Mark Tonelli acted as MC, encouraging
everyone to dig deep for money-can’tbuy auction items such as the chance to
swim with Taronga’s seals when the new
exhibit opens.
Vanishing Tracks, Snow Leopard
Fundraising Dinner – October
The Taronga Foundation and the
Australian Himalayan Foundation hosted
a joint fundraising dinner at Taronga
Zoo to support the Snow Leopard
Conservancy, a San Francisco-based
organisation focusing its efforts on
community-based conservation of Snow
Leopards. Dr Rodney Jackson, Director
of the Snow Leopard Conservancy,
was the guest of honour, together with
television presenter and Founding
Governor of The Taronga Foundation,
Antonia Kidman. Dr Jackson co-hosted
the dinner with Zoo Director, Guy Cooper.
A stellar list of supporters attended,
including writer Bryce Courtenay and
mountaineer Lincoln Hall. The sell-out
event raised over $40,000 to
help protect the remaining wild
populations of this magnificent,
highly endangered species.
Public Appeals and
Zoo Parent
The program of four direct mail appeals
continued this year generating a total of
$664,221 in donations.
The September and Christmas
campaigns featured more of the animals
from ‘Great Southern Oceans’, Little
Penguins and Australian Sea Lions
respectively, and delivered $180,000 in
donations. This year the March appeal
was not run to enable a larger mailing for
the end of financial year tax campaign.
With the opening of ‘Great Southern
Oceans’ the next fundraising focus, which
also trialed a new donation mechanism,
focused on the Elephant Breeding
Facility at Taronga. This achieved a record
$146,232 in donations.
At the same time an acquisition-only
direct mail campaign was run to raise
funds for the vitally important Tasmanian
Devil breeding program at both Zoos.
With a change in the format, together
with a more detailed and more
sophisticated reporting tailored to
the Zoos’ particular requirements, the
response rate from existing donors is
pleasingly high, with some segments in
excess of 30%.
The Zoo Parent animal sponsorship
program this year delivered pleasing
results following the renewal strategies
implemented in the last financial year to
address the attrition rate. The program
is now running at a retention rate of
just under 48%, a great improvement
from the low of 29% when the program
changed. The reporting capabilities
of the database have also assisted in
our analysis of Zoo Parent, and these
results once again underline the vital
importance of developing an effective
online presence. Currently 60% of all
new Zoo Parents sign up online and,
even without an online renewal facility
on the website, around 15%, and up to
35% in peak months, renew this way.
Information evenings for donors
of large amounts to appeals and
selected high-level Zoo Parents were
trialed and proved to be an extremely
successful and effective way to engage
on a personal level with donors, with
significant donations being received
from attendees and strong relationships
being established.
The database continues to provide
integral support for fundraising activities.
Since July 2006, 2,500 new, validated
records have been added through mailing
acquisition, verification mailings to lapsed
Zoo Parents and event attendance.
Major Gifts and Bequests
Major Gifts received a total of $434,650,
which combined with bequest income,
resulted in a total of $1.19 million. The
fundraising team increased its focus
on an integrated philanthropic strategy
across public appeals and Zoo Parents,
identifying the major gift potential of
regular donors. This targeted approach
has resulted in a number of substantial
donations from regular donors who have
not previously made a major gift.
The pro-active bequest acquisition
program has resulted in achieving an
income of $757,640, well ahead of the
budget target of $380,000. More than
half of this income was generated from a
single bequest which came to us through
an active acquisition strategy.
The Foundation continues to offer a
simple, free will service to all potential
benefactors. We are grateful to Harris
& Co solicitors who have generously
provided the bequest team with
in-kind support.
The Friends of the Future club held
its second event, a Christmas lunch in
the Zoo’s Harbour View Garden Court.
Guests enjoyed animal encounters and
an entertaining and informative frog
talk by keeper Michael McFadden. Club
members have continued to increase
with 55 confirmed benefactors, an
increase of 23 since July last year.
Donor stewardship events, including
a cocktail party at Flying Fish, proved
successful in both thanking existing
donors and engaging new supporters.
Initiatives, such as a partnership with Big
G Conducts, saw conductor George Ellis
presenting a series of children’s concerts
in the ANZ Conservation Theatre during
the January school holidays.
The concerts proved popular and
attained excellent media coverage
for the event and the work of The
Taronga Foundation.
The number of donors who gave
$10,000 or more increased by 24%.
These included new members of the
successful OCEANS 100 initiative,
which has almost reached its ambitious
target of $1 million.
Corporate Partnerships
Corporate Partnerships has continued
its steady growth over the past four
years with over 90 businesses now
supporting the conservation efforts
Australia. The successful approach
of The Taronga Foundation assists
the corporate partners to achieve
their business and corporate social
responsibilities objectives.
Cash sponsorships of $2.64 million
were secured this year, an increase of
11 % on the previous year. In addition, a
total of $1.5 million of contra and in-kind
support from companies contributed to
the operations of the Foundation and
LEFT: The Taronga Foundation successfully
launched ‘Oceans 100’ which attracted a
number of donors who each gave $10,000
or more towards The Foundation’s work for
marine animals.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY
Antonious Kanis
RIGHT: Rove McManus, the MC of The
Taronga Foundation’s Ivy Dinner had an
encounter with ‘Brian’ a much-loved Taronga
Zoo family member.
PHOToGRAPH COURTESY
Over the past year a number of
sponsors, including ANZ, Bing Lee
and Sydney Water, have engaged in
innovative leveraging activities to further
support the conservation efforts of The
Taronga Foundation.
In response to the sponsor survey
undertaken this year, Corporate
Partnerships has introduced a new gold
pass reporting system as part of the
continuing drive to improve the servicing
and retention of Zoo sponsors.
Highlights include:
•• EnergyAustralia’s Principal Partnership
commitment as naming right sponsor
of the ‘Great Southern Oceans’,
•• ANZ continuing staff support of
the Elephant Breeding Program via
significant staff engagement,
•• Nationwide News support through
The Daily Telegraph and The Sunday
Telegraph as print media partner of
both Zoos,
•• Hungry Jack’s Crown level
sponsorship in support of the Lowland
Gorilla conservation program,
•• Centaman, Coca-Cola Amatil, Fosters,
Streets, Powerhouse Logistics & Fuji
support of the ARAZPA conference,
•• Renewal of ASX and ING
sponsorships, and
•• Significant contra support from
The Classic Safari Co and Thermal
Imaging Systems.
Marketing
Attractions in Sydney on the whole had
a challenging year with a 1.0% decline
in the international tourism market and a
softer domestic market with an increase
in outbound travel of over 7% year
on year. For the first time in 27 years,
outbound tourism overtook inbound
tourism spurred on by the strength
of the Australian dollar and a variety
of cheap overseas airfares. Heavy
competition resulted with significant
promotional offers and activities
throughout the year. The new attraction
Sydney Wildlife World, Darling Harbour,
managed by the same governing body
of the Sydney Attractions Group, which
was recently taken over by Village
Roadshow was particularly aggressive
in advertising and promotional
spend across both the domestic and
international markets together with deep
discounts and packages across the
combined properties.
Within this competitive environment, the
highlights of the year were that Taronga
Zoo maintained and took firm hold of
number one market share amongst all
attractions, together with being awarded
a Distinction for Major Tourist Attraction
in the 2007 NSW Tourism Awards.
The regional market has continued
to suffer a difficult economy together
with heavy competition from seaboard
locations, compounded also by the
ongoing highly competitive airline
industry delivering cheaper flights
PHOToGRAPH COURTESY
46
across Australia, increasing petrol prices
and a continued decline in tourism to
central NSW.
Within this environment, the Marketing
team delivered a compelling program
of activities designed to attract a
wider target market of visitors to both
Zoos including:
•• Barbie Island Princess –
Taronga Zoo hosted the “Barbie
Island Princess” DVD launch tie-in at
the concert lawns across five days
during the October school holidays.
The DVD story featured a Red
Panda, elephant, peacock and white
monkey which are also on display at
Taronga. After each screening children
followed a discovery trail around the
Zoo to learn more about the real
animals. The launch was supported by
significant marketing by both Taronga
and promotional partner Mattel.
Results were exceptional providing
incremental sales of over 12% and
totaling in excess of 125,000 visitors
to the Zoo in October. Additionally,
almost 1,000 Zoo Friends visited each
day across the Barbie event, a 69%
increase year on year.
•• Ticketek Strategic Alliance –
a strategic alliance ticketing
partnership was instigated during the
year which saw the commencement
of weekly ticket marketing and
distribution across the Ticketek
network and its 600,000 members.
This partnership is critical as the
Zoo’s own online ticketing capacity
is still in development. Marketing
spans exclusive webpages, electronic
direct mail offers, banner advertising,
newsletter inclusions and dedicated
promotions. Sales have exceeded
20,000 since inception across
both Zoos.
•• Website Relaunch –
a relaunched organisational website
went live in late January, aligned
with the announcement of the
new brand Taronga Conservation
Society Australia. A new website
address www.taronga.org.au, is now
being used on all advertising and
communications. The new website
delivers a platform that will enable
continuous improvement and evolution
to remain relevant and contemporary
for the Zoos’ supporters, consumers
and patrons. Since launch, an increase
of 5% in overall website traffic has
been noted, representing in excess of
120,000 unique visitors.
•• Public Transport Strategy – a
specific marketing campaign has
been triggered by the commencement
of the Taronga car park reconstruction
program. The campaign encourages
visitors to travel by public transport
and receive a 15% Zoo entry
discount. Press and radio are the
key mediums used, directing visitors
to the website where a significant
amount of detail on how to get to the
Zoo is provided. Transport partners
Sydney Ferries, City Rail and State
Transit Authority have also provided
additional support via promotions
and advertising. A partnership with
Wilsons Parking provides discounted
parking at their Circular Quay and
Opera House car parks for Taronga
Zoo visitors. The campaign success
has resulted in an increase in public
transport use of over 25% year on
year, together with minimal reduction
in overall visitation.
•• ‘Great Southern Oceans’ –
a marketing and media campaign
supported the launch of ‘Great
Southern Oceans’ on 1 April.
Coverage included a media launch
attended by the NSW Premier and
the Minister for Climate Change and
the Environment, a four page “wrap”
around the Daily Telegraph, press,
radio and outdoor broadcasts, website,
taxilites and TV presence across both
domestic and international markets.
The theme “Sea life as you’ve never
seen it” was included across the
whole campaign with the call to
action focused on the public transport
offer. Visitation in the launch month
exceeded 104,000 visitors.
FAR LEFT: Skye Leckie and celebrity vet, Chris
Brown, support The Taronga Foundation at the
2008 Ivy Dinner.
photograph courtesy
taronga foundation
LEFT: The Foundation’s major fundraising
event for the year Splash! Great Southern
Oceans Zoofari, was held in an enormous
clear marquee on Taronga’s picturesque
Concert Lawns.
photograph courtesy
taronga foundation
ABOVE: A new marketing campaign, ‘Africa in
your own Backyard’, was launched at Taronga
Western Plains Zoo capturing the unique
wildlife experiences available at the open
range Zoo.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY
REEDMILTIADESKAYE
•• Twilight Concert Series –
2008 marked the 13th Twilight
at Taronga concert series. These
concerts, held during weekends
in February and March, attracted
over 28,000 people, resulting in the
highest average ticket sales per
concert following the record 10 year
anniversary series. In addition,
$23,000 was generated from patrons
taking advantage of the $10 Zoo
admission from 2pm, a 50% increase
on last year’s sales for the series.
•• Taronga Western Plains Zoo
Marketing Campaign –
the marketing campaign “Africa in your
own backyard” capturing the wonder,
magic and extraordinary experiences
available at Taronga Western Plains
Zoo, continued through-out the year.
Advertising spanned metropolitan
press, NRMA Open Road, advertising
on Kidspot website together with
inclusions in promotions across radio
and with partner Ticketek.
LEFT: Arabella Hammon, Tourism Manager:
“Each day when I come to work and I observe
people’s reactions to seeing our amazing
animals it reminds why I love working at Taronga
Zoo. The delight on their faces highlights why
our work here collectively is so important. I want
future generations to have the opportunity to
marvel at wildlife and appreciate its beauty as
we do. “
UPPER RIGHT: NSW Premier, Morris Iemma,
and Environment Minister, Verity Firth, led a
media preview of Taronga’s newest precinct
Great Southern Oceans.
LOWER RIGHT: More than 7.5 million
Australians gained an insight into the diverse
roles of the two Zoos and the dedicated
staff through THE ZOO, an observational
documentary filmed at Taronga and Taronga
Western Plains Zoos.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY
Channel Seven
Local Events
Taronga Western Plains Zoo continued
its support of local events, through
the provision of discounted Zoo entry
vouchers, for sporting competitions,
racing carnivals, shows and eisteddfods.
The half price vouchers, created
in-house by the marketing department,
were distributed to over 10,000
participants in 24 local events. The
vouchers target people who are coming
to Dubbo for a specific purpose who
may have a little discretionary time
for leisure related activities. Feedback
from event organisers and participants
indicates that the vouchers are popular
and the redemption rate is currently
under review.
International Tourism
International Tourism at Taronga
continued to be affected by the
downturn in the entire market and
the share of international visitors in
the total mix has not increased rather
maintained similar levels as in 2006/07
at approximately 25%, a good position
given the strong competition. Revenue
continues to increase with tour package
price rises.
48
Tourism highlights included:
•• Winner: Sports, Events and Tourism
category of Premier’s NSW
Export Awards.
•• Extended growth from North Asia
markets with the appointment of
specialist sales representative to
consultants, Australian Attractions,
formerly a long term sales director
with the Sydney Attractions Group.
•• Australian Attractions attendance at
trade shows in China, Hong Kong,
Taiwan, Japan, South East Asia, India,
United Kingdom, Europe, USA and
New Zealand.
•• Doubled volume and strong
acceptance of “VIP Aussie Gold” and
“Taronga’s Wild Australia” exclusive,
behind the scenes tour products.
•• Doubled volume in booked group
products with strong sales particularly
from the US market.
•• Ongoing partnership building with
the Australian Tourism Commission,
Tourism NSW and Tourism Sydney to
consolidate Taronga’s tourism profile.
•• Increased leverage with transport
partner Captain Cook Matilda
including joint sales and marketing
representation across all markets.
•• Design, development and
implementation of a new tourism
brochure and collateral.
•• Tourism Industry showcase at Taronga
of ‘Great Southern Oceans’ in
February to over 250 guests, officially
launched by the Minister for Tourism,
the Honourable Matt Brown MP.
Groups Sales
Groups sales is an important component
of the visitor mix and there continued
to be several successful union picnics,
corporate event days and solid pre-paid
ticket sales – the largest being CFMEU
in December with close to 2,000
members attending including over
300 at Taronga Western Plains Zoo.
Many organisations are repeat users
of Taronga with some confirming
their events for up to three years. The
extended visitor facilities and new
exhibits continue to grow volume
and revenue.
Communications and
Media Relations
The Media Relations Department
focuses on obtaining positive media
coverage of the Zoos’ animals,
conservation and research efforts and
events to maintain public interest in
Taronga and Taronga Western Plains
Zoos. The department also coordinates
all VIP visits as well as provides issues
management support for the executive
at both Zoos.
The airing of the Channel Seven
observational documentary The Zoo in
February was a highlight with the six
week run of the TV series attracting
more than seven and a half million
viewers providing an insight into the
diverse roles of the two Zoos and
enabled them to learn more about the
Zoos’ wildlife research, rehabilitation
and conservation endeavours and the
unwavering dedication of the keeping
staff, veterinarians and volunteers. The
series consistently rated above one
million viewers per episode, out-rating
its aggressively advertised competitors.
Following this success, the Media
Relations team negotiated a contract for
a second series and is currently in the
process of researching and filming.
Importantly, the negative coverage
received by the Zoos represents just
3.89% of the $53,137,414 worth of
media coverage this financial year.
Numerous other animal events were
covered extensively by the media at both
Zoos, including:
•• The transfer of “Jimiyu” the Giraffe
from Taronga Western Plains Zoo to
Taronga Zoo,
•• The 10th Anniversary of Taronga’s
QBE Free Flight Bird Show and debut
of “Lesley” the Andean Condor,
•• The rescue of two stranded
Leopard Seals,
•• Debut of a young Sumatran Tiger at
Taronga Western Plains Zoo acquired
from a zoo in Germany to add to
the genetic diversity to the regional
breeding program,
•• The births of a male Western Lowland
Gorilla and two Chimpanzees at
Taronga Zoo,
•• The launch at Taronga Zoo of a new
local community education program
‘Project Penguin’,
•• The birth of a White Rhinoceros,
Bison and Giraffe at Taronga Western
Plains Zoo,
The media preview of ‘Great Southern
Oceans’ was another highlight providing
widespread national and international
coverage in both print and broadcast
media. The exciting combination of the
underwater viewing areas, the research
being undertaken by the Australian
Marine Mammals Research Centre
and that ‘Great Southern Oceans’ is
home to the only Leopard Seals and
Fiordland Penguins to be cared for
by a Zoo anywhere in the world was
communicated via live broadcasts by
most metropolitan news services, live
weather segments on the Channel Nine
Today Show and Channel Nine News.
Negative coverage was extremely
limited, however, animal activists
continued to lobby for Taronga’s Asian
Elephants to be re-located to Taronga
Western Plains Zoo. The announcement
of the first natural elephant pregnancy
was well received by most media,
however, the NSW Greens used this
to once again call into question the
Zoo’s welfare standards and legitimacy
of the conservation breeding program
suggesting the animal was too young
and renewing calls for the elephants
to be re-located. The negative media
coverage was mainly restricted to a
24 hour period and was followed by
extremely positive coverage including
Today Show weather segments with the
‘in-studio’ host openly praising the Zoo’s
elephant management and dismissing
claims by the animal activists.
•• The arrival of two aged circus
elephants “Arna” and “Gigi” at Taronga
Western Plains Zoo, and
Media Coverage –
2007/2008
•• The scientific breakthrough by
Taronga Western Plains Zoo staff and
reproductive experts from the Institute
for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin
with the first successful artificial
fertilisation of a rhinoceros oocyte.
Overall Commercial Value
Comparisons
Events and activities organised and/or
promoted by the Zoo’s Media Relations
Departments included:
•• The media preview of ‘Great Southern
Oceans’ attended by the Premier of
NSW, the Honorable Morris Iemma, MP,
•• Publicity for the ARAZPA conference
hosted at Taronga Zoo and launch of
Year of the Frog activities,
•• Support of the Premier’s Reading
Challenge hosted at the QBE Free
Flight Bird Show,
•• The Annual Twilight at
Taronga Concerts,
(Estimate figures includes both positive
and negative stories)
Television Media
Taronga Zoo
The Zoo Channel Seven documentary
featuring both Zoos
Total
Jul 06–Jun 07
Jul 07–Jun 08
$11,606,216
1,051 items
$ 8,559,450
368 items
$1,223,399
36 items
$1,272,800
88 items
N/A
$29,970,000
6 episodes
$12,829,615
1,087 items
$39,802,250
462
Total Increase 06/07–07/08
Print Media
$26,972,635
(increase in value)
-625 items
(decrease in items)
Jul 06–Jun 07
Jul 07–Jun 08
•• Media support for The Taronga
Foundation events including ‘Splash
Out’ at Cabana and the Elephant
Zoofari event,
Taronga Zoo
$8,470,392
910 articles
$ 9,612,993
796 articles
$480,582
203 articles
$ 2,739,581
474 items
•• The annual Media Thank You Dinner
sponsored by Australia Post, and
Total
$8,950,974
1,113 articles
$12,352,574
1,270 items
•• The Zoo Friends Thank you party.
The Zoos use a joint system to assess
the number of print, broadcast and
telecast items and their estimated value
based on cost of similar advertising
space. An effective measure of the
Zoos’ huge on-line coverage is not
available yet. Careful targeting of high
volume media, particularly in broadcast
TV has seen a substantial increase in
the value of coverage.
Taronga’s Media Relations Department’s
support of Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s
media activities and the Channel Seven
TV series helped increase coverage and
profile of Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s
many animal stories, events and activities.
Radio Media
Jul 06–Jun 07
Jul 07–Jun 08
Taronga Zoo
$768,208
467 items
$606,125
481 items
$162,053
119 items
$376,465
283 items
Total
$930,261
586 items
$982,590
764 items
06/07 Total Value
06/07 Total items/articles
07/08 Total Value
07/08 Total items/articles
Total Increase/decrease 06/07–07/08
50
$ 3,401,600
157 items
$52,329
178 items
$22,710,850
2,786 articles/items
$ 53,137,414
2,496 articles/ items
+ $30,426,564
-290 articles/items
Society Australia
In January, Taronga and Western
Plains Zoos became part of the new
effectively replacing the existing
governing name, the Zoological Parks
Board of NSW (ZPB).
The re-branding resulted from public
research conducted in 2005 which
concluded that the Australian public
was unclear of the now multi-faceted
roles of the two Zoos and the range of
conservation, research and breeding
programs in which they are involved.
Furthermore, it was recognised that
the name ‘Zoological Parks Board’ did
not effectively convey the work of the
Zoos but rather enforced an outdated,
conservative and possibly misleading
image of their roles and functions.
Additionally, the research revealed that
the ‘Taronga’ name was well known
nationally and internationally and
consequently ‘Taronga’ was introduced
to Western Plains Zoo, now known
as Taronga Western Plains Zoo. This
reinforces that both Zoos are part of the
one organisation dedicated to wildlife
conservation and governed by the one
Board under the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia.
The parent name, the Zoological Parks
Board of NSW, and its ABN are retained
as the registered trading name, and the
Act under which the conservation work
is guided.
The Zoos’ logos, together with The
Taronga Foundation’s logo, were also
updated with the help of Hulsbosch
Communications.
Learning at the Zoos
Since July Visitor Exit Surveys
administered by Environmetrics for
zoos have included questions to measure
education and conservation outcomes
for visitors to the Zoos. The percentage
of Taronga visitors who agreed they had
‘discovered new things that I didn’t know
before’ and agreed that they had ‘learnt
more about things I already knew about ’
has increased at Taronga.
The percentage of Taronga Western
Plains Zoo visitors who agreed ‘it was
all very familiar to me’ dropped over the
period which is a good result because
it means they have learned new things
when they visited.
The survey uses the same questions as
those used by Environmetrics at similar
learning places, such as botanic gardens
and museums, enabling a measurement
of the Zoos’ education outcomes with
comparable venues.
Design Studio
The Design Studio provides graphic
design services for both Zoos. The
team creates and project manages
environmental, exhibition, marketing and
promotional pieces, whilst also playing
a key role in the conceptualisation and
realisation of the Zoos’ Master Plan
environmental signage.
Design Studio staff implemented pivotal
concepts such as:
•• Ensuring increased understanding
of the Zoos’ conservation efforts and
animal breeding initiatives,
•• Strategic projects to boost awareness
of the Zoo brands and sub-brands
through online, multimedia and
print media,
•• Positioning the Zoos as dynamic and
responsive conservation and cultural
ambassadors, and
•• Creating holistic graphic environments
within exhibit areas to appeal to various
age and educational requirements.
Major activities this year included:
•• Implementation and roll-out of the
new Taronga Conservation Society
Australia rebranding package,
•• ‘Great Southern Oceans’
conceptualisation and design for
exhibit, heritage and climate change
environmental graphics,
ABOVE: In January, the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia was launched with new logos
unveiled for both Zoos.
•• Development of implementation
packages for Taronga Zoo’s Top Entry
Plaza construction planning phase,
•• Collateral for Fundraising and
Sponsorship including the ‘Great
Southern Oceans’, Elephant Breeding
and Tasmanian Devil campaigns,
•• Full suite of collateral for the newly
launched Taronga Training Institute,
•• Updating the way-finding signage for
the benefit of Zoo visitors together
with new enhanced way-finding maps
at both Zoos, and
•• Environmental graphics for various
upgrades across both Zoos.
Information Technology (IT)
Leveraging the substantial technical
planning from the previous year and
embracing some of the whole of NSW
Government arrangements, IT focused
on the technical delivery and roll out of
three strategic business projects:
•• Venue Management System (VMS) –
with support from vendor, Centaman,
the VMS continued to dominate IT’s
focus throughout the year in support
of business initiatives. A continuous
program of developing system maturity
is in place to refine operations,
•• Computerised Maintenance
Management system (CMMS) – to
enable improved operations, cost
reductions and strategic planning,
IT assisted the Capital Works and
Infrastructure Division to move
to a new system called Archibus.
With an additional server and client
deployments, Archibus continues
to extend its reach to a whole of
business solution for building and
exhibit maintenance, and
•• Public Website – the relaunch of the
public website and shop providing a
better interface with the public.
Other highlights included:
•• Local Area Network (LAN) – as
part of a continuous maintenance
improvement program, IT
commissioned the installation of
many new fibre links to extend
network reach to five other buildings.
Other links and network equipment
were also upgraded strategically to
enhance the Disaster Recovery Plan
strategy by making the network more
redundant. With excellent support
from ‘DLink’ and ‘CRC Networks’,
other key benefits included increases
in performance, capacity and
extended wireless capability;
•• Telecommunications – the resigning
of Macquarie Telecom under the NSW
State Government contract delivered
a six fold increase of the Wide Area
Left: Roslyn Payne, Duty Officer,
Taronga Western Plains Zoo: “I love
working at such a great location and
looking out over the Savannah Lake
everyday is just fabulous.”
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY
Mandy Quayle
Below: Russell Mullins, Retail Buying
Manager, Taronga Zoo: “In retail we
are striving to enhance our visitors’
experience by providing interesting
exclusive branded mementoes of their
visits. Good results from the shops show
we are on the right track.”
photograph courtesy
Bobby Jo Vial
Network (WAN) link connecting both
Zoos and savings of 30% on the
Zoos’ telephone bills, and
•• Storage – the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia took a strategic
investment with its partner IBM to
implement a flexible and expandable
Storage Area Network system to meet
the growing demands of the business.
On-going maintenance and support
work included:
•• upgrading/replacement of
approximately 150 computers and
various peripheral devices,
•• the addition of a fifth radio channel
and a new supporting vendor at
Taronga to manage increasing
communication needs,
•• recovery from three major lightning
strikes, and
•• the adoption of NSW whole of
government SAP agreement.
Partners in technology include:
3D Networks Australia, Clicks
Technology Recruiters, Centaman
Systems, Computer Associates, CRC
Networks, Creative Digital Technology,
D-Link, Data #3, Elam Communications,
Fuji Xerox, Hallam Racks, IBM, ICAD
Consultants Pty Ltd, IQ Information
Technology, Macquarie Bank Ltd,
Macquarie Telecom Pty Ltd, Message
Labs Australia, Metro Communications
Pty Ltd, Microsoft, Nexon Asia Pacific,
Pear shop, Presence of IT, QQQ
Systems Pty Ltd, Sales Success,
SAP, Servantix, Tardis, The Adweb
Agency, UPS Solutions, WatchGuard
Technologies Inc.
All partners have contributed to the
success of the many information
technology projects and
implementations at both Zoos.
Admissions – Taronga Zoo
Taronga’s total visitation increased
by 2% over the financial year to a
total number of 1,270,505 visitors,
which includes Zoo Friends members
and guests to the annual Twilight
Concert Series.
The arrival of the elephants, the birth of
the Red Panda cubs, a baby Binturong
and a Dhole pup all helped to attract
extra visitation, resulting in a very
busy year for the Guest Services and
Admission staff.
52
Admissions – Taronga
Western Plains Zoo
A total number of 220,162 people
visited Taronga Western Plains Zoo
this year which is 4% below last year.
The increase in fuel prices and the
downturn in the domestic tourism
market are creating a flow on effect that
has reduced the number of visitors to
Taronga Western Plains Zoo.
Retail – Taronga Zoo
Taronga Zoo’s retail team achieved
record profits again this year of $1,071
591, by increasing spend from $3.78
last year to $3.95 and increasing sales
by 3%.
Product improvement has been a
priority this year along with improving
the gross profit percentage against
budget through careful buying and
stock management.
The re-opening of the renovated lower
shop in October meant that visitors were
provided with an additional entry point
as well as a themed ‘Great Southern
Oceans’ ZooShop. Over 125 new
products were specifically developed to
compliment the wildlife species seen in
the new exhibit and these products have
accounted for 6% of total sales. The
best sellers in this range have been the
exclusively developed “Miya”, Australian
Sea-lion and “Mr Munro” the Fiordland
Crested Penguin soft toys.
Taronga Zoo Shop won the NSW
Tourism Award for Specialised Services
for a second year for excellence in
enhancing the visitor experience and
integration with other tourism products.
Retail – Taronga Western
Plains Zoo
This year’s operating revenue in retail
and souvenir sales at Taronga Western
Plains Zoo was $1,142,822. This
represents an increase of 5.7% over
that of the last year. The sales per capita
of $5.40, a 10% increase on last year,
reflects the ongoing efforts of the retail
team to offset the downturn in visitation.
Bicycle and Cart Hire –
Bicycle and electric cart hire gross
earnings of $549,001 were up by 4.5%
on the previous year, while the per capita
figure of $2.59 was 8.9% up on last
year’s figures. These increasing figures
have made a positive contribution on the
Zoo’s bottom line.
Catering – Taronga Zoo
The key performance indicator of
spend per visitor for in-ground catering
improved by 3% over budget. Revenue
generated through the Taronga Function
Centre decreased by 7%. Overall
catering profits for the year achieved
growth of 0.3%.
The Taronga Food Market reinforced
its appeal as an ideal location offering
a variety of choices for everyone
while providing excellent elephant
viewing opportunities.
The in-grounds catering operation
enhanced its profile and increased
per caps during peak periods through
the introduction of the newly themed
Streets Seal Beach Huts offering ice
creams, beverages and snacks to families
picnicking in the ‘Great Southern Oceans’
surrounds. Four additional carts around
the Zoo and smaller mobile vending
outlets provide convenient food and
beverages around large gathering areas.
Additionally, the main carts remained
open until 5.00 pm which was a
welcomed amenity for departing visitors.
In November Compass Group made a
significant change in their management
structure at Taronga, introducing a new
General Manager whose focus initially
was to improve performance which had
been slow in the first half of the year.
The new General Manager assessed
and revised the marketing plan to better
align the strategies to increase function
business which has since proven to be
effective.
The Taronga Centre function rooms
were officially renamed Harbourview
Terrace and Harbourview Ballroom
respectively and the Beastro was
renamed Harbourview Garden Court to
better represent the key advantages of
these sites to potential function clients.
Catering – Taronga Western
Plains Zoo
Gross earnings for in-house catering
were $1,525,060, 2.7% below last
year. The sales per capita figure for
in-grounds catering was a strong $ 5.02,
up 6.1% on last year. Bahkita’s Café
continues to contribute to the strong
trading result.
ANZ Conservation Theatre
During this year 221 functions were
held at the ANZ Conservation Theatre
at Taronga Zoo with a total of 21,830
guests attending. These included
conferences, workshops, recitals, award
presentations, fundraisers, photographic
exhibition, ballet and orchestral
performances, education, environmental
and conservation events.
Clients during the year included,
Coca Cola, Kawasaki, Attorney
General Departments’ Canberra and
Sydney, Animal Dreaming Pty Ltd,
TG Avelsgaard, State and Federal Police,
National Geographic Channel, several
sections of DET, The Spastic Centre and
a five day ARAZPA conference hosted
by Taronga Zoo.
In-house events included fundraisers,
lectures, employment assessments, staff
training and meetings as well as lessons
and other activities for large school
groups via the Education Centre.
Zoofari Lodge
Zoofari Lodge continues to place
Taronga Western Plains Zoo at the top
of unique accommodation in NSW and
continues to deliver strong financial
returns for the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia. This year builds on the
Lodge’s success by reaching an annual
occupancy of 73% and revenues of
$1,841,494.
Cleaning
Taronga Zoo’s Cleaning department
experienced its first year with a new
in-house management structure which
had an excellent start to the year with
survey results showing a 95% approval
rating. However, Taronga experienced
some attrition in staffing levels and
difficulty in recruitment which proved
to be challenging throughout the peak
operating periods and experienced a
downward trend in cleanliness of the
grounds during the colder months.
Sky Safari
The Sky Safari continues to be a major
component for the visitors’ great day
out as well as providing an attractive
enhancement to the Zoo’s in-grounds
evening functions. It has been operating
at Taronga Zoo for more than eight years
continuously with only brief stoppages
for weather and minor maintenance and
has reached the key milestone of 22,500
hours of operation. In view of this key
milestone, a major maintenance plan has
been developed for the 2008–09 period
during which time the Sky Safari will be
assessed and upgraded to ensure the
high operational standards and guest
service delivery are maintained.
In late 2007 the NSW Fire Brigade
Rescue Division formally accepted the
sole responsibility of Sky Safari rescue
if necessary. Due to this welcomed
restructure, the Taronga Zoo part time
evacuation team will no longer be
required for rope rescue, but remains
in place as ground support. This new
arrangement has provided a high level
of expertise and support structure in the
overall Sky Safari operations.
•• Ongoing sponsorship of Dubbo’s
largest business achievement awards,
Community and
Social Responsibilities
•• Removal of rubbish from areas
surrounding the Zoo by Taronga Zoo
staff and volunteers as part of Clean
Up Australia activities,
To ensure both Zoos play an active role
in fostering community involvement
by holding events that create a sense
of belonging and working towards
common goals, support for a broad
range of charity, community and special
needs groups was provided by both
Zoos in the forms of discount entry
prices and complimentary passes.
Some of the community organisations
include Stewart House, The Make A
Wish Foundation, Ronald McDonald
House, Sydney City Mission, various
refugee groups, Youth off the Street,
Exodus Foundation, Rotary, Randwick
and Westmead Children’s Hospitals and
Bear Cottage.
Media Relations events and activities
continued to raise awareness of the
Zoos across the widest possible crosssection of society including various
ethnic community radio stations and
newspapers such as The Italian Herald,
The Australian Chinese Weekly and The
Spanish Herald.
Other activities included:
•• The Rotary Zoo Safari Fun Run
held annually at Taronga Western
Plains Zoo,
•• The Juvenile Justice Centre and
Department of Corrective Services
inmates’ work experience program
at the Zoo,
•• Taronga Western Plains Zoo support
of Greater West Area Health’s ‘Adopt
a Doc’ program which showcases
visiting medical specialists to
demonstrate the lifestyle amenities
available in Dubbo,
•• Support for the Dubbo Department
of Sport and Recreation’s
school holiday activities program
for disadvantaged children,
54
O
•• The Junior World Orienteering
Championships staged at Taronga
Western Plains Zoo,
•• Support for disadvantaged families in
the local area through the Community
Development Service Expenditure
Program in conjunction with
Dubbo RSL,
•• Taronga Zoo staff presented a
combined Animals of the Dreaming
and Bird Show as well as supporting
reconciliation by creating a ‘Sea of
Hands’ to help celebrate NAIDOC
Week, and
•• An Aboriginal youth mentoring
program held at ‘Backyard to Bush’ in
conjunction with the Department of
Community Services (DOCS).
Records Management and
Archive Office
Australia Records Office responded
to over 60 written and electronically
submitted requests from members of the
public for historical information. It also
processed a number of internal requests.
The Zoo photo collection is growing
thanks to support from a very generous
public. Other collections of books and
small pieces of Zoo history are being
regularly added to, providing much
interest for staff and the public.
A new archive facility was developed
during the year enabling the relocation
of many valuable Zoo artifacts to a more
centralised location.
Risk Management
Australia operates in a commercially
competitive environment and raises
approximately 75% of its operating
revenue from its own sources.
The major risks relating to income
generation and expenditure control
include the weather, increases in
commercial competition, unplanned
increases in labour costs, general
community economic factors impacting
on disposable income, the condition
ABOVE: New members were inducted into the
Community Fire Unit (CFU) at Taronga Western
Plains Zoo. Operating for seven years, the
Zoo’s CFU is the only unit in NSW to be made
up entirely of employees from one organisation.
PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY
Shallon McReaddie
of buildings and enclosures and the
provision of funding from public
and private sources. In recent times,
global factors such as international
conflicts, medical emergencies, declining
tourism, terrorism and domestic
situations, including drought, have also
affected income.
Australia’s Risk Management Plan
includes a monthly review of income
and expenditure levels and the taking
of appropriate corrective action. It also
includes market-testing the provision
of services to obtain the best practice
service delivery for cost, undertaking
capital redevelopment programs at
both Zoos and the expansion of the
commercial base including new product
initiatives. The Taronga Conservation
Society Australia is also insured against
loss in key areas of its operations and
assets including public liability, property
and fidelity guarantee.
In accordance with the Treasurer’s
Disaster Recovery Plan to ensure key
data retrieval ability in the event of a
disaster, the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia has also established
a Risk Management Steering
Committee comprising representatives
Australia and its external assessors,
Richard Oliver International, which
meets quarterly. The Internal Audit
Committee, comprising representatives
Australia, Ernst & Young and the Audit
Office, meets regularly to review the
internal audit process and review risk
management issues.
OurOurpeople
people
Monique Counihan, Keeper, Taronga Western
Plains Zoo “I delight in seeing visitors’
amazement when they encounter our animals
up close as well as being able to educate them
about conservation on a personal level. “
photograph Courtesy Channel
Seven, THE ZOO
07
08
Severity Rate
Lost time injury frequency/ workplace accidents for both Zoos
28.7
27.1
Staff Turnover
Taronga Zoo
14.4%
9.5%
15.7%
11.3%
Satisfied Visitors
Taronga Zoo
86%
87%
84%
84%
Complaints per 1,000 visitors
Taronga Zoo
Zoofari Lodge
0.09
0.19
0.11
0.10
0.33
0.01
Our people
Principal areas of
activity
Goals
Objectives
•• Human Resource Management,
People
People
To provide a stimulating and rewarding
environment that encourages our people
to invest their skills and talents in the
future of our Zoos.
To continue to:
Customers
•• maintain a fair workplace with
transparent and consistent human
resource management practices,
•• Payroll, Recruitment and HR Services,
•• Occupational Health and Safety and
Risk Management,
•• Environmental Policy and
Management,
•• Employee and Industrial Relations,
•• Equity and Diversity,
•• Employee Training and Development,
•• Organisation Development and
Change Management,
•• Customer Service,
•• Visitor Information,
To provide Zoo visitors with a wildlife
experience that far exceeds their
expectations and engages, inspires and
motivates them to restore and preserve
the natural heritage.
Environmental Programs
To demonstrate leadership in
environmental care and management
practices that minimise our impact on
the natural environment.
•• Market Research,
•• Zoo Friends and Volunteers.
Performance Indicators cont ...
Water Consumption (mega litres)
Domestic (TZ & TWPZ)
River (TWPZ)
Recycled (TZ)
Total
Energy Consumption
Electricity (kWhrs)|
Black
Green
Gas
Natural Gas (MJ)
LPG (kg)
Fuel (L)
Unleaded
Diesel
Waste Recycled at both Zoos
Tonnes
Public Place Recycling
Green Waste
Animal Waste
Paper/ Cardboard
Toner Cartridges
56
•• provide a workplace which protects
the health and safety of employees
and visitors,
•• attract and retain superior staff as an
employer renowned for team spirit,
•• enhance organisational capacity
through targeted training and
development,
•• promote the values of equity and
diversity in the workplace, and
•• develop mechanisms for setting
standards, providing performance
feedback and rewarding employees.
07
08
135
520
41
688
185
220
41
446
7,205,959
425,718
8,644,216
549,824
3,108,968
51,220
3,876,006
45,199
45,87
68,172
53,375
77,359
44
278
1957
134
0.12
39
264
2035
220
0.11
Customers
•• To maximise visitor satisfaction and
enjoyment,
•• To create a high level of awareness
by staff and visitors of our mission
and values,
•• To empower employees to ensure that
visitor expectations are exceeded.
Environmental
Management Programs
•• To sustainably and responsibly
manage the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia’s operational impacts
on the environment,
•• To demonstrate sound management
of natural resources and sites of
cultural significance,
•• To demonstrate leadership in
environmental management practices,
•• To involve, motivate and educate the
community on environmental issues.
Human Resources (HR).
Records Manager. In addition, large
recruitment drives were undertaken and
successful appointments were made for
casual Retail, Guest Services, Discovery
Officer and Keeper positions across
both sites.
Organisation Culture Survey
Following on from the 2005 Organisation
Culture Survey, a follow up survey was
conducted to identify what culture
adjustments had been achieved since
the last survey and to again give all
employees the opportunity to provide
information and feedback about what
is important to them in working for the
The survey results showed an overall
improvement in the organisation culture
resulting in better communication, clearer
performance objectives and greater
commitment to customer service and
team work. In continuing its commitment
to seek continuous culture improvement,
further initiatives that support the desired
culture were implemented including an
employee wellbeing program, workplace
giving policy (which enables employees
to make voluntary donations to a range of
in situ and ex situ conservation programs
supported by The Taronga Foundation),
employee public transport travel pass
initiative and a range of strategic planning
and team building days.
Training and Development
Australia continues to develop its
employees through a number of internal
and external training and development
initiatives. In particular, self development
workshops were convened for Managers
and Supervisors at both Zoos, a
mentoring program introduced and
opportunities to attend external courses
and conferences provided.
Human Resources
Information System
(SAP)
HR continues to update SAP to
ensure the Zoos are in line with system
upgrades and Australian Taxation Office
(ATO) requirements. Reporting and
data storage capabilities in SAP have
been strengthened, enabling HR to
produce a range of information including
qualifications, inoculations, certifications
and medical data. HR continues to
coordinate ongoing system training for
staff as well as conducting internal audits
to ensure data accuracy and efficiency.
Taronga Conservation
Society Australia Recruitment
To support the growth of operations
and increased staffing requirements
coinciding with the Taronga
Conservation Society Australia’s Master
Plan, HR has been heavily involved
in recruitment for all divisions to fill
existing and newly established positions.
The Zoos appointed 44 permanent
staff, including the General Manager
Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Diagnostic
Veterinary Pathologist, Manager Life
Sciences Taronga Western Plains
Zoo, Research Biologist AMMRC and
ABOVE: Lisa Brett, Executive Assistant and
Human Resources Officer, Taronga Western
Plains Zoo: “The Zoo is a very unique and
exciting place to work and each day provides
a new challenge with no two days ever being
the same.”
PhotoGRAPH COURTESY Mandy Quayle
Our people
Those employees who may not normally
have the opportunity to attend were
encouraged to participate in the
ARAZPA Conference held at Taronga
Zoo. The conference provided these
staff with new insights to the zoological
industry and networking opportunities.
In addition, 12 employees were awarded
Zoo Friends Fellowships. These
grants, provided by the Zoo Friends
Association, encourage further employee
development and contribution to the
with staff undertaking trips to the USA,
UK, Germany and Africa as well as
within Australia studying behavioural
enrichment, breeding, training and
research programs for a variety
of species.
Staff Recognition
Australia continues to acknowledge
employees who invest their skills and
talents in both Zoos. The annual “Silver
Shovel” awards were held in October
recognising outstanding achievements
in categories including animal
management, breeding success, exhibit
design, innovation and conservation and
environment initiatives.
morning teas enabling keepers to show
their appreciation by providing home
baked treats for the Volunteers.
Long serving employees were
honoured in an annual ceremony held
in November and a further 16 inductees
were welcomed into the prestigious
“20 Year Club” which now boasts over
60 members consisting of past and
present employees. This group’s annual
dinner was held at Taronga Western
Plains Zoo in November.
The annual ARAZPA Conference was
held at Taronga Zoo from 9 to 13 March
and was attended by over 200 delegates
representing more than 40 zoological
institutions from the Australasian
region. The conference theme was
Zoos 21C: Global Powerhouse for
Conservation. Papers and posters
presented throughout the conference
were on a variety of subjects, including
climate change, advocacy, collective
influence, education, sustainable
collection planning, surviving in the
business world and the amphibian crisis.
Brilliant weather, inspiring presentations,
dynamic workshops and Taronga’s
world renowned hospitality combined
to produce a very successful and
thoroughly enjoyable event with over
$5,000 raised toward ARAZPA’s ‘Year
of the Frog’ at the conservation auction
and over $2,000 contributed by the
delegates toward offsetting the carbon
footprint of the event.
Volunteers
Australia’s Volunteer program saw 120
new participants inducted in April and
October, several of those being new
Taronga Training Institute students
looking to further their practical keeping
experience. The contribution of the
Zoos’ many volunteers was particularly
recognised during National Volunteers
Week in May with daily “thank you”
ARAZPA Conference 2008
Industrial Relations
Cooperative relationships continue to
be maintained between the Taronga
Conservation Society Australia and
workplace unions. Section 19 of the
Industrial Relations Act 1996 provides
for the periodic review of state awards.
The scheduled review of the Taronga
Employees Award was completed this
year, with the efficient and effective
collaborative efforts of the Taronga
Conservation Society Australia and the
Public Service Association of NSW being
acknowledged by the NSW Industrial
Relations Commission in this regard.
LEFT: ‘Jub Jub’ the Green Iguana relaxes with
his keeper, Adam. ‘Jub Jub’ is one of three of
these remarkable Iguanas at Taronga Zoo,
sharing his enclosure with two female iguanas.
photograph courtesy
Channel Seven – THE ZOO
58
Equal Employment
Opportunity (EEO)
In January, the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia received a
commendation from the Department
of Premier and Cabinet’s Public Sector
Workforce Office for its achievement
in several EEO initiatives including its
Indigenous Work Release Program at
Taronga Western Plains Zoo.
EEO initiatives implemented this
year include:
•• participation in International Harmony
Day and International Women’s Day
celebrations,
•• partnerships with the Department of
Corrective Services and Department
of Juvenile Justice facilitating
Community Service Order Scheme,
Periodic Detention Program and
Juvenile Justice community services
opportunities, and
•• continued advertising of vacant
positions through multicultural
community networks.
The luncheon held to celebrate
International Women’s Day featured
Ms Gae Raby (Board Member) as
special guest. Ms Raby provided the
female staff group with wonderful
insights to her career journey and
inspiring messages for working women.
Australia became a signatory of the
NSW Government’s Dignity and
Respect in the Workplace Charter and
has partnered with the Public Service
Association of NSW to develop and
deliver Dignity and Respect in the
Workplace training at both Zoos.
For details of the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia’s commitment to equal
opportunity, see Appendix 13 (EEO
Target Groups), Appendix 23 (Ethnic
Affairs Priority Statement) and Appendix
24 (Action Plan for Women).
This year the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia continued to achieve
successful outcomes in relation to its
Aboriginal Employment Achievement
Strategy including:
•• The establishment of a relationship
with the Aboriginal Employment
Strategy (AES), a not for profit
organisation, to provide ongoing
mentoring and support to Aboriginal
employees. In addition, the AES
advertise Zoo employment
opportunities and provide guidance
and support to Aboriginal applicants in
the recruitment process,
•• An increase in the number of
Aboriginal employees at all levels of
employment at both Zoos to improve
equity of employment opportunity
for the indigenous population with
three positions for targeted Aboriginal
employment being identified including
a ‘Backyard to Bush’ Keeper and
two Education Officer positions
all advertised in indigenous media
such as the Koori Mail and the
Indigenous Times,
•• The promotion and delivery of
Aboriginal culture to national and
international visitors through NAIDOC
week celebrations which include
three weeks of Aboriginal-themed
Bird Shows, Acknowledgment of
Country at the beginning of each day
and at the beginning of each visitor
presentation, flying the Aboriginal
flag at the Zoo’s main entrance
and hosting the ‘Sea of Hands’ for
reconciliation, and
•• Provision of cross-cultural
awareness training for the senior
management team.
Occupational Health, Safety
and Environment
Injury Management Strategy
Australia is currently part of the Working
Together Program which is a three year
strategy to secure improvements in
the Public Sector’s Health and Safety
performance with a direct focus on injury
management. The Injury Management
Strategy measures agencies target
progress in relation to workplace
injuries and rehabilitation. Results to
date indicate a 43% reduction in the
average cost of claims. The Taronga
Conservation Society Australia is a high
performer in relation to offering injured
workers suitable duties to quickly return
them to the workplace. The Taronga
Conservation Society Australia has
a very proactive approach to injury
management with an emphasis on
divisional managerial responsibility and
training with a focus on injury reduction
management especially in traditionally
high risk areas.
Manual Handling
Manual handling injuries are always
on the agenda for risk minimisation
outcomes and to achieve this
aspiration the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia has implemented a
new Manual Handling Strategy. The
Strategy consists of Key Performance
Indicators for Senior Management,
elevated training requirements, Tool Box
Talks, review of the Manual Handling
Policy, risk assessments targeting
manual handling tasks, mandatory
and documented manual handling
discussions at all divisional meetings,
ergonomic assessments and internal
advertising relating to good manual
handling techniques. Although manual
handling injuries have decreased over
the past five years there is always room
for improvement.
Business Continuity Plan
It is a requirement that all agencies
test their Business Continuity Plan
(BCP) on an annual basis. The Taronga
Conservation Society Australia
initiated an electronic drill in 2008 as
a testing tool. Managers were advised
of the drill one week in advance. The
scenario depicted an overnight storm
that destroyed property, compromised
animal enclosures, flooded the site,
cut the power and severely damaged
trees. This scenario was distributed
electronically on the morning of the drill
and the expectation was that electronic
responses were required by close of
business on the same day. Compliance
of this request was impeccable from the
appropriate managers. The electronic
drill was less disruptive to operational
needs and produced consultative thought
provoking documentation which displayed
top level accountability and ownership.
This paperless exercise was also a good
environmental stewardship initiative.
Environmental
Management Program
Celebrating Community
Sustainability – Earth Hour 2008
To celebrate environmental sustainability
and the role both Zoos have in making
a positive contribution to community
environmental issues Taronga and
Taronga Western Plains Zoos registered
and participated in Earth Hour 2008
by turning off lights or undertaking
activities to formally acknowledge the
event. Visitors to the Education Program
Our people
Roar’n’Snore dined by candle light, a
dedication song was played with lights
dimmed during Taronga’s Twilight
Concert and lighting was turned off at
Zoofari Lodge at Taronga Western Plains
Zoo. In addition, the Environmental
Stewardship Team collectively signed up
over 176 staff members to participate in
the event which was an increase of 17%
from 2007.
Environmental Management System
– Taronga Zoo
This year the Taronga Conservatiion
Society Australia progressed to
the next stage of planning in the
implementation of an Environmental
Management System at Taronga
Zoo. An Environmental Management
System is a system based on an
International Standard (ISO 14000).
The system provides a structured
approach to planning and implementing
environmental protection measures,
ensures compliance with relevant
legislation and minimises environmental
impact. Activities have included impacts
assessment, environmental policy and
legislative framework review and an on
site audit to identify and outline Stages
II and III of the implementation program.
Waste Reduction & Purchasing
Policy (WRAPP) Action – Increasing
Green Purchasing
A ‘Green Purchasing Guide’ was
distributed to assist staff with the
purchase of ‘greener’ office supplies. A
green purchasing awareness session
aimed at increasing the percentage of
recycled content products procured
by the Taronga Conservation Society
Australia. Over six months, results show
a notable increase in the purchase of
office consumables including office
paper, diaries, notebooks and toner
cartridges with recycled content. This
was part of a larger review to increase
the purchase of environmentally
preferable products including
whitegoods, electrical, timber and
wooden products.
Rural Property Management –
An external water audit was
commissioned in May to establish where
water efficiencies and savings can be
made with regard to river and domestic
water consumption. The audit follows
a review of river water allocation as
part of Local Government Integrated
60
Water Cycle Management Strategy.
Water consumption and the health of
river systems have become a critical
area of focus for rural Australia and
therefore will be a key area of focus at
Taronga Western Plains Zoo over the
coming years. The intended water audit
will identify the areas where Zoo water
uses can be improved and ensure future
water demands can be sustainably met
as the Zoo’s operations expand.
Association of Zoo Friends
(Nsw) Inc.
President
Staff Members
General Manager
Stephen Morley (to 10/07)
Office Manager
Pat Durkin
Membership Officers
Pat Phillips (to May 08)
Meaghan Howard
Virginia Hill
Manager Education and Volunteers
and Managing Editor, Zoonooz
Diana Mingaye
Judy Gibson
Vice-President
Assistant Education and Volunteers
Michael Eddy
(elected member to 10/07)
Leonie Saville
(elected member from 11/07)
Council Members
Mary O’Dwyer
(Taronga Volunteer Chairman)
Janne Doyle (Taronga Western Plains
Zoo Volunteer Chairman to 07/07)
Tony Wall (Taronga Western Plains Zoo
Volunteer Chairman from (08/07)
Guy Cooper (TCSA Director and CEO)
William Garton (General Manager,
Taronga Western Plains Zoo to 12/07)
Matthew Fuller (General Manager,
Taronga Western Plains Zoo from
03/08)
Sue Keen (Zoo staff Member to 04/08)
Emma Roberts (Zoo staff member from
(05/08)
Rosemary Swift (Zoo staff Member)
Peter Harlow (Zoo staff Member)
Brian Skingsley (elected member to
10/07)
Cathy Segal (elected member)
Tony Bennett (elected member to
04/08)
Di Sturrock (elected member from
11/07)
Kath Mavromatis (elected member from
11/07)
ZPB Representatives
Catherine Strassberg (Taronga Zoo)
Ian Cox (Taronga Western Plains Zoo)
Leanne Hayter
Editor, Zoonooz
Steve McAuley
Conservation Grants,
Fellowships and Levies
Zoo Friends is very proud to be a major
supporter of Taronga and Taronga
Western Plains Zoos, particularly in
relation to their conservation and
education efforts. Zoo Friends has
experienced exceptional membership
growth, with total membership now over
60,000, including over 470 Volunteers.
This year, Zoo Friends provided over
$1.3 million directly to the Taronga
Conservation Society Australia in the
form of levies and over $375,000
directly to The Taronga Foundation.
It also provided another $150,000
towards the Silvery Gibbons enclosure
and conservation program.
A further $20,000 was granted to fund
staff from both Zoos to attend the
annual ARAZPA conference and a
$40,000 was granted to staff from both
Zoos for Zoo Friends Fellowships.
The aim of the Fellowships is to provide
financial assistance to Zoo staff for
specific study and research in their
various specialised fields. Zoo Friends
is pleased to be able to help staff
undertake projects linked to major
programs, both within Australia and
overseas, to encourage staff to invest
their skills and talent in the future of
both Zoos.
This year’s Fellowships include:
•• a keeper to work at Seal Bay
Conservation Park, Kangaroo Island,
South Australia,
•• a keeper to attend the Elephant
Managers Association conference in
the USA,
•• a research assistant to work on
Leopard Seal research, Primavera
Station Western Antarctic;
•• a keeper to attend penguin and seal
husbandry and training in Auckland,
New Zealand,
•• a manager to present a paper at
the National Wildlife Rehabilitation
Council, Terrigal,
•• a manager to publish the IUCN
Species Recovery Plan for Fijian
Crested Iguana,
•• staff to attend courses offered
through the Institute of Management,
•• a keeper and behavioural biologist to
attend the International Conference
on Environmental Enrichment in
Torquay, England,
•• a keeper to study the incubation
and rearing of Crested Penguins at
SeaWorld San Diego, USA, and
•• Retail staff to attend National Retail
Forum in Sydney.
Zoo Friends Volunteers
Volunteers help the Zoos in a wide
variety of areas, playing a valuable
role as visitor service providers and
educational facilitators. They staff the
Information Centre, handing out maps
and providing guidance and they lead
tours and work Animal Encounter and
Touch Table sessions. Office Volunteers
work daily with Zoo Friends staff helping
process memberships and editorial
volunteers provide input to the Zoo
Friends magazine. Other volunteers
provide a much-needed service to the
Life Sciences staff through the Animal
Watch Program that concentrates on
animal observation and data gathering.
Their input greatly enhances the
Zoo experience for visitors and staff.
Volunteers undertake in-depth training
courses to provide them with the skills
and knowledge to carry out their duties.
Training courses were held for new
Volunteers at both Zoos from March to
September 08.
Last year, Volunteers at both Zoos
gave over 65,987 hours of dedicated
service. This represents an estimated
contribution of $1.98 million based on
average employment costs.
Zoo Friends sincerely thank Clearview
retirement solutions for their three-year
major sponsorship of Volunteers’ uniforms.
Zoo Friends Volunteers are
acknowledged in Appendix 17.
Our Customers
Guarantee of Service
Australia strives to ensure that all
visitors enjoy their Zoo experience,
return regularly and highly recommend
both Zoos as satisfying and worthwhile
recreational and educational venues to
family and friends.
Guest Services and
Visitor Experience
A new Venue Management System,
introduced and implemented in August,
was designed with future operations in
LEFT TO RIGHT: 1. This year, the Association
of Zoo Friends (NSW) Inc. generously provided
$150,000 to Taronga’s Silvery Gibbons
housed within the tropical Wild Asia megaexhibit.
photograph courtesy James Alcock
2. Many Zoo staff members were awarded Zoo
Friends Fellowships which included sending
a keeper to Auckland for an intensive penguin
husbandry course.
Photo Courtesy Rick Stevens
3. Deanne Codd, Guest Services Officer,
Taronga Western Plains Zoo: “I enjoy working
at such a beautiful location and with all the
wonderful people who work here at the Zoo.”
Photo COURTESY Mandy Quayle
Our people
mind. The system is integrated with the
Corporate Services financial component
to provide streamlined reporting and
invoicing. The smoother and more
efficient entry ticketing system has
ensured a faster Zoo entry for visitors.
Security
The Guest Services team continues
to manage the operational challenges
of the ever-changing environment
during the Master Plan implementation.
This year the team has welcomed the
opening of ‘Great Southern Oceans’,
the new seal theatre and renovated
lower shop/entry/exit. Integrated
operating and way finding plans were
put in place to manage visitor flows in
and out of this area.
Major Sydney events including the
APEC Summit and the Sydney Harbour
Power Boat Races created fresh
logistical challenges to be overcome
with traffic and pedestrian control in and
around the Zoo.
In February when construction of the
new car park began, car park spaces
were reduced from 500 to 100
including 20 spaces for Zoo Friends
Volunteers and six spaces for disabled
patrons. Taronga Conservation Society
Australia staff members have minimised
the impact on visitors by parking 400
metres away from the Zoo to keep
adjacent neighbourhood street parking
for Zoo patrons. A flier detailing the
building of the car park, including a
map of the adjacent area and details
of ease of traveling by pubic transport,
was developed for the Guest Services
team to hand out to arriving visitors. Not
only did this help explain the immediate
impact but also provided an opportunity
for Guest Services staff to talk to visitors
about discounted admission prices
available when using public transport.
The Animal Encounters team continued
to grow the digital photography program
by introducing an owl encounter
following the bird shows. The program
saw a gross income of $380,000.
In addition, an Animal Encounters
Committee with representatives from
every Zoo division, was formed to
develop strategies to implement relevant
educational and value added products.
A solid and consistent effort by
the Security Team 24 hours a day
throughout the year has resulted in
the provision of a safe and secure
environment for Zoo visitors and staff.
Progression of the Master Plan
projects including the completion
of ‘Great Southern Oceans’ and the
commencement of work on the new car
park have placed high demands on the
Security Team in liaising and facilitating
the myriad of contacts, communications,
traffic control aspects and processes
these works generate on a daily basis.
Market Research
Self-completion Customer Satisfaction
Surveys, developed by Environmetrics,
continued. Results were analysed and
key visitor satisfaction results at each
Zoo are outlined below.
A clear profile of Zoo customers has
also been developed based on collation
of data from a variety of sources
including in-ground self completion
surveys, postcode analysis and industry
sources. Findings assist development
of marketing and communication
campaigns and ongoing visitor services.
In addition, the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia used respected
AC Nielsen to establish the level
of community support for the Zoos’
endeavours and overall positioning.
Visitor Customer Satisfaction levels – 12 month average:
Visitor Satisfaction Levels
Taronga
Zoo
06/07
Taronga
Taronga
Taronga
Zoo
Western
Western
07/08 Plains Zoo Plains Zoo
06/07
07/08
Overall satisfaction
4.3
4.2
4.4
4.2
Seats/rest areas
4.2
4.0
4.4
4.5
Ease of finding way around
4.0
4.0
4.5
4.6
Ease of moving around
4.2
4.2
4.8
4.7
Visibility of animals
4.1
4.1
4.4
4.4
Welfare of animals
4.3
4.2
4.8
4.7
Variety of animals
4.7
4.8
4.8
4.4
Helpfulness of staff
4.5
4.4
4.5
4.5
Shows and keeper talks
4.7
4.5
4.3
4.5
Cleanliness of grounds /facilities
4.6
4.6
4.9
4.8
Presentation of gardens/landscaping
4.6
4.6
4.9
4.8
12 month average converted to an average out of 5
5 = very satisfied
1 = very dissatisfied
Results remain high at Taronga flowing from the opening of new exhibits, visitor
facilities, way finding signage, upgraded maps, enhanced guest services and animal
presentations. Taronga Western Plains Zoo results continue to hold strong with
satisfaction levels in excess of the 80% percentile.
62
Financial Report
Financial Report
Statement
Independent Audit Report Income Statement
64
65
67
68
69
Statement of recognised
income and expense
70
Cash Flow Statement
101
103
104
105
Notes to and forming part of the financial statements
71
Statement of Recognised
Income and Expense
106
Notes to and Forming
Part of the Financial Statements
107
Balance Sheet
Cash Flow
Zoological Parks Board Division Financial Statements
and Notes
Board Division Statement
Independent Audit Report
Income Statement
Balance Sheet
100
100
Financial Report
Zoological Parks Board of New South Wales
Financial Statements and Notes
for the year ended 30 June, 2008
Statement
Pursuant to section 41 B of the Public Finance and Audit Act 1983 and in accordance with a resolution of the Zoological Parks
Board of New South Wales, we being members of the Board state that:
(a) in our opinion the financial statements and notes thereon exhibit a true and fair view of the financial position and transactions
of the Zoological Parks Board of New South Wales for the year ended June 30 2008;
(b) the financial report has been prepared in accordance with authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting
Standards Board which include Australian equivalents to International Accounting Standards and the requirements of the
Public Finance and Audit Act 1983 and Regulation 2005; and
(c) we are not aware of any circumstances which would render any particulars included in the financial report to be misleading
or inaccurate.
Chairman of the Board
64
Member of the Board
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Board Australia of NSW Annual Report 2008 65
Financial Report
66
Income Statement
for the financial year ended 30 June 2008
Notes
Revenue
Admissions
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
26,353
26,353
24,761
24,761
Trading and Franchise Revenue
2
8,765
8,765
8,673
8,673
Corporate Sponsorship
Government Grants
Other Income
3
4
2,636
36,154
12,078
2,636
36,154
12,078
2,379
34,975
10,875
2,379
34,975
10,875
85,986
85,986
81,663
81,663
32,556
–
30,519
–
4,016
–
1,213
–
5(b)
–
36,572
–
31,732
2
2,862
2,862
2,834
2,834
Total Revenue
Expenditure
Employee Benefits
5(a)
Superannuation
Personnel Services
Trading Cost of Sales
Marketing Expenses
5(c)
2,246
2,246
2,427
2,427
10, 11
9,437
9,437
10,258
10,258
Insurance
1(u)
615
615
706
706
Maintenance
5(d)
4,966
4,966
4,486
4,486
Finance Costs
1(t)
2,559
2,559
2,226
2,226
6
10,426
10,426
10,021
10,021
Total Expenditure
69,683
69,683
64,690
64,690
SURPLUS FOR THE YEAR
16,303
16,303
16,973
16,973
Depreciation and Amortisation
Other Expenses
The accompanying notes form part of these Financial Statements.
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
Balance Sheet
as at 30 June 2008
Notes
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
18 (a)
15,307
15,307
6,687
6,687
Trade and Other Receivables
8
4,523
4,523
3,328
3,328
Inventories
9
1,269
1,269
1,271
1,271
21,100
21,100
11,286
11,286
Current Assets
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Total Current Assets
Non-Current Assets
Property, Plant and Equipment
10
273,174
273,174
258,372
258,372
Intangible Assets
11
203
203
262
262
14(b)
239
–
1,198
–
Total Non-Current Assets
273,616
273,377
259,832
258,634
Total Assets
294,716
294,477
271,118
269,920
Other
Current Liabilities
Trade and Other Payables
12
6,477
13,187
7,289
13,298
Interest Bearing Liabilities
13
340
340
–
–
Provisions
14
6,642
–
6,825
–
13,459
13,527
14,114
13,298
Total Current Liabilities
Non-Current Liabilities
Interest Bearing Liabilities
13
40,122
40,122
38,481
38,481
Provisions
14
306
–
382
–
Total Non-Current Liabilities
40,428
40,122
38,863
38,481
Total Liabilities
53,887
53,648
52,977
51,779
240,829
240,829
218,141
218,141
106,627
106,627
100,242
100,242
134,202
134,202
117,899
117,899
240,829
240,829
218,141
218,141
Net Assets
Equity
Reserves
Accumulated Funds
Total Equity
68
19
Cash Flow Statement
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
52,338
52,338
53,900
53,900
527
527
317
317
Government Capital Grant
20,471
20,471
20,299
20,299
Government Recurrent Grant
15,168
15,168
14,676
14,676
515
515
–
–
89,019
89,019
89,192
89,192
(59,424)
(59,424)
(58,377)
(58,377)
(2,575)
(2,575)
(2,078)
(2,078)
(61,999)
(61,999)
(60,455)
(60,455)
27,020
27,020
28,737
28,737
(20,474)
(20,474)
(34,137)
(34,137)
Notes
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY OPERATING
ACTIVITIES
Receipts from Customers and Sponsors
Interest Received
Government Other Grant
Payments to Suppliers and Employees
Interest and Other Costs of Finance Paid
Net Cash Flows Provided by Operating Activities
18(b)
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY INVESTING
ACTIVITIES
Payments for Property, Plant and Equipment
Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant and Equipment
80
Net Cash Flows used in Investing Activities
(20,394)
80
(20,394)
17
(34,120)
17
(34,120)
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY FINANCING
ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from Borrowings
1,994
1,994
Repayment of Borrowings
–
–
9,000
9,000
(340)
(340)
Net Cash Flows Provided by Financing Activities
1,994
1,994
8,660
8,660
Net Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents
8,620
8,620
3,277
3,277
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Financial Year
6,687
6,687
3,410
3,410
15,307
15,307
6,687
6,687
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Financial Year
18(a)
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
Statement of Recognised Income and Expense
Net increase in Property, Plant and Equipment Asset
Revaluation Reserve
Notes
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
19
6,384
6,384
8,592
8,592
6,384
6,384
8,592
8,592
16,303
16,303
16,973
16,973
22,687
22,687
25,565
25,565
TOTAL INCOME AND EXPENSE RECOGNISED
DIRECTLY IN EQUITY
Surplus for the Year
TOTAL INCOME AND EXPENSE RECOGNISED FOR
THE YEAR
70
19
Notes To and Forming Part of the Financial Statements
for the year ended 30 June 2008
1.Summary of Significant
Accounting Policies
(a) Reporting Entity
The Zoological Parks Board of NSW, as a reporting entity,
comprises all the entities under its control, namely the
Zoological Parks Board (the Board) and the Zoological Parks
Board Division (ZPB Division). The Zoological Parks Board
includes the activities of Taronga Zoo, Western Plains Zoo and
the Taronga Foundation. The ZPB Division was established
on 17 March 2006 under the Public Sector Employment
and Management Act 2002 (PSEMA) to provide personnel
services to the Board. The consolidated Financial Report of
the Board includes the activities of this subsidiary. The Board’s
commercial activities, namely retail, catering, experience
activities and accommodation are also included.
The Zoological Parks Board of NSW is a NSW Government
Trading Enterprise constituted under the Zoological Parks
Board Act 1973. The Zoological Parks Board of NSW is a
not-for-profit entity (profit is not its principal objective). The
reporting entity is consolidated as part of the NSW Total
Sector Accounts.
This consolidated financial report for the year ended 30 June
2008 has been authorised for issue by the Board on 16
October 2008.
(b) Basis of Preparation
The financial report is a general purpose financial report which
has been prepared in accordance with:
ρρ applicable Australian Accounting Standards which
include Australian Equivalents to International Accounting
Standards (AEIFRS),
ρρ the requirements of the Public Finance and Audit Act
1983 and Regulation 2005, and
ρρ specific directions issued by the Treasurer.
The financial report has been prepared on an historical cost
basis, except for land and buildings, plant and equipment and
infrastructure systems, which are recorded at fair value.
(i) Sale of Goods
Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised as revenue
when the Board transfers the significant risks and rewards of
ownership of assets.
(ii)Rendering of Services
Revenue is recognised when the service is provided or by
reference to the stage of completion (based on labour hours
incurred to date).
(iii)Interest Revenue
Interest revenue is recognised using the effective interest
method as set out in AASB 139 Financial Instruments:
Recognition and Measurement.
(iv) Government Grants
The grants received from the NSW government i.e. the social
policy payment for the conduct of the Board’s recurrent noncommercial activities, together with the asset maintenance
and the capital grants are generally recognised as income
when the Board obtains control over the assets comprising the
contributions. Control over grants is normally obtained upon
the receipt of cash.
(v) Sponsorship
All sponsorships and non-reciprocal contributions from the
public are included in the Board’s revenue on receipt. Taronga
Foundation’s pledged donations are not recognised as income
until received.
The value of goods and services received by way of
sponsorship was included in the Board’s revenue for the year
as sponsorship income. The respective goods and services
related to this income are reflected in the appropriate expense
or asset accounts. The values of such sponsorships are
brought to account on the proviso that a fair value of the
sponsorship could be ascertained.
(e) Acquisition of Assets
Judgements, key assumptions and estimations management
has made are disclosed in the relevant notes to the
financial report.
The cost method of accounting is used for the initial recording
of all acquisitions of assets controlled by the Board. Cost is
the amount of cash or cash equivalents paid or the fair value of
the consideration given to acquire the asset at the time of its
acquisition plus the costs incidental to the acquisition.
All amounts are rounded to the nearest one thousand dollars
and are expressed in Australian currency.
Assets acquired at no cost or for nominal consideration are
initially recognised at their fair value at the date of acquisition.
(c) Statement of Compliance
Fair value is the amount for which an asset could be
exchanged between knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm’s
length transaction.
The Board’s financial statements and notes comply with
Australian Accounting Standards, which include AEIFRS.
(d) Revenue Recognition
Revenue is recognised when the Board has control of the
good or right to receive, it is probable that the economic
benefits will flow to the Board, and the amount of revenue can
be measured reliably.
(f) Capitalisation Thresholds
Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets costing
$2,000 and above individually (or forming part of a network
costing more than $2,000) are capitalised.
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
(g) Revaluation of Property, Plant and Equipment
ii)Infrastructure
Physical non-current assets are valued in accordance with the
‘Valuation of Physical Non-Current Assets at Fair Value’ (TPP
07-1). This policy clarifies that the fair value of an asset:
The value of the Board’s infrastructure is based on a desktop
valuation conducted by the Department of Lands in May 2008.
Valuation of the infrastructure includes all site works which are
considered to add value to the site as used and not already
valued as individual fixed assets (such as buildings). This
includes all services, roads and landscaping, etc. The value for
infrastructure was split between the major categories of roads,
services and landscaping and its value to the site expressed at
Written Down Replacement Value. The valuation was increased
by 5.0% for Taronga and 5.0% for Western Plains Zoo during
the 2007/08 financial year to equate to the fair values as at
30 June 2008.
a.Is the most advantageous price reasonably obtainable by
the seller and the most advantageous price reasonably
obtainable by the buyer.
b.Presumes the entity is a going concern, without any
intention to liquidate or materially change the scale
of operations.
c.Presumes that there is an adequate period of marketing.
d.Excludes an estimated price inflated or deflated by special
terms or circumstances such as a typical financing, sale
or leaseback arrangements, special considerations or
concessions granted by anyone associated with the sale.
It further clarifies that fair value is determined by reference to its
‘highest and best use’ taking into account the existing physical,
legal, financial and socio-political environment in which the entity
operates and which results in the highest value.
Property, plant and equipment is measured on an existing use
basis, where there are no feasible alternative uses in the existing
natural, legal, financial and socio-political environment. However,
in the limited circumstances where there are feasible alternative
uses, assets are valued at their highest and best use.
Fair value of land, infrastructure, buildings and plant and
equipment is determined based on the best available market
evidence, including current market selling prices for the same
or similar assets. Where there is no available market evidence,
the asset’s fair value is measured at its market buying price,
the best indicator of which is depreciated replacement cost.
The Board revalues each class of property and plant and
equipment at least every five years or with sufficient regularity to
ensure that the carrying amount of each asset in the class does
not differ materially from its fair value at reporting date. The most
recent full revaluation was performed 30 June 2004. Desktop
revaluations of the Board’s land holdings, buildings, enclosures,
improvements and infrastructure assets were completed in the
2007/08 financial year and were based on an independent
assessment. This is in accordance with the ‘Guidelines for the
Valuation of Physical Non-Current Assets at Fair Value’ (TPP
07-1). Details of the valuations are as follows:
i) Land
A desk top valuation conducted by the Department of Lands in
May 2008, resulted in no change to the land values at Taronga
Zoo and Western Plains Zoo from the fair value reflected as
at 30 June 2007. The land values reflect the sites’ “value in
use” as indicated by the zoning, heritage restrictions and other
controls over the property.
72
iii) Buildings, Enclosures and Improvements
The value of the Board’s buildings, enclosures and
improvements is based on a desk top valuation conducted by
the Department of Lands in May 2008. The carrying value
of these assets has been adjusted by 5.0% and 5.0% during
2008 to reflect these updated valuations.
Revaluation increments are credited directly to the asset
revaluation reserve, except to the extent that an increment
reverses a revaluation decrement in respect of that class of
asset previously recognised as an expense in the surplus/
deficit, the increment is recognised immediately as revenue in
the surplus/deficit.
Revaluation decrements are recognised immediately as
expenses in the surplus/deficit, except that, to the extent
that a credit balance exists in the asset revaluation reserve in
respect of the same class of assets, they are debited directly
to the asset revaluation reserve.
As a not-for-profit entity, revaluation increments and
decrements are offset against one another within a class of
non-current assets, but not otherwise.
Where an asset that has previously been revalued is disposed
of, any balance remaining in the asset revaluation reserve in
respect of that asset is transferred to the accumulated funds.
(h) Impairment of Property, Plant and Equipment
As a not-for-profit entity with no separable cash generating
units, the Board is effectively exempted from AASB 136
Impairment of Assets and impairment testing. This is because
AASB136 modifies the recoverable amount test to the higher
of fair values less costs to sell and depreciated replacement
cost. This means that for an asset already measured at fair
value, impairment can only arise if selling costs are material.
Selling costs are regarded as immaterial.
(i) Depreciation and Amortisation
The Board has adopted a policy whereby depreciation is
calculated on a straight-line basis for all depreciable assets so
as to write off the depreciable amount of each asset as it is
consumed over its useful life. Details of depreciation rates and
methods are as follows:
Category of Asset
Rate of Depreciation
Motor Vehicles
10.0%
Computer Equipment
33.3%
Financial Application
Software
10.0%
Cableway System
– building
– lifts
3.3%
10.0%
– cable system
8.3%
– cabins
6.7%
Other Items
20.0%
Infrastructure
2.5% or 5.56%
Buildings, Enclosures and The rate being determined by the
Improvements
estimated life of the asset
(10–50 years as appropriate).
The Board’s intangible assets are amortised using the straight
line method. Details of amortisation rates are as follows:
Category of Asset
Financial Application and
Other Software
Rate of Amortisation
10.0%–33.3%
These rates are consistent with those used in the previous year.
(i) Maintenance
The cost of day-to-day servicing or maintenance is charged
to expenses as incurred, except where they relate to the
replacement of a part or component of an asset, in which case
the costs are capitalised and depreciated.
(j) Leased Assets
A distinction is made between finance leases which effectively
transfer from the lessor to the lessee substantially all the risks
and benefits incidental to ownership of the leased assets, and
operating leases under which the lessor effectively retains all
such risks and benefits.
Operating lease payments are charged to the Income
Statement in the periods in which they are incurred.
(k) Intangible Assets
The Board recognises intangible assets only if it is probable
that future economic benefits will flow to the Board and the
cost of the asset can be measured reliably. Intangible assets
are measured initially at cost. Where an asset is acquired at
no cost or nominal cost, the cost is its fair value as at the date
of acquisition.
The useful lives of intangible assets are assessed to be
between three and ten years.
Intangible assets are subsequently measured at fair value only if
there is an active market. As there is no active market for some
of the Board’s software classified as intangible assets, these
assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortisation.
In general, intangible assets are tested for impairment where
an indicator of impairment exists. However as a not-for-profit
entity with no cash generating units, the Board is effectively
exempted from impairment testing, (refer note 1(h)).
(l) Employee Benefits
i.Salaries and Wages, Annual Leave, Sick Leave
and On-Costs
Liabilities for salaries and wages and annual leave that
fall due wholly within 12 months of the reporting date
are recognised and measured in respect of employees’
services up to the reporting date at undiscounted amounts
based on the amounts expected to be paid when the
liabilities are settled.
Unused non-vesting sick leave does not give rise to a
liability as it is not considered probable that sick leave
taken in the future will be greater than the benefits
accrued in the future.
All accrued annual leave is treated as a current liability
with the expectation that annual leave will be taken when
due. The on-costs i.e. payroll tax, workers’ compensation
insurance premiums and superannuation which are
consequential to employment have been taken into
account in calculating annual leave provisions.
The outstanding amounts of payroll tax, workers’
compensation insurance premiums, and fringe
benefits tax, which are consequential to employment,
are recognised as liabilities and expenses where the
employee benefits to which they relate have been
recognised.
ii. Long Service Leave
The liability for long service leave is recognised as a
provision and measured as the present value of expected
future payments to be made in respect of services
provided by employees up to the reporting date.
Consideration is given to expected future wage and salary
levels, experience of employee departures and periods of
service. Expected future payments are discounted using
market yields at the reporting date on Government bonds
with terms to maturity that match as closely as possible
the estimated future cash flows.
(m)Animal Collection
The animal collection managed by the Board is reflected in
the Board’s accounting records at one dollar. This is consistent
with worldwide industry practice. The Board regards the
animals as part of a regional and international collection and
not the specific property of the institution.
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
(n) Accounting for Goods and Services Tax
Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the
amount of GST, except where:
ρρ The amount of GST incurred by the Board as a purchaser
that is not recoverable from the Australian Taxation Office
is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of an asset
or as part of an item of expense.
ρρ Receivables and payables are stated with the amount of
GST included.
(o) Trade and other receivables
Trade receivables, which generally have 30 day terms, are
recognised and carried at original invoice amount less an
allowance for any uncollectible amounts. Short term receivables
with no stated interest rate are measured at the original invoice
amount where the effect of discounting is immaterial.
An allowance for impairment is raised when there is objective
evidence that the Board will not be able to collect amounts
due. The credit risk is the carrying amount (net of any
allowance for impairment). Debts which are known to be
uncollectible are written off. No interest is earned on trade
debtors. The carrying amount approximates fair value.
(p) Inventories
Inventories held for distribution are stated at the lower of cost
and current replacement cost. Inventories (other than those held
for distribution) are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable
value. The cost is calculated using the weighted average cost
method. Current replacement cost is the cost the Board would
incur to acquire the asset on the reporting date. Net realisable
value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course
of business less the estimated costs of completion and the
estimated costs necessary to make the sale.
(q) Interest Bearing Liabilities
Loans are not held for trading or designated at fair value
through profit or loss and are recognised at amortised cost
using the effective interest rate method. Gains and losses are
recognised in the income statement on de-recognition.
(r) Payables
Payables are recognised initially at fair value, usually based
on the transaction cost. Trade accounts payable are generally
settled within 30 days.
(s) Finance Costs
Finance costs are recognised as expenses in the period in
which they are incurred in accordance with Treasury’s mandate
to general government sector agencies.
(t) Insurance
The Board’s insurance activities are conducted through Willis
Australia Ltd. The expense (premium) is determined by the
insurers based on claims experience, asset values and risk.
74
(u)New Australian Accounting Standards and
Interpretations Issued but not Effective
At reporting date a number of Australian Accounting
Standards have been issued by the Australian Accounting
Standards Board but are note yet operative. These have not
been adopted early by the Board.
The following is a list of those standards that may have an
impact on the financial report of the entity in the period of
initial application:
ρρ AASB 8 Operating Segments requires segment reporting
to be disclosed based on the internal reports provided to
the Board. This Standard becomes mandatory for 2010
Financial statements.
ρρ Revised AASB 101 Mandatory for the Board’s 2010
Financial Statements.
ρρ Revised AASB 123 Mandatory for the Board’s 2010
ρρ Al 12 Service Concession arrangements. Mandatory for
the Board’s 2009 Financial Statements.
ρρ Al 14 IAS 19 The Limit on a Defined Benefit
Asset, Minimum Funding Requirements and their
Interaction becomes mandatory for the Board’s 2009
(v) Financial Risk Management
The Board has exposure to the following risks from their use
of financial instruments:
ρρ credit risk
ρρ liquidity risk
ρρ market risk
This note presents information about the Board’s exposure to
each of the above risks, its objectives, policies and processes
for measuring and managing risk, and the management
of capital. Further quantitative disclosures are included
throughout this financial report.
The Board of Directors has overall responsibility for the
establishment and oversight of the risk management framework.
The Board has established the Audit and Risk Management
Committee, that is responsible for developing and monitoring
risk management policies. The Committee reports regularly to
the Board of Directors on its activities.
Risk management policies are established to identify and
analyse the risks faced by the Board, to set appropriate risk
limits and controls, and to monitor risks and adherence to
limits. Risk management policies and systems are reviewed
regularly to reflect changes in market conditions and the
Board’s activities. The Board, through its training and
management standards and procedures aim to develop a
disciplined and constructive control environment in which all
employees understand their roles and obligations.
The Group Audit Committee oversees how management
monitors compliance with the Board’s risk management
policies and procedures and reviews the adequacy of the
risk management framework in relation to the risks faced
by the Board.
Credit Risk
Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the Board if a
customer or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to
meet its contractual obligations and arises principally from the
Group’s receivables from customers. The maximum exposure
to credit risk is represented by the carrying amount of the
financial assets (net of any allowance for impairment).
Credit risk arises from the financial assets of the Board,
including cash, receivables and authority deposits. No
collateral is held by the Board. The Board has not granted any
financial guarantees.
Credit risk associated with the Board’s financial assets,
other than receivables is managed through the selection
of counterparties and the establishment of minimum credit
rating standards. Authority deposits held with NSW TCorp are
guaranteed by the State.
Cash
Cash comprises cash on hand and bank balances at call with
ANZ Banking Corporation and NSW Treasury Corporation
which have been rated ÄA”and “AAA” by Standard and Poor’s
respectively. Interest is earned on daily bank balances. At
balance date the cash deposits were earning an average
interest rate of 6.46% (2007 6.3%), the weighted average
interest rate for the year was 6.6% (2007 6.1%). None of
these balances are past due or impaired.
Receivables – Trade Debtors
Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Board will not be able to meet
its financial obligations as and when they fall due. The Board’s
approach to managing liquidity is to ensure, as far as possible,
that it will have sufficient liquidity to meet its liabilities when
they fall due under both normal and stressed conditions.
The Board continuously manages risk through monitoring
future cash flows and maturities planning to ensure adequate
holding of high quality liquid assets. During the current and
prior years, there were no defaults or breaches in any loans
payable. No assets have been pledged as collateral.
Liabilities are recognised for amounts due to be paid in the
future for goods or services received, whether or not invoiced.
An analysis of the maturity profile of the Board’s financial
liabilities is in note 7 of the accounts.
The Board maintains an overdraft facility of $1.5million.
Market Risk
Market risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows
of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in
market prices.
The Board has no exposure to foreign currency risk and does
not enter into commodity contracts.
The Board’s financial instruments comprise, trade receivables
and payables which do not earn/incur interest and fixed interest
treasury loans which are not subject to interest rate fluctuations.
Cash deposited at the bank and in Treasury’s TCorp hourglass
cash facility earns interest at a variable rate. A sensitivity
analysis of the impact of an interest rate rise or fall of 100
basis points is included in Note 7 to these accounts.
All trade debtors are recognised as amounts receivable at
balance date. Collectability of trade debtors is reviewed on an
ongoing basis.
The Board is not materially exposed to concentration of credit
risk to a single trade debtor or group of debtors.
Quantitative disclosures in relation to the ageing and
demographics of debtors are made in Note 7 to these accounts.
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
2. Trading and Franchise Revenue
i)Catering Sales
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
1,525
1,525
1,567
1,567
Less: Cost of Sales
(687)
(687)
(659)
(659)
Gross Profit
838
838
908
908
ii)Souvenir and Book Shop Sales
5,305
5,305
5,119
5,119
Less: Cost of Sales
(2,173)
(2,173)
(2,175)
(2,175)
Gross Profit
3,130
3,130
2,944
2,944
iii) Franchise Revenue
1,935
1,935
1,987
1,987
Total Sales
8,765
8,765
8,673
8,673
(2,862)
(2,862)
(2,834)
(2,834)
5,903
5,903
5,839
5,839
Capital Grant
20,471
20,471
20,299
20,299
Recurrent Grant
15,168
15,168
14,676
14,676
515
515
–
–
36,154
36,154
34,975
34,975
Less Total Cost of Sales
Total Gross Profit
3. Government Grants
Other Grant
76
4. Other Income
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
Animal Sponsorship
366
366
388
388
Animal Encounters
565
565
563
563
Bequests
756
756
223
223
Bike and Cart Hire
549
549
525
525
Car Parking
623
623
749
749
Concert Income
242
242
258
258
147
147
82
82
Donations
Consultancy Fees
1,057
1,057
1,416
1,416
Educational and Recreation Activities
1,705
1,705
1,348
1,348
Event Sponsorship
774
774
712
712
Interest Received
532
532
320
320
Provision of Services
291
291
310
310
Research Project Income
520
520
418
418
Sponsorship of Goods and Services
143
143
430
430
Zoo Friends Grants
100
100
50
50
Zoofari Lodge
1,842
1,842
1,851
1,851
Sundry Income
1,866
1,866
1,232
1,232
12,078
12,078
10,875
10,875
5(a) Employee Benefits
Salaries and Wages
27,908
–
26,704
–
Long Service Leave
410
–
904
–
Payroll Tax
2,561
–
1,602
–
Workers Compensation Insurance
1,274
–
1,029
–
403
–
280
–
32,556
–
30,519
–
Other
Employee related costs amounting to $1,605,327 have been capitalised during the year ($1,502,112 in 2007) and $421,480
($455,802 in 2007) have been transferred to maintenance expenses. These employee related costs are excluded from the above.
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
5(b) Personnel Services
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
Salaries and Wages
–
27,908
–
26,704
Long Service Leave
–
410
–
904
Payroll Tax
–
2,561
–
1,602
–
1,274
–
1,029
Superannuation
–
4,016
–
1,213
Other
–
403
–
280
–
36,572
–
31,732
Advertising
1,162
1,162
1,511
1,511
Promotions
395
395
399
399
Other Marketing
689
689
517
517
2,246
2,246
2,427
2,427
4,545
4,545
4,030
4,030
421
421
456
456
4,966
4,966
4,486
4,486
5(c) Marketing Expenses
5(d) Reconciliation – Maintenance
Contracted labour and other (non employee related)
Employee related maintenance expenses
Total Maintenance Expenses
78
6. Other Expenses
Animal Transport
Animal Husbandry & Research Support
Audit Fees – Audit of Financial Reports
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
118
118
1,146
1,146
1,896
1,896
1,617
1,617
78
78
76
76
Bank Charges & Fees
232
232
219
219
Board Honoraria
221
221
191
191
Cash Collection
150
150
148
148
Communications
421
421
446
446
Computing Costs
455
455
413
413
53
53
25
25
814
814
1,130
1,130
Consultancy
Contract Services
Education Projects
279
279
290
290
Energy Costs
798
798
696
696
58
58
19
19
136
136
48
48
Fund Raising Expenses
Internal Audit Fees
Legal Fees
29
29
45
45
Minor Equipment & Stores
493
493
544
544
Printing & Stationery
447
447
405
405
33
33
8
8
Provision for Impairment of Trade Receivables
Travelling Expenses
373
373
351
351
Vehicle Costs
343
343
339
339
Vehicle Leasing Expenses
234
234
187
187
Water & Sewerage
299
299
219
219
Carrying value of Assets Disposed
– Plant and Equipment
Work in Progress Written-off
Zoofari Lodge Expenses
Sundry Expenses
6
6
8
8
1,039
1,039
–
–
202
202
183
183
1,219
1,219
1,268
1,268
10,426
10,426
10,021
10,021
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
7. Financial Instruments
Financial Instruments give rise to positions that are a financial asset either of the Board or its counterparty and a financial liability
(or equity instrument) of the other party. For the Board these include cash, receivables, investments and payables.
In accordance with AASB 132 Financial Instruments – presentation information is disclosed below in respect of the credit risk and
interest rate risk of financial instruments. All such amounts are carried in the accounts at net fair value unless otherwise stated.
Financial instruments are carried at (amortised) cost, with the exception of TCorp Hour Glass Facilities, which are carried at fair
value. However, the fair value of the other classes of financial instruments approximates their carrying value.
The Board does not enter into or trade financial instruments for speculative purposes. The Board does not use financial derivatives.
Category
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
15,307
15,307
6,687
6,687
3,095
3,095
2,506
2,506
6,438
13,148
7,271
13,280
40,462
40,462
38,481
38,481
Financial Assets
Class:
N/A
Trade and other receivables(1)
Loans and receivables at
amortised cost
Financial Liabilities
Class:
Payables(2)
Borrowings
Financial liabilities
measured at amortised cost
Financial liabilities
measured at amortised cost
(1) Excludes statutory receivables and prepayments in accordance with AASB 7.
(2) Excludes statutory payables and unearned revenue in accordance with AASB 7.
(a) Interest Rate Risk
Financial Instrument
As at the reporting date the interest rate profile of the Company’s and the Group’s interest bearing financial instruments was:
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
–
–
–
–
40,462
40,462
38,481
38,481
15,307
15,307
6,687
6,687
Fixed Rate Instruments
Financial Assets
Variable Rate Instruments
Financial Assets
The Board manages its exposure to interest rate risk by financing borrowings through fixed rate borrowings.
80
Cash Flow Sensitivity Analysis for Interest Rate Risk
A change of 100 basis points in interest rates as at the reporting date would have increased/(decreased) profit and loss and
equity by the amounts shown below.
Impact on Profit or Loss
2008
100bp
Increase
30 June 2008
153
2007
100b bp
Decrease
100bp
Increase
(153)
100bp
Decrease
7
(7)
Impact on Equity
2008
100bp
Increase
153
2007
100b bp
Decrease
(153)
100bp
Increase
100bp
Decrease
7
(7)
(b) Credit Risk
The Carrying amount of the Board’s financial assets represents the maximum credit exposure. The Board’s maximum exposure to
credit risk at reporting date was:
Cash and Cash equivalents
Total Trade Receivables
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
15,307
15,307
6,687
6,687
3,095
3,095
2,506
2,506
18,402
18,402
9,193
9,193
The Board’s maximum exposure to credit risk for trade receivables at the reporting date by type of customer was:
Trade Receivables Owing from NSW Government Entities
248
Trade Receivables Owing from Non-Government Educational Bodies
248
474
474
82
82
41
41
Trade Receivables Owing from Tourism Operators
975
975
329
329
Trade Receivables Owing from Other Entities
324
324
391
391
1,256
1,256
987
987
266
266
309
309
Trade Receivables Owing from Sponsors/Zoofriends
Trade Receivables Owing from Catering Franchise Operator
Less: Allowance for Impairment
(56)
3,095
(56)
3,095
(25)
2,506
(25)
2,506
The Board does not hold any collateral as security over receivables.
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
7. Financial Instruments (continued)
(b) Credit Risk (continued)
Impairment as at 30 June 2008
Consolidated
Gross
2008
Not Past Due
Impairment
2008
Impairment
2007
Gross
2007
2,680
1,232
Past due 0–30 Days
159
378
Past due 31–90 days
211
17
496
Past due > 90 Days
101
39
425
25
3,151
56
2,531
25
The movement in the allowance for impairment in respect of trade receivables during the year was as follows:
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
Balance at 1 July
25
25
26
26
Impairment Loss Recognised
31
31
(1)
(1)
Balance at 30 June
56
56
25
25
The following are the contractual maturities of financial liabilities, including estimated interest payments.
30 June 2008
Carrying
Amount
Contractual
Cash flows
< 6 months
6–12 Months
>1yr <2 yrs
2–5 yrs
> 5 Years
Non-derivative Financial Liabilities
6,438
(6,438)
(6,438)
NSW Treasury Loans
40,462
(56,912)
(1,231)
30 June 2007
Carrying
Amount
Contractual
Cash flows
< 6 months
–
(1,571)
–
(2,441)
–
(23,195)
–
(28,474)
6–12 Months
>1yr <2 yrs
2–5 yrs
> 5 Years
–
–
–
–
Non-derivative Financial Liabilities
NSW Treasury Loans
82
7,271
(7,271)
(7,271)
38,481
(51,487)
(1,726)
(6,241)
(4,270)
(20,898)
(18,352)
8. Trade and Other Receivables
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
3,762
3,762
3,233
3,233
Debtors
Less: Allowance for Impairment
(56)
(56)
(25)
(25)
3,706
3,706
3,208
3,208
817
817
120
120
4,523
4,523
3,328
3,328
Food for Animals
218
218
161
161
Stores and Spare Parts
237
237
264
264
455
455
425
425
Pre-payments
Total Trade and Other Receivables
9. Inventory
Held for Distribution
Held for Resale
Catering
29
29
44
44
Souvenirs
785
785
802
802
814
814
846
846
1,269
1,269
1,271
1,271
Total
10. Property, Plant and Equipment
Work in Progress
$’000
Land and
Buildings
$’000
Plant and
Equipment
$’000
Infrastructure
$’000
Total
$’000
64,136
257,109
5,682
37,776
364,702
(80,000)
(4,103)
(22,228)
(106,331)
64,136
177,108
1,579
15,548
258,372
20,348
327,785
5,947
40,300
394,380
(92,174)
(4,338)
(24,694)
(121,206)
1,608
15,606
273,174
At 1 July 2007
Gross Carrying Amount
Accumulated Depreciation
Net Carrying Amount
–
At 30 June 2008
Net Carrying Amount
–
20,348
235,612
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
10. Property, Plant and Equipment (continued)
Reconciliation
Reconciliations of the carrying amount of each class of property, plant and equipment at the beginning and end of the current
financial year is set out below:
Work in Progress
$’000
Land and
Buildings
$’000
Plant and
Equipment
$’000
Infrastructure
$’000
Total
$’000
Net carrying amount at 1 July 2007
64,136
177,108
1,579
15,548
258,372
Additions
18,279
–
563
–
18,842
Transfers
(61,027)
12
635
Year ended 30 June 2008
Disposals
Written off
–
–
(310)
–
–
(310)
(1,039)
–
–
–
–
5,671
–
713
Depreciation Expense
–
(7,548)
Depreciation on Disposals
–
–
304
–
304
20,348
235,612
1,608
15,606
273,174
33,313
240,840
5,644
34,867
314,664
Revaluation Increment
Net Carrying Amount at 30 June 2008
(1,039)
60,381
(540)
(1,290)
6,384
(9,379)
At 1 July 2006
Net Carrying Amount
(65,263)
(3,783)
(19,176)
(88,222)
33,313
–
175,577
1,861
15,691
226,442
64,136
257,109
5,682
37,776
364,703
(80,000)
(4,103)
(22,228)
(106,331)
177,109
1,579
15,548
258,372
At 30 June 2007
Net Carrying Amount
–
64,136
Reconciliation
Reconciliations of the carrying amount of each class of property, plant and equipment at the beginning and end of the previous
financial year is set out below:
Work in Progress
$’000
Land and
Buildings
$’000
Plant and
Equipment
$’000
Infrastructure
$’000
Total
$’000
Net carrying amount at 1 July 2006
33,313
175,577
1,861
15,691
226,442
Additions
33,224
–
325
–
33,549
Transfers
(2,401)
2,051
2
348
–
Disposals
–
Revaluation Increment
–
7,539
Depreciation Expense
–
(8,058)
Depreciation on Disposals
–
–
318
–
318
64,136
177,109
1,579
15,548
258,372
84
–
(326)
–
(601)
–
(326)
1,053
8,592
(1,544)
(10,203)
Land
Mosman – Taronga Zoo (28.1 hectares)
Zoning: Special uses – Zoological Gardens and Open Space Public Recreation
Valuer-General’s valuation as at 30 June 2008, based on comparable values for open recreation land, $47,500,000.
Dubbo – Western Plains Zoo (758.3 hectares)
Valuer-General’s valuation as at 30 June 2008, based on comparable values for open recreation land, $2,486,000.
11. Intangible Assets
Software
$’000
Total
$’000
1,545
1,545
(1,283)
(1,283)
At 1 July 2007
Cost (Gross Carrying Amount)
Accumulated Amortisation
Net Carrying Amount
262
262
1,545
1,545
(1,342)
(1,342)
At 30 June 2008
Net Carrying Amount
203
203
262
262
–
–
Amortisation
(59)
(59)
203
203
1,533
1,533
(1,264)
(1,264)
Net Carrying Amount at 1 July
Additions (Acquisitions)
At 1 July 2006
Net Carrying Amount
269
269
1,545
1,545
(1,283)
(1,283)
At 30 June 2007
Net Carrying Amount
262
262
Net Carrying Amount at 1 July 2006
269
269
Additions (Acquisitions)
48
48
Amortisation
(55)
(55)
Carrying Amount at 30 June 2007
262
262
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
12. Trade and Other Payables
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
Operating Expense Creditors
2,401
2,401
1,783
1,783
Capital Creditors
1,234
1,234
2,866
2,866
Accruals and Other Creditors
2,842
2,030
2,640
1,926
–
7,522
–
6,723
6,477
13,187
7,289
13,298
40,462
40,462
38,481
38,481
340
340
–
–
–
–
340
340
Amounts Owing to the Division
13. Interest Bearing Liabilities
NSW Treasury Corporation
These loans are due to mature as follows:
Not later than one year
Later than one year but not later than two years
Later than two years but not later than five years
17,790
17,790
340
340
Later than five years
22,332
22,332
37,801
37,801
40,462
40,462
38,481
38,481
41,497
41,497
38,762
38,762
(1,035)
(1,035)
Face Value and Capital Value of Loans
Face Value of Loans
Add Unamortised Premium
Less Discount
Capital Value of Loans
40,462
40,462
(281)
38,481
(281)
38,481
The Board has ministerial approval to draw down a total of $54,770,000 of loans including $37,800,000 for the Master Plan. As
at 30 June 2008 a total of $12,900,000 of loans remains to be drawn down.
86
14. Provisions
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
Annual Leave
2,634
–
2,896
–
Long Service Leave
4,008
–
3,929
–
6,642
–
6,825
–
–
–
–
–
Long Service Leave
174
–
360
–
Superannuation
132
–
22
–
306
–
382
–
6,948
–
7,207
–
Current Liabilities
Annual Leave
Total Employee Related Liabilities
(a) Provisions for Annual and Long Service Leave
In 2007/08, on-costs of $1,356,865 included components for payroll tax calculated at 6.00%, workers compensation calculated
at 5.0% and superannuation calculated at 9.0% of the relevant leave liability ($1,383,957 in 2006/2007).
The leave liabilities that are expected to be settled within twelve months and outside twelve months (discounted) are shown below.
Annual Leave
$’000
Long Service Leave
$’000
Total
$’000
Expected to be settled within twelve months
1,509
369
1,878
Expected to be settled outside twelve months
1,125
3,639
4,764
Total
2,634
4,008
6,642
(b) Superannuation
All unfunded superannuation liabilities at 30 June 2008 have been included as non-current liabilities in the Balance Sheet and
have been charged to superannuation expense in the Income Statement. All surplus balances in a fund at 30 June 2008 have been
included as non-current assets in the Balance Sheet and have been credited to superannuation expense in the Income Statement.
All employees are entitled to superannuation benefits under one of the superannuation schemes, namely First State
Superannuation Scheme (FSS), State Authorities Non-Contributory Superannuation (SANCS) Scheme, State Authorities
Superannuation Scheme (SASS), and State Superannuation Scheme (SSF). All funds are administered by the Superannuation
Administration Corporation trading as Pillar Administration. Employees also have the choice of using other superannuation
schemes and some have opted to do so.
It is the Board’s policy to provide for deferred employer liabilities. For the financial year ended 30 June 2008 the calculation of
this liability was based on an actuarial assessment completed by the Fund’s actuary for the defined benefit scheme administered
by the Pillar Administration. Actuarial gains and losses are recognised in profit or loss in the year they occur.
The superannuation schemes include the State Superannuation Scheme (SSS), the State Authorities Superannuation Scheme
(SASS) and the State Authorities Non Contributory Superannuation Scheme (SANCS). These schemes are all defined benefit
schemes; at least a component of the final benefit is derived from a multiple of member salary and years of membership. All the
schemes are closed to new members.
Employees who are not members of an associated scheme and were covered by the State Authorities Non-Contributory Scheme
(Basic Benefit) are automatically transferred into FSS. Employees who commenced employment from 8 December 1992 are
covered by the FSS.
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
Reconciliation of the Present Value of the Defined Benefit Obligation
SASS
Financial Year
to 30 June 08
$’000
SANCS
Financial Year
to 30 June 08
$’000
SSS
Financial Year
to 30 June 08
$’000
SASS
Financial Year
to 30 June 07
$’000
SANCS
Financial Year
to 30 June 07
$’000
SSS
Financial Year
to 30 June 07
$’000
5,335
810
6,018
4,806
794
6,708
Current Service Cost
232
45
26
220
48
39
Interest Cost
332
50
375
278
45
387
Contributions by Fund Participants
129
–
16
121
–
22
Actuarial (Gains)/Losses
(228)
32
(155)
133
(15)
(624)
Benefits Paid
(632)
(85)
(126)
(223)
(62)
(514)
Present Value of Partly Funded Defined
Benefit Obligations at Beginning of
the Year
Benefit Obligations at End of the Year
5,168
852
6,154
5,335
810
6,018
5,807
788
6,745
4,989
714
6,481
445
62
523
380
54
483
Actuarial Gains/(Losses)
(832)
(112)
(824)
365
42
252
Employer Contributions
300
67
11
175
40
21
129
–
16
121
–
22
(632)
(85)
(126)
(223)
(62)
(514)
5,807
788
6,745
Reconciliation of the Fair Value of Fund Assets
Fair Value of Fund Assets at Beginning
of the Year
Expected Return on Fund Assets
Benefits Paid
Fair Value of Fund Assets at End of
the Year
5,217
720
6,345
Reconciliation of the Assets and Liabilities Recognised in the Balance Sheet
Benefit Obligations at End of Year
5,168
852
6,155
5,335
810
6,018
Fair Value of Fund Assets at End of Year
(5,216)
(720)
(6,345)
(5,807)
(788)
(6,744)
22
(726)
Net Liability/(Asset) Recognised in
Balance Sheet at End of Year
(48)
132
(190)
(472)
232
45
26
220
Expense Recognised in Income Statement
Components Recognised in
Income Statement
Interest Cost
48
39
332
50
375
278
45
387
(Net of Expenses)
(445)
(62)
(523)
(380)
(54)
(483)
Actuarial Losses/(Gains) Recognised
in Year
604
145
669
(232)
(57)
(876)
Expense/(Income) Recognised
723
178
547
(114)
(18)
(933)
14. Provisions (continued)
88
(b) Superannuation (continued)
Fund Assets
The percentage invested in each asset class at the balance sheet date:
30 June 2008
30 June 2007
Australian Equities
31.6%
33.6%
Overseas Equities
25.4%
26.5%
Australian Fixed Interest Securities
7.4%
6.8%
Overseas Fixed Interest Securities
7.5%
6.4%
Property
11.0%
10.1%
Cash
6.1%
9.8%
Other
11.0%
6.8%
Fair Value of Fund Assets
All Fund assets are invested by STC at arm’s length through independent fund managers.
Expected Rate of Return on Assets
The expected return on assets assumption is determined by weighting the expected long term return for each asset class by the
target allocation of assets to each class. The returns used for each class are net of investment tax and investment fees.
Actual Return on Fund Assets
SASS
Financial Year
to 30 June 08
$’000
SANCS
Financial Year
to 30 June 08
$’000
(359)
(50)
SSS
Financial Year
to 30 June 08
$’000
SASS
Financial Year
to 30 June 07
$’000
SANCS
Financial Year
to 30 June 07
$’000
SSS
Financial Year
to 30 June 07
$’000
720
96
879
(446)
Valuation Method and Principal Actuarial Assumptions at the Balance Sheet Date
(a) Valuation Method
The Projected Unit Credit (PUC) valuation method was used to determine the present value of the defined benefit obligations and
the related current service costs. This method sees each period of service as giving rise to an additional unit of benefit entitlement
and measures each unit separately to build up the final obligation.
(b) Economic Assumptions
30 June 2008
30 June 2007
Salary Increase Rate (Excluding Promotional Increases)
3.5% pa
4.0% pa to June 2008 3.5% pa thereafter
Rate of CPI Increase
2.5% pa
2.5% pa
8.3%
7.60%
Expected Rate of Return on Assets Backing Current Pension Liabilities
Expected Rate of Return on Assets Backing Other Liabilities
Discount Rate
7.3%
7.60%
6.55% pa
6.4% pa
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
(c) Demographic Assumptions
The demographic assumptions at 30 June 2008 are those used in the 2006 triennial actuarial valuation. A selection of the most
financially significant assumptions is shown below:
(i) SASS Contributors – the number of SASS contributors expected in any one year (out of 10,000) members, at the ages
shown, to leave the fund as a result of death, disability, resignation, retirement and redundancy. Promotional salary increase
rates are also shown.
Number of members expected in any one year, out of 10,000 members at the age
shown, to leave the fund as a result of:
Age Nearest Birthday
Additional Promotional
Salary
Increase Rate
%
Death
Total & Permanent
Disability
Retirement
Resignation
Redundancy
30
4
8
–
280
150
2.9
40
6
10
–
150
150
1.8
50
11
30
–
112
150
0
60
30
–
1,400
–
150
0
30
2
2
–
372
150
2.9
40
3
6
–
175
150
1.8
50
7
28
–
144
150
0
60
18
–
1,500
–
150
0
Males
Females
(ii) SSS Contributors – the number of SSS contributors expected in any one year (out of 10,000 members), at the ages shown,
to leave the fund as a result of death, disability, resignation, retirement and preservation. Promotional salary increase rates
are also shown.
Number of members expected in any one year, out of 10,000 members at the age
shown, to leave the fund as a result of:
Death
Ill-health
Retirement
Retirement
(R60 for Females)
Cash Resignation
(R60 for Females)
Preservation
(R60 for Females)
Additional Promotional
Salary
Increase Rate
%
4
42
–
178
95
2.9
Males
30
40
6
54
–
80
140
1.8
50
11
144
–
20
50
0
60
30
–
6,500
–
–
0
30
2
6
–
204
124
2.9
40
3
21
–
72
105
1.8
50
7
103
–
30
90
0
60
18
–
6,300
–
–
0
Females
90
14. Provisions (continued)
(iii) SSS Commutation – the proportion of SSS members assumed to commute their pension to a lump sum in any one year.
Proportion of Pension Commuted
Age
Later of Commencement or Age 55
Retirement
0.15
Widow
Breakdown
0.2
Widower
0.25
0.25
55
65
0.538
0.58
75
0.4825
0.516
85
0.3928
0.3728
(iv) S
SS Pensioner Mortality – assumed mortality rates (in 2006/2007) for SSS pensioners (separately for normal retirement/
spouses and invalidity.
Retirement Pensioners and Spouses and Widows
Age
Invalidity Pensioners
Males
Females
Males
Females
55
0.0025
0.0014
0.0081
0.0066
65
0.007
0.0055
0.0112
0.0125
75
0.0194
0.0157
0.0505
0.0314
85
0.0945
0.0634
0.1134
0.1268
(v) SSS Pensioner Mortality Improvements – per annum assumed rates of mortality improvements for SSS pensioners.
Improvement Rates – (for Years Post 2006)
Age
Males
Females
55
0.0152
0.0113
65
0.0101
0.0065
75
0.0087
0.0068
85
0.0052
0.0080
Historical Information
SASS
Financial Year
to 30 June 08
$’000
SANCS
Financial Year
to 30 June 08
$’000
SSS
Financial Year
to 30 June 08
$’000
SSS
SASS
SANCS
Financial Year Financial Year Financial Year
to 30 June 07 to 30 June 07 to 30 June 07
$’000
$’000
$’000
Present Value of Defined Benefit Obligation
5,168
852
6,155
5,335
810
6,018
(5,216)
(720)
(6,345)
(5,807)
(788)
(6,745)
(Surplus)/Deficit In Fund
(48)
132
(190)
(472)
22
(726)
(228)
32
(155)
133
(15)
(624)
832
112
824
(365)
(42)
(252)
245
53
26
230
53
35
Experience Adjustments – Fund Liabilities
Experience Adjustments – Fund Assets
Expected Contributions
Expected Employer Contributions
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
Funding Arrangements for Employer Contributions
(a) Surplus/deficit
The following is a summary of the 30 June 2008 financial position of the Fund calculated in accordance with AAS 25 “Financial
Reporting by Superannuation Plans”:
Accrued Benefits
Net Market Value of Fund Assets
Net (surplus)/deficit
SASS
30-Jun-08
$’000
SANCS
30-Jun-08
$’000
SSS
30-Jun-08
$’000
SASS
30-Jun-07
$’000
SANCS
30-Jun-07
$’000
SSS
30-Jun-07
$’000
5,171
856
5,544
5,286
800
5,309
(5,216)
(720)
(6,345)
(5,807)
(788)
(6,745)
(801)
(521)
12
(1,436)
(46)
136
(b) Contribution Recommendations
Recommended Contribution Rates for the Board are:
Sass
Multiple of
Member
Contributions
Sancs
% Member Salary
Sss
Multiple of
Member
Contributions
Sass
Multiple of
Member
Contributions
Sancs
% Member Salary
Sss
Multiple of
Member
Contributions
1.9
2.5
1.6
1.9
2.5
1.6
(c) Funding Method
The method used to determine the employer contribution recommendations at the last actuarial review was the Aggregate
Funding method. The method adopted affects the timing of the cost to the employer.
Under the Aggregate Funding method, the employer contribution rate is determined so that sufficient assets will be available to
meet benefit payments to existing members, taking into account the current value of assets and future contributions.
(d) Economic Assumptions
The economic assumptions adopted for the last actuarial review of the Fund were:
Weighted-Average Assumptions
Expected Rate of Return on Fund Assets Backing Current Pension Liabilities
7.7% pa
Expected Rate of Return on Fund Assets Backing Other Liabilities
7.0% pa
Expected Salary Increase Rate
4.0% pa
Expected Rate of Cpi Increase
2.5% pa
Nature of Asset/Liability
If a surplus exists in the employer’s interest in the Fund, the employer may be able to take advantage of it in the form of a
reduction in the required contribution rate, depending on the advice of the Fund’s actuary.
Where a deficiency exists, the employer is responsible for any difference between the employer’s share of fund assets and the
defined benefit obligation.
92
15. Restriction on Revenue – Taronga Foundation
The Board received certain amounts into the Taronga Foundation for specific purposes. As required by the Australian Accounting
Standards, amounts have been recognised as revenues in the Income Statement which are yet to be spent in the manner
specified. Unexpended amounts totalling $636,000 ($705,000 in 2006/2007) have been included in Accumulated Funds as at
30 June 2008. The unexpended restricted funds are held as cash in separate bank accounts from the Board’s unrestricted funds.
Unexpended Amount
2008
$’000
2007
$’000
Capital Redevelopment Fundraising
191
191
Taronga Foundation Recurrent Projects
445
514
636
705
Taronga Foundation Program
16. Audit Fees
The Audit Office fees for auditing the Board’s financial report were $85,250 ($82,940 in 2006/2007). The auditors received no
other benefits.
17. Board Remuneration
Members of the Zoological Parks Board of New South Wales received reimbursement of expenses incurred in carrying out
their duties as members of the Board. In addition, Board remuneration of $221,148 ($190,823 in 2006/2007) was paid.
This amount included Honoraria of $33,228 ($33,228 in 2006/2007) paid to the Chairman of the Board and $187,920
($157,595 in 2006/2007) paid to the other members of the Board. The rates of remuneration were fixed and approved by the
Premier’s Department.
The Board honorarium remuneration brackets are displayed below together with the number of members in each bracket.
$10,000 – $19,999
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
9
9
9
9
$20,000 – $29,999
–
–
–
–
$30,000 – $39,999
1
1
1
1
10
10
10
10
18. Notes to the Cash Flow Statement
(a) Reconciliation of Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash at the end of the reporting period as shown in the statement of cash flows is reconciled to the related items in the
statement of financial position as follows:
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
15,307
15,307
6,687
6,687
15,307
15,307
6,687
6,687
For the purposes of the statement of cash flows, the Board considers cash to include cash on hand, in banks and investments in
TCorp on 24 hour call.
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
(b) Reconciliation of Operating Surplus to Net Cash from Operating Activities:
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
16,303
16,303
16,973
16,973
9,437
9,437
10,258
10,258
Operating Surplus
(Profit) on Sale of Assets
(78)
Amounts Capitalised in Prior Years Transferred to Profit and Loss
(78)
1,043
1,043
2007
Parent
$’000
(13)
(13)
4
4
Change in Assets and Liabilities:
(Increase)/Decrease in GST Receivable
106
106
28
28
(604)
(604)
2,090
2,090
2
2
723
723
(Increase)/Decrease in Prepayments
(697)
(697)
17
17
Increase/(Decrease) in Employee Entitlements
(271)
(271)
675
675
(Increase)/Decrease in Prepaid Superannuation
959
959
(1,016)
(1,016)
Increase/(Decrease) in Unfunded Superannuation
110
110
(285)
(285)
Movement in Unamortised Premium on Loans
(13)
(13)
(49)
(49)
(Increase)/Decrease in Accounts Receivable
(Increase)/Decrease in Inventories
Increase/(Decrease) in Creditors and Accruals
Net Cash Provided From Operating Activities
27,020
27,020
(32)
(32)
87
87
28,737
28,737
(c) The Board has not entered into any non-cash financing or investing activities.
(d) Financing Facilities
An unsecured bank overdraft facility of $1.5 million was available to the Board and unused at 30 June 2008. A Treasury approved
facility of $37.8m is available to the Board to fund capital development, of which $1,994,000in drawn downs have been made in
2007/2008 ($9,279,140 in 2007).
19. Reconciliation of Changes in Equity
Accumulated Funds
Asset Revaluation Reserve
Total Equity
2008
$’000
2007
$’000
2008
$’000
2007
$’000
2008
$’000
2007
$’000
117,899
100,926
100,242
91,650
218,141
192,576
16,303
16,973
–
–
16,303
16,973
Land and Buildings
–
–
5,671
7,539
5,671
7,539
Infrastructure
–
–
713
1,053
714
1,053
16,303
16,973
6,384
8,592
22,688
25,565
134,202
117,899
106,627
100,242
240,829
218,141
Balance at the Beginning of the Financial Year
Net Increase in Asset Revaluation Reserve for:
Total
Balance at the End of the Financial Year
94
20. Commitments
(a) Capital Expenditure Commitments
The estimated aggregate amount of contracts for capital expenditure not provided for in the accounts is $15,181,326
($3,329,121 in 2007) inclusive of GST of $1,380,121. These commitments relate to expenditure that will be incurred within the
following twelve months.
(b) Operational Expenditure Commitments
The estimated aggregate amount of contracts for operating expenditure resulting from unfulfilled purchase orders is $1,999,734
inclusive of GST of $181,794 ($2,958,099 in 2007). These commitments relate to goods that will be received within the following
twelve months. The Board has no operational expenditure commitments extending beyond twelve months.
(c) Operating Lease Commitments
Future non-cancellable operating lease rentals not provided for and payable:
2008
Consolidated
$’000
2008
Parent
$’000
2007
Consolidated
$’000
2007
Parent
$’000
88
88
633
633
1493
1493
723
723
60
60
–
–
1,641
1,641
1,356
1,356
Not later than one year
Later than one year and not later than five years
Later than five years
Total including GST
The major operating leases relate to motor vehicles and computer equipment.
(d) GST input tax credit claimable on commitments amounts to $1,711,188
21. Contingent Liabilities
The Board is not aware of any Contingent Liabilities at 30 June 2008 (nil in 2006/2007).
22. Subsequent Events
There were no subsequent events occurring after balance date.
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
23. Segmental Reporting
2008
Taronga
Foundation
$’000
Actual
2008
Taronga &
Corporate
Services
$’000
Actual
2008
Western
Plains
$’000
Actual
2008
Total
$’000
Actual
2007
Taronga
Foundation
$’000
Actual
2007
Taronga &
Corporate
Services
$’000
Actual
2007
Western
Plains
$’000
Actual
2007
Total
$’000
Actual
347
22,518
3,488
26,353
368
21,267
3,126
24,761
–
6,097
2,668
8,765
–
6,024
2,649
8,673
2,636
–
–
2,636
2,379
–
–
2,379
Revenue
Admissions
Government Grants
–
33,448
2,706
36,154
–
31,642
3,333
34,975
Other Income
4,620
4,458
3,001
12,078
4,235
3,789
2,851
10,875
Total Revenue
7,603
66,521
11,862
85,986
6,982
62,722
11,959
81,663
825
24,646
7,086
32,556
655
23,370
6,494
30,519
69
3,233
713
4,016
45
732
436
1,213
–
1,711
1,150
2,862
–
1,716
1,118
2,834
Expenditure
Employee Expenses
Superannuation
599
1,412
235
2,246
515
1,710
202
2,427
Depreciation
Marketing Expenses
–
7,831
1,606
9,437
–
8,591
1,667
10,258
Insurance
–
505
111
615
–
582
124
706
59
4,139
768
4,966
17
3,777
692
4,486
Borrowing Costs
–
2,322
237
2,559
–
2,159
67
2,226
Other Expenses
919
7,363
2,144
10,426
1,038
6,906
2,077
10,021
Total Expenditure
2,471
53,163
14,050
69,683
2,270
49,543
12,877
64,690
Surplus/(Deficit) for the Year
5,132
13,358
(2,187)
16,303
4,712
13,179
636
262,414
31,666
294,716
705
238,534
31,879
271,118
–
51,203
2,684
53,887
–
50,726
2,251
52,977
Maintenance
Total Assets
Total Liabilities
End of Audited Financial Report
96
(918)
16,973
Operating Budget Performance
Actual
2007/08
Budget
2007/08
Budget
2008/09
Operating Income
Admissions
26,353
25,660
26,551
8,765
9,755
10,180
2,636
3,110
3,070
Government Grants
36,154
35,639
32,362
Other Income
12,078
9,385
12,451
Total Revenue
85,986
83,549
84,614
32,556
32,188
34,516
Expenditure
Employee Expenses
Superannuation
4,016
2,860
3,033
2,862
3,185
3,323
Marketing Expenses
2,246
2,281
2,087
9,437
10,276
13,364
615
732
701
Insurance
Maintenance
4,966
4,871
5,160
Finance Costs
2,559
3,376
3,622
Other Expenses
10,426
9,878
10,021
Total Operating Expenditure
69,683
69,647
75,827
Operating Surplus/(Deficit)
16,303
13,902
8,787
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Aged Payables Analysis by Quarter
Current
31–60 Days
61–90 Days
91+ Days
Total
September Quarter
1,131,884
39,231
–
13,983
1,185,098
December Quarter
1,407,775
78,999
53,296
26,904
1,566,974
March Quarter
1,311,866
93,249
11,235
62,063
1,478,413
June Quarter
2,689,859
53,828
41,137
1,653
2,786,477
Accounts paid on time by quarter
Target
%
Actual
%
Total Paid
$
Paid on Time
$
September Quarter
100
89
19,668,861
18,512,106
December Quarter
100
90
16,129,766
15,360,490
March Quarter
100
80
14,787,876
13,632,394
June Quarter
100
80
29,164,588
27,819,148
Average days taken to process accounts in September Quarter
26
Average days taken to process accounts in December Quarter
31
Average days taken to process accounts in March Quarter
33
Average days taken to process accounts in June Quarter
30
Average days taken to process accounts in 2008
30
No interest has been paid on overdue accounts in the 2007/08 year.
Reasons for Accounts not being Paid on Time
The Zoological Parks Board of NSW aims to meet vendor payment terms. Measurement of accounts being paid on time is based
on 30 days from invoice date. In some cases vendors request payment 30 days from the end of the month after the invoice is
raised. There are also certain occasions when accounts are in dispute, necessitating withholding of payment until resolution of
that dispute. During 2008, payment of a number of invoices from one particular supplier were withheld, pending resolution of
service issues and debt owed to the ZPB by that entity. This issue was resolved by June 2008 and trade terms with this supplier
had been brought back to 30 days by 30 June 2008.
Initiatives Implemented to Improve Payment Performance
Investment Performance
The Board invests surplus funds in the NSW Treasury Corporation Hour-Glass Investment Cash Facility. For the year ended
30 June 2007 the cash facility had an annual compound rate of return of 6.6%
Liability Management Performance
In accordance with guidelines on reporting of liability management performance issued by the NSW Treasury, authorities with debt
of less than $50 million are not required to report on liability management. The Board’s level of debt is within this category.
Land Disposal
Pursuant to Clause 4 (1) of the Annual Reports (Statutory Bodies) Regulation 1985, the Zoological Parks Board of NSW declares
that no property was disposed of during the year ended 30 June 2008.
98
Major Asset Maintenance Projects with Expenditure in 2007/08
Project
Expenditure
2007/08
Costs to Complete
Estimated/Actual
Completion Date
Sky Safari 22,500 hour Grand Maintenance
500,000
450,000
2008–09
PA & Soundscape Maintenance/Upgrade
120,000
300,000
2009–10
Master Plan Projects Maintenance
320,000
0
On-going
Routine Maintenance Contracts
265,000
0
On-going
Taronga Centre Maintenance
171,000
0
On-going
Animal Welfare Maintenance
150,000
0
On-going
Gorilla slides Upgrade
50,000
30,000
2008–09
Rainforest Aviary Metalwork Repairs
25,000
85,000
2008–09
Termite Inspections/Management
43,000
0
On-going
Heritage Maintenance
140,000
0
On-going
TWPZ White Rhino Fencing
184,000
0
Completed
TWPZ Routine Maintenance
135,000
0
On-going
62,000
0
On-going
TWPZ Animal Welfare Maintenance
Capital Development Projects with Expenditure in 2007/08
Project
Expenditure
2007/08
Costs to Complete
Estimated/Actual
Completion Date
Male Elephant Holding Facility
2,991,141
3,236,280
2008–09
Car Park Construction & Outer Plaza
4,663,903
14,307,651
2008–09
Great Southern Oceans Precinct
5,144,826
494,898
2008–09
Utilities/Support Services
899,742
0
On-going
WPZ Visitor Entry and Admission Precinct
329,453
6,894,904
2009–10
Taronga Zoo Masterplanning
856,469
0
On-going
Lower Entrance Building
1,470,330
0
2007–08
Other Capital Expenditure
1,613,709
0
2007–08
43,000
0
On-going
Heritage Maintenance
140,000
0
On-going
TWPZ White Rhino Fencing
184,000
0
Completed
TWPZ Routine Maintenance
135,000
0
On-going
62,000
0
On-going
Termite Inspections/Management
TWPZ Animal Welfare Maintenance
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
Zoological Parks Board Division
for the year ended 30 June, 2008
Statement
Pursuant to section 41B of the Public Finance and Audit Act 1983 and in accordance with a resolution of the Zoological Parks
Board of New South Wales, we being members of the Board state that:
(a)In our opinion the financial statements and notes thereon exhibit a true and fair view of the financial position and transactions
of the Zoological Parks Board Division for the year ended June 30 2008;
(b) the financial report has been prepared in accordance with authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting
Standards Board which include Australian Equivalents to International Accounting Standards and the requirements of the
Public Finance and Audit Act 1983 and Regulation 2005; and
(c) We are not aware of any circumstances which would render any particulars included in the financial statements to be
misleading or inaccurate.
Chairman of the Board
100
Member of the Board
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
102
Income Statement
Notes
2008
$’000
2007
$’000
Personnel Services
36,572
31,732
Total Revenue
36,572
31,732
32,556
30,519
4,016
1,213
36,572
31,732
–
–
Revenue
Expenditure
Employee Benefits
Superannuation
Total Expenditure
SURPLUS FOR THE YEAR
2
The accompanying notes form part of these Financial Statements
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
Balance Sheet
as at 30 June 2008
Notes
2008
$’000
2007
$’000
3
7,522
6,723
7,522
6,723
Prepaid Superannuation
238
1,198
Total Non-Current Assets
238
1,198
7,760
7,921
Current Assets
Receivables
Total Current Assets
Non-Current Assets
Total Assets
Current Liabilities
Payables
4
812
714
Provisions
5
6,642
6,825
7,454
7,539
306
382
306
382
7,760
7,921
–
–
–
–
–
–
Provisions
5
Total Liabilities
Net Assets
Equity
Accumulated Funds
Total Equity
104
19
Cash Flow Statement
Notes
2008
$’000
2007
$’000
36,732
31,364
36,732
31,364
(36,732)
(31,364)
(36,732)
(31,364)
CASH FLOWS PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Receipts from Customers and Sponsors
Payments to Suppliers and Employees
Net Cash Flows Provided by Operating Activities
–
–
Net Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents
–
–
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of the Financial Year
–
–
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of the Financial Year
–
–
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
Statement of Recognised Income and Expense
Notes
2008
$’000
2007
$’000
Net Increase in Property, Plant and Equipment Asset Revaluation Reserve
–
–
TOTAL INCOME AND EXPENSE RECOGNISED DIRECTLY IN EQUITY
–
–
–
–
TOTAL INCOME AND EXPENSE RECOGNISED FOR THE YEAR
–
–
106
1. Summary Of Significant Accounting
Policies
(a) Reporting Entity
The Zoological Parks Board Division is a Division of the
Government Service established pursuant to Part 2 of
Schedule 1 to the Public Sector Employment and Management
Act 2002. It is a not-for-profit entity as profit is not its principal
objective. It is consolidated as part of the NSW Total State
Sector Accounts. It is domiciled in Australia and its principal
office is at Taronga Zoo, Bradley’s Head Road Mosman
NSW 2088.
The Zoological Parks Board Division’s objective is to provide
personnel services to Zoological Parks Board of NSW.
The Zoological Parks Board Division commenced operations
on 17 March 2006 when it assumed responsibility for the
employees and employee-related liabilities of the Zoological
Parks Board of NSW. The assumed liabilities were recognised
on 17 March 2006 together with an offsetting receivable
representing the related funding due from the former employer.
The financial report was authorised for issue by the Chairman
of the Zoological Parks Board of NSW on 16 October 2008.
(b)Basis of Preparation
The financial report is a general purpose financial report
which has been prepared in accordance with:
ρρ applicable Australian Accounting Standards which
include Australian Equivalents to International
Accounting Standards (AEIFRS),
ρρ the requirements of the Public Finance and
Audit Act 1983 and Regulation 2005, and
ρρ specific directions issued by the Treasurer.
The financial report has been prepared on an historical
cost basis, except for land and buildings, plant and equipment
and infrastructure systems, which are recorded at fair value.
Judgements, key assumptions and estimations
management has made are disclosed in the relevant notes to
the financial report.
All amounts are rounded to the nearest one thousand dollars
and are expressed in Australian currency.
(c) Revenue Recognition
Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration
received or receivable. Revenue from the rendering of
personnel services is recognised when the service is provided
and only to the extent that the associated recoverable
expenses are recognised.
(d) Trade and Other Receivables
A receivable is recognised when it is probable that the future
cash inflows associated with it will be realised and it has a
value that can be measured reliably. It is derecognised when
the contractual or other rights to future cash flows from it
expire or are transferred.
A receivable is measured initially at fair value and subsequently
at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method,
less any allowance for doubtful debts. A short-term receivable
with no stated interest rate is measured at the original
invoice amount where the effect of discounting is immaterial.
An invoiced receivable is due for settlement within thirty days
of invoicing.
If there is objective evidence at year end that a receivable
may not be collectable, its carrying amount is reduced by
means of an allowance for doubtful debts and the resulting
loss is recognised in the income statement. Receivables
are monitored during the year and bad debts are written
off against the allowance when they are determined to be
irrecoverable. Any other loss or gain arising when a receivable
is derecognised is also recognised in the income statement.
(e) Payables
Payables include accrued wages, salaries, and related on
costs (such as payroll tax, fringe benefits tax and workers’
compensation insurance) where there is certainty as to the
amount and timing of settlement.
A payable is recognised when a present obligation arises
under a contract or otherwise. It is derecognised when the
obligation expires or is discharged, cancelled or substituted.
A short-term payable with no stated interest rate is measured
at historical cost if the effect of discounting is immaterial.
(f) Employee Benefits
Provisions are made for liabilities of uncertain amount or
uncertain timing of settlement.
Employee benefit provisions represent expected amounts
payable in the future in respect of unused entitlements
accumulated as at the reporting date. Liabilities associated
with, but that are not employee benefits (such as payroll tax),
are recognised separately. Long term annual leave that is not
expected to be taken within twelve months is measured at
present value in accordance with AASB19 Employee Benefits.
Market yields on Government bonds of 6.45% are used to
discount long term annual leave.
Superannuation and leave liabilities are recognised as
expenses and provisions when the obligations arise, which is
usually through the rendering of service by employees.
All accrued annual leave is treated as a current liability with
the expectation that annual leave will be taken when due.
The on-costs i.e. payroll tax, workers’ compensation insurance
premiums and superannuation which are consequential to
employment have been taken into account in calculating
annual leave provisions.
Superannuation and long service leave provisions are
measured at the present value of the estimated future
payments. Superannuation provisions are actuarially assessed
prior to each reporting date.
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
All other employee benefit liabilities (i.e. benefits falling due
wholly within twelve months after reporting date) are assessed
by management and are measured at the undiscounted
amount of the estimated future payments.
The amount recognised for superannuation and long service
leave provisions is the net total of the present value of the
defined benefit obligation at the reporting date, minus the
fair value at that date of any plan assets out of which the
obligations are to be settled directly.
The amount recognised in the income statement for
superannuation and long service leave is the net total of current
service cost, interest cost, the expected return on any plan
assets and actuarial gains and losses. Actuarial gains or losses
are recognised as income or expense in the year they occur.
The actuarial assessment of superannuation provisions uses
the Projected Unit Credit Method and reflects estimated future
salary increases and the benefits set out in the terms of the
plan. The liabilities are discounted using the market yield rate
on government bonds of similar maturity to those obligations.
Actuarial assumptions are based on market expectations for
the period over which the obligations are to be settled.
(g)Accounting Standards Issued but not
yet Effective
Standards Board but are not yet operative. These have not
been early adopted by the Board.
The following is a list of those standards that may have an
impact on the financial report:
Standards Board but are note yet operative. These have not
been early adopted by the Board.
The following is a list of those standards that will have an
impact on the financial report of the entity in the period of
initial application:
ρρ AASB 8 Operating Segments requires segment reporting
to be disclosed based on the internal reports provided
to the Board. This Standard becomes mandatory for the
Dvision’s 2010 Financial statements.
ρρ Revised AASB 101 Mandatory for the Division’s 2010
ρρ Revised AASB 123 Mandatory for the Division’s 2010
108
(h) Credit Risk
Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the Division if
counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its
contractual obligations and arises principally from the
Group’s receivables. The maximum exposure to credit risk is
represented by the carrying amount of the financial assets
(net of any allowance for impairment).
Credit risk arises from the financial assets of the Division
which comprise receivables and prepayments. No collateral is
held by the Board.
The Board has not granted any financial guarantees.
(i) Receivables – Trade Debtors
All trade debtors are recognised as amounts receivable
at balance date. 100% of the balance of trade and other
receivables is owed by the Division’s Parent Entity, ZPB of NSW.
Quantitative disclosures in relation to the ageing and
demographics of debtors are made in Note 6 to these accounts.
(j) Liquidity risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Division will not be able to
meet its financial obligations as and when they fall due. The
Division’s approach to managing liquidity is to ensure, as far as
possible, that it will have sufficient liquidity to meet its liabilities
when they fall due under both normal and stressed conditions.
The Division continuously manages risk through monitoring
future cash flows and maturities planning to ensure adequate
holding of high quality liquid assets. During the current and
prior years, there were no defaults or breaches in any loans
payable. No assets have been pledged as collateral.
Liabilities are recognised for amounts due to be paid in the
future for goods or services received, whether or not invoiced.
An analysis of the maturity profile of the Division’s financial
liabilities is in note 6 of the accounts.
(k) Market Risk
Market risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows
of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in
market prices.
The Division has no exposure to foreign currency risk and does
not enter into commodity contracts.
The Division’s financial instruments do not earn/incur interest.
2.Employee Benefits
2008
$’000
2007
$’000
27,908
26,704
410
904
Payroll Tax
2,561
1,602
1,274
1,029
403
280
32,556
30,519
6,948
7,207
Salaries & Wages
Long Service Leave
Other
3.Receivables
Parent Entity – ZPB of NSW
Total Provisions Receivable
Add Accrued Salaries, Wages and On Costs Receivable
Less Prepaid Superannuation
813
(239)
714
(1,198)
7,522
6,723
812
714
Annual Leave
2,634
2,896
Long Service Leave
4,008
3,929
Total Current
6,642
6,825
Long Service Leave
174
360
Superannuation
132
22
Total Non-Current
306
382
6,948
7,207
4.Payables
Accrued Salaries, Wages and On Costs
5.Provisions
Current
Non-Current
Total Employee Related Provisions
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
5.Provisions (continued)
(a) Provisions for Annual and Long Service Leave
In 2007/08, on-costs of $1,356,865 included components for payroll tax calculated at 6.0%, workers compensation calculated at
5.0% and superannuation calculated at 9.0% of the relevant leave liability ($1,383,957 in 2006/2007).
The leave liabilities that are expected to be settled within twelve months and outside twelve months (discounted) are shown below.
Annual Leave
$’000
Long Service Leave
$’000
Total
$’000
Expected to be settled within twelve months
1,509
369
1,878
Expected to be settled outside twelve months
1,125
3,639
4,764
Total
2,634
4,008
6,642
(b) Superannuation
All unfunded superannuation liabilities at 30 June 2008
have been included as non-current liabilities in the Balance
Sheet and have been charged to superannuation expense
in the Income Statement. ll surplus balances in a fund at 30
June 2008 have been included as non-current assets in the
Balance Sheet and have been credited to superannuation
expense in the Income Statement.
All employees are entitled to superannuation benefits
under one of the superannuation schemes, namely First
State Superannuation Scheme (FSS), State Authorities
Non-Contributory Superannuation (SANCS) Scheme, State
Authorities Superannuation Scheme (SASS), and State
Superannuation Scheme (SSF). All funds are administered
by the Superannuation Administration Corporation trading as
Pillar Administration. Employees also have the choice of using
other superannuation schemes and some have opted to do so.
It is the Division’s policy to provide for deferred employer
liabilities. For the financial year ended 30 June 2008
the calculation of this liability was based on an actuarial
assessment completed by the Fund’s actuary for the defined
benefit scheme administered by the Pillar Administration.
Actuarial gains and losses are recognised in profit or loss in
the year they occur.
110
The superannuation schemes include the State
Superannuation Scheme (SSS), the State Authorities
Superannuation Scheme (SASS) and the State Authorities
Non Contributory Superannuation Scheme (SANCS). These
schemes are all defined benefit schemes; at least a component
of the final benefit is derived from a multiple of member
salary and years of membership. All the schemes are closed
to new members. Employees who are not members of an
associated scheme and were covered by the State Authorities
Non-Contributory Scheme (Basic Benefit) are automatically
transferred into FSS.
Reconciliation of the Present Value of the Defined Benefit Obligation
SSS
SSS
SASS
SANCS
SASS
SANCS
Financial Year Financial Year Financial Year Financial Year Financial Year Financial Year
to 30 June 08 to 30 June 08 to 30 June 08 to 30 June 07 to 30 June 07 to 30 June 07
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
Benefit Obligations at Beginning of the Year
5,335
810
6,018
4,806
794
6,708
232
45
26
220
48
39
Interest Cost
332
50
375
278
45
387
129
16
121
–
22
Actuarial (Gains)/Losses
(228)
32
(155)
133
(15)
(624)
Benefits Paid
(632)
(85)
(126)
(223)
(62)
(514)
Benefit Obligations at End of the Year
5,168
852
6,154
5,335
810
6,018
Reconciliation of the Fair Value of Fund Assets
SSS
SSS
SASS
SANCS
SASS
SANCS
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
Fair Value of Fund Assets at Beginning of
the Year
5,807
788
6,745
4,989
714
6,481
445
62
523
380
54
483
Actuarial Gains/(Losses)
(832)
(112)
(824)
365
42
252
Employer Contributions
300
67
11
175
40
21
129
–
16
121
–
22
(632)
(85)
(126)
(223)
(62)
(514)
5,807
788
6,745
Benefits Paid
Fair Value of Fund Assets at End of the Year
5,217
720
6,345
Reconciliation of the Assets and Liabilities Recognised in the Balance Sheet
Benefit Obligations at End of Year
5,168
852
6,155
5,335
810
6,018
Fair Value of Fund Assets at End of Year
(5,216)
(720)
(6,345)
(5,807)
(788)
(6,744)
(48)
132
(190)
(472)
Net Liability/(Asset) Recognised in Balance
Sheet at End of Year
22
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Board Australia of NSW Annual Report 2008 (726)
111
Financial Report
Expense Recognised in Income Statement
Components Recognised in Income Statement
232
45
26
220
48
39
Interest Cost
332
50
375
278
45
387
(Net of Expenses)
(445)
(62)
(523)
(380)
(54)
(483)
Actuarial Losses/(Gains) Recognised in Year
604
145
669
(232)
(57)
(876)
Expense/(Income) Recognised
723
178
547
(114)
(18)
(933)
Fund Assets
The percentage invested in each asset class at the balance sheet date:
30 June 08
30 June 07
Australian Equities
31.6%
33.6%
Overseas Equities
25.4%
26.5%
Australian Fixed Interest Securities
7.4%
6.8%
Overseas Fixed Interest Securities
7.5%
6.4%
11.0%
10.1%
Cash
6.1%
9.8%
Other
11.0%
6.8%
Property
All Fund assets are invested by STC at arm’s length through independent fund managers.
Expected Rate of Return on Assets
The expected return on assets assumption is determined by weighting the expected long-term return for each asset class by the
target allocation of assets to each class. The returns used for each class are net of investment tax and investment fees.
SSS
SSS
SASS
SANCS
SASS
SANCS
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
112
(359)
(50)
(446)
720
96
879
Valuation Method and Principal Actuarial Assumptions at the Balance Sheet Date
a)Valuation Method
The Projected Unit Credit (PUC) valuation method was used to determine the present value of the defined benefit obligations and
the related current service costs. This method sees each period of service as giving rise to an additional unit of benefit entitlement
and measures each unit separately to build up the final obligation.
b)Economic Assumptions
30 June 08
30 June 07
Salary Increase Rate (Excluding Promotional Increases)
3.5% pa
4.0% pa to June 2008
3.5% pa thereafter
Rate of Cpi Increase
2.5% pa
2.5% pa
Expected Rate of Return on Assets Backing Current Pension Liabilities
8.3%
7.6%
Expected Rate of Return on Assets Backing Other Liabilities
7.3%
7.6%
6.55% pa
6.4% pa
Discount Rate
c) Demographic Assumptions
The demographic assumptions at 30 June 2008 are those used in the 2006 triennial actuarial valuation. A selection of the most
financially significant assumptions is shown below:
(i) SASS Contributors – the number of SASS contributors expected in any one year (out of 10,000) members, at the ages
shown, to leave the fund as a result of death, disability, resignation, retirement and redundancy. Promotional salary increase
rates are also shown.
Number of members expected in any one year, out of 10,000 members at the age shown,
to leave the fund as a result of:
Additional
Promotional Salary
Increase Rate
%
Death
Total & Permanent
Disability
Retirement
Resignation
Redundancy
4
8
–
280
150
2.9
Males
30
40
6
10
–
150
150
1.8
50
11
30
–
112
150
0
60
30
–
1,400
–
150
0
30
2
2
–
372
150
2.9
40
3
6
–
175
150
1.8
50
7
28
–
144
150
0
60
18
–
1,500
–
150
0
Females
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
(ii) SSS Contributors – the number of SSS contributors expected in any one year (out of 10,000 members), at the ages shown,
to leave the fund as a result of death, disability, resignation, retirement and preservation. Promotional salary increase rates
are also shown.
Number of members expected in any one year, out of 10,000 members at the age shown,
to leave the fund as a result of:
Preservation
(R60 for Females)
Additional
Promotional Salary
Increase Rate
%
178
95
2.9
80
140
1.8
–
20
50
0
–
6,500
–
–
0
6
–
204
124
2.9
Death
Ill-health
Retirement
Retirement
(R60 for Females)
Cash Resignation
(R60 for Females)
30
4
42
–
40
6
54
–
50
11
144
60
30
2
Males
Females
30
40
3
21
–
72
105
1.8
50
7
103
–
30
90
0
60
18
–
6,300
–
–
0
(iii) SSS Commutation – the proportion of SSS members assumed to commute their pension to a lump sum in any one year.
Proportion of Pension Commuted
Age
Later of Commencement or Age 55
Retirement
0.15
Widow
Breakdown
0.2
Widower
55
0.25
0.25
65
0.538
0.58
75
0.4825
0.516
85
0.3928
0.3728
114
(iv) S
SS Pensioner Mortality – assumed mortality rates (in 2006/2007) for SSS pensioners (separately for normal retirement/
spouses and invalidity).
Retirement Pensioners and
Spouses and Widows
Age
Males
Invalidity Pensioners
Females
Males
Females
55
0.0025
0.0014
0.0081
0.0066
65
0.007
0.0055
0.0112
0.0125
75
0.0194
0.0157
0.0505
0.0314
85
0.0945
0.0634
0.1134
0.1268
(v) SSS Pensioner Mortality Improvements – per annum assumed rates of mortality improvements for SSS pensioners.
Improvement Rates – (for Years Post 2006)
Age
Males
Females
55
0.0152
0.0113
65
0.0101
0.0065
75
0.0087
0.0068
85
0.0052
0.008
Historical Information
SSS
SSS
SASS
SANCS
SASS
SANCS
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
$’000
Present Value of Defined Benefit Obligation
5,168
852
6,155
5,335
810
6,018
(5,216)
(720)
(6,345)
(5,807)
(788)
(6,745)
132
(190)
(472)
(228)
32
(155)
133
(15)
(624)
832
112
824
(365)
(42)
(252)
245
53
26
230
53
35
(Surplus)/Deficit in Fund
Experience Adjustments – Fund Liabilities
Experience Adjustments – Fund Assets
(48)
22
(726)
Expected Contributions
Expected Employer Contributions
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
5. Provisions (continued) Funding Arrangements for Employer Contributions
(a) Surplus/Deficit
The following is a summary of the 30 June 2008 financial position of the Fund calculated in accordance with AAS 25 “Financial
Reporting by Superannuation Plans”:
SASS
30 June 08
$’000
SANCS
30 June 08
$’000
SSS
30 June 08
$’000
SASS
30 June 07
$’000
SANCS
30 June 07
$’000
SSS
30 June 07
$’000
5,171
856
5,544
5,286
800
5,309
(5,216)
(720)
(6,345)
(5,807)
(788)
(6,745)
(801)
(521)
12
(1,436)
Accrued Benefits
Net Market Value of Fund Assets
Net (Surplus)/Deficit
(46)
136
(b) Contribution Recommendations
Recommended Contribution Rates for the Board are:
SASS
Multiple of
Member
Contributions
SANCS
%
Member
Salary
SSS
Multiple of
Member
Contributions
SASS
Multiple of
Member
Contributions
SANCS
%
Member
Salary
SSS
Multiple of
Member
Contributions
1.9
2.5
1.6
1.9
2.5
1.6
(c) Funding Method
The method used to determine the employer contribution recommendations at the last actuarial review was the Aggregate
Funding method. The method adopted affects the timing of the cost to the employer.
Under the Aggregate Funding method, the employer contribution rate is determined so that sufficient assets will be available to
meet benefit payments to existing members, taking into account the current value of assets and future contributions.
(d) Economic Assumptions
The economic assumptions adopted for the last actuarial review of the Fund were:
Weighted-Average Assumptions
Expected Rate of Return on Fund Assets Backing Current Pension Liabilities
7.7% pa
Expected Rate of Return on Fund Assets Backing Other Liabilities
7.0% pa
Expected Salary Increase Rate
4.0% pa
Expected Rate of CPI Increase
2.5% pa
Nature of Asset/Liability
If a surplus exists in the employer’s interest in the Fund, the employer may be able to take advantage of it in the form of a
reduction in the required contribution rate, depending on the advice of the Fund’s actuary.
Where a deficiency exists, the employer is responsible for any difference between the employer’s share of fund assets and the
defined benefit obligation.
116
6. Financial Instruments
Financial Instruments give rise to positions that are a financial asset either of the Board or its counterparty and a financial liability
(or equity instrument) of the other party. For the Board these include cash, receivables, investments and payables.
In accordance with AASB 132 Financial Instruments – presentation information is disclosed below in respect of the credit risk and
interest rate risk of financial instruments. All such amounts are carried in the accounts at net fair value unless otherwise stated.
Financial instruments are carried at (amortised) cost, with the exception of TCorp Hour Glass Facilities, which are carried at fair
value. However, the fair value of the other classes of financial instruments approximates their carrying value.
The Board does not enter into or trade financial instruments for speculative purposes. The Board does not use financial derivatives.
Category
2008
$’000
2007
$’000
Loans and Receivables at Amortised Cost
7,522
6,723
812
714
Financial Assets
Class:
Trade and Other Receivables
Class:
Payables
Financial Liabilities Measured at Amortised Cost
(a) Interest Rate Risk
Financial Instrument
The Division’s financial instruments do not earn/incur interest.
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Financial Report
(b) Credit Risk
The Carrying amount of the Board’s financial assets represents the maximum credit exposure. The Board’s maximum exposure to
credit risk at reporting date was
Total Trade Receivables
2008
$’000
2007
$’000
7,522
6,723
The total balance of the Division’s receivables at balance date is owed by the Parent Company, Zoological Parks Board.
The Division does not extend credit to entities other than the Parent Company.
The Board does not hold any collateral as security over receivables.
Impairment as at 30 June 2008
Not Past Due
2008
$’000
2007
$’000
7,522
6,723
There is no provision for impairment of receivables at balance date.
The following are the contractual maturities of financial liabilities.
30 June 2008
Carrying Amount
Contractual Cash Flows
< 6 months
Non-Derivative Financial Liabilities
30 June 2007
812
Carrying Amount
(812)
Contractual Cash Flows
(812)
< 6 months
Non-Derivative Financial Liabilities
End of Audited Financial Report
118
714
(714)
(714)
Appendices
Functions of the
Privacy Management 120
120
Australiasian Species
Management Plan Participation
121
Animal Transactions
Relating to Species Management Programs
122
Australiasian Species
Management Programs
122
Research Projects and Conservation Programs
123
Post-Moretem and Clinical
Samples supplied for research and teaching purposes
Scientific Advisors
126
127
Paid consultancies
undertaken by the board
Lectures and presentations
by staff
Publications
Staff representation on external committiees
134
Senior Staff
136
138
140
141
142
143
Corporate Sponsor List
144
Overseas trips by staff
EEO target groups
Senior Executive Service
Performance Statement
(NSW) Inc 145
Employees by Program
Area
148
128
Freedom of Information
148
128
VIP Visits to Taronga Zoo (1 July 2007–30
June 2008)
149
Ethnic Affairs Priorities
Statement 2007–08
Strategies for 2007–08
150
152
152
Llist of all staff of the
Taronga Conservation
Society Australia
153
Action Plan for Women
Appendices
Appendix 1
(4)The Minister may request the Board to make
recommendations or reports to the Minister with
respect to matters connected with the Board’s powers,
authorities, duties and functions or the administration
of this Act and the Board is to comply with any
such request.
(5)The Board may exercise and perform such other
powers, authorities, duties and functions as may be
conferred or imposed on the Board or under this or
any other Act.
Functions of the Taronga Conservation
Society Australia
The main functions of the Board are specified in Section 15
of the Zoological Parks Board Act, 1973, (the trading entity of
the Taronga Conservation Society Australia) which provides
as follows:
15 (1) The Board may establish, maintain and control the
TCSA for the following purposes:
a)carrying out research and breeding programs for
the preservation of endangered species;
b)carrying out research programs for the
conservation and management of other species;
c)conducting public education and awareness
programs about species conservation and
management; and
d)displaying animals for educational, cultural and
recreational purposes.
(2)The Board may also maintain and control:
a)the zoological park established before the
commencement of the Act on the land described
in Schedules 3 and 4 under the name ‘Taronga
Zoological Park’; and
b)Other zoological parks on land or premises vested
in or held by the Board, whether or not those parks
were established by the Board, for the purposes
referred to in this section.
(3)The Board:
a)may cooperate with, and provide funds and other
assistance to, such scientific and other institutions,
governments and other bodies and individuals
as the Board may determine in connection with
species conservation and management for other
scientific and zoological purposes; and
b) may investigate and carry out research into:
1)the design of, and equipment and procedures
in zoological parks; and
2)the care and well-being of animals kept in
zoological parks are maintained and controlled
by the Board; and
c)may provide educational services for the public
(whether in the nature of lectures, broadcasts,
films, publications or otherwise) about species
conservation and management, zoological parks
and the biology of animals and;
d)may provide and charge for such services in
connection with zoological parks maintained
and controlled by the Board as the Board may
determine; and
e)may make recommendations or reports to the
Minister with respect to matters connected with the
Board’s power, authorities, duties, functions or the
administration of this Act.
120
Appendix 2
Privacy Management
In accordance with Section 33 of the Privacy and Personal
Information Act 1988, the TCSA produced a Privacy
Management Plan in May 2000. The TCSA web site
(www.taronga.org.au) also displays the Board’s Internet Privacy
Policy with regard to personal information collected over
the internet.
The Privacy Management Plan identifies:
ρρ Collections of personal information held by the TCSA
ρρ Obligations of employees in respect of personal
information
ρρ Guiding principles for the collection, storage and
dissemination of personal information
ρρ Procedures for lodging complaints or internal reviews
For a copy of the TCSA’s Privacy Management Plan,
please contact:
Executive Assistant
Corporate Services
Taronga Zoo
PO Box 20
Mosman
NSW 2088
Tel: 9978 4709
Fax: 9969 7515
Appendix 3
Australasian Species Management Plan Participation –
Level 1a and 1b Species which are managed on a genetic and demographic level.
Species
Addax
Asian Elephant
Australian Little Penguin
Black and White Ruffed Lemur
Black-handed Spider Monkey
Black-winged Stilt
Bolivian Squirrel Monkey
Bongo
Brazilian Tapir
Broad-headed Snake
Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby
Cheetah
Chimpanzee
Cotton-Top Tamarin
Eastern Barred Bandicoot
Eastern Whipbird
Eastern Yellow Robin
Fijian Crested Iguana
Fishing Cat
Galapagos Giant Tortoise
Giraffe
Greater Bilby (NT)
Greater Bilby (QLD)
Helmeted Honeyeater
Hippopotamus
Hooded Robin
Meerkat
Noisy Pitta
Oriental Small-clawed Otter
Plains Zebra
Przewalski’s Horse
Red Panda
Regent Bowerbird
Regent Honeyeater
Ring-tailed Lemur
Rose-crowned Fruit-dove
Royal Spoonbill
Sacred Kingfisher
Satin Bowerbird
Scimitar Oryx
Siamang
Silvery Gibbon
Snow Leopard
Southern Cassowary
Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat
Southern White Rhinoceros
Held AT TZ
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Held AT WPZ
Coordinator
•
•
K Lihou
W Meikle*
T Carney
S Barlow
L Dartnall
Vacant
J Minor
V Nedved*
J Powell*
P Andrew*
R Wilkins
R Wilkins
M Finnigan
A Embury
P Courtney
Vacant
B Backhouse
P Harlow*
L Small*
J Conaghan*
L Jolly
J Bruchecker
C O’Malley
Vacant
S Barlow
B Pascoe
P Wood
P Andrew*
L Andrews
L Jolly
R Wilkins
R Dockerill*/C Hibbard*
Vacant
C Hibbard*
M Tyler
C Hibbard*
R Hudson
C Hibbard*
J Ray
R Wilkins
T Neilson-Joustra
L Cocks
M West
C Hibbard*
V Nicolson
S Kudeweh
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Species
Held AT TZ
Held AT WPZ
Coordinator
Sumatran Tiger
Sun Bear
Swift Parrot
Tasmanian Devil
Tuatara
Western Lowland Gorilla
White-browed Woodswallow
Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
C Hibbard*
G Skipper
C Srb
C Srb
B Blanchard
E Walraven*/ L Grossfeldt*
V Wilson
P Alexander
•
•
•
* Zoo Staff
Appendix 4
Animal Transactions Relating to Species Management Programs (Level 1a and 1b).
(Legend 1.1.1 = Male. Female. Undetermined Sex.)
Australasian Species Management Programs
From Taronga Conservation Society Australia
To Taronga Conservation Society Australia
0.3.0
0.1.0
0.1.0
0.1.0
0.0.2
1.1.0
1.0.0
1.2.0
0.1.0
0.2.0
0.1.0
0.1.0
13.12.3
1.0.0
0.1.0
1.0.0
1.0.0
1.0.0
1.0.0
2.0.0
1.0.0
0.1.0
1.3.0
1.1.0
1.1.0
0.1.0
1.0.0
1.0.0
1.0.2
1.0.0
1.0.0
0.0.1
1.1.0
5.1.0
122
Australian Little Penguin to Melbourne Zoo, VIC
Cotton-top Tamarin to Perth Zoo, WA
Eastern Whipbird to Dreamworld, QLD
Eastern Yellow Robin to Healesville Sanctuary, VIC
Helmeted Honeyeater to Healesville Sanctuary, VIC
Hooded Robin to Currumbin Sanctuary, QLD
Red Panda to Mogo Zoo, NSW
Regent Bowerbird to Adelaide Zoo, SA
Regent Bowerbird to Dreamworld, QLD
Regent Bowerbird to Australian Reptile Park, NSW
Regent Bowerbird to Australia Zoo, QLD
Regent Honeyeater to Currumbin Sanctuary, QLD
Regent Honeyeater to Chiltern, VIC
Snow Leopard to Melbourne Zoo, VIC
Sumatran Tiger to Adelaide Zoo, SA
White-browed Woodswallow to Melbourne Zoo, VIC
White-browed Woodswallow to Symbio Wildlife Park, NSW
White-browed Woodswallow to Dreamworld, QLD
Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby to Healesville Sanctuary, VIC
Cheetah to Hamilton Zoo, NEW ZEALAND
Bongo to Monarto Zoo, SA
Addax to Werribee Zoo, VIC
1.3.0
5.6.0
0.2.0
1.0.0
Australian Little Penguin from Public Donation
Australian Little Penguin from Perth zoo, WA
Eastern Barred Bandicoot from Melbourne Zoo, VIC
Eastern Yellow Robin from Healesville Sanctuary, VIC
Hooded Robin from Melbourne Zoo, VIC
Noisy Pitta from Public Donation
Regent Honeyeater from Adelaide Zoo, SA
Regent Honeyeater from Melbourne Zoo, VIC
Regent Honeyeater from Australian Reptile Park, NSW
Rose-crowned Fruit-dove from Public Donation
Tasmanian Devil from Australian Reptile Park, NSW
Tasmanian Devil from Department of Primary Industries
and Water, TAS
Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby from Waterfall Springs, NSW
Tasmanian Devil from Department of Primary Industries
and Water, TAS
Asian Elephant from Stardust Circus
Tasmanian Devil from Monarto Zoo, SA
Appendix 5
Research Projects and Conservation Programs
AEC No.*
Project Title
4b/06/05 Immune function studies in the koala
4c/06/05 Prevention & treatment of Cryptococcosis
in koalas
4b/02/05 Collection of samples opportunistically
for researchers from live animals during
veterinary procedures
4c/02/05 Handling of animals for educational
purposes at WPZ
4b/04/06 Demonstrating native wildlife handling and
anaesthesia procedures
4a/06/05 Education in Zoo and Outreach Programs
3b/08/05 Spatial behaviour of Leopard Seals in
Australian waters
4a/12/05 Telomeres as a possible estimator of age
in wombats
4a/02/06 Collection of opportunistic samples for
researchers from live animals during
veterinary procedures
4a/04/06 Ecology of Southern Elephant Seals on the
Antarctic Peninsula
4c/04/06 Monitoring corticoids & reproductive
hormones during transport & acclimatization
to novel environments in Asian elephants
3a/10/06 Backyard to Bush School and Visitor
Education Programs
4a/12/06 Growth rate of seal whiskers – pilot study
3c/12/06 Blood parasites in a field population of
Fijian Crested Iguanas
Diet and habitat preferences of the
Fijian Crested Iguana on Yadua Taba, Fiji:
implications for conservation
Researchers
Institution
Source of Funds
Dr D Higgins;
VQC/Australian
Mammals TZ
Dr M Krockenberger;
VQC/Australian
Mammals TZ
Dr Benn Bryant;
TWPZ
University of Sydney;
TCSA
University of Sydney
TCSA
Dr Benn Bryant;
TWPZ
Dr L Vogelnest/VQC,
TZ
Mr Ken de la Motte;
Education Centre B2B
Dr T Rogers
TCSA
Dr Andrea Taylor
Monash University
Dr L Vogelnest/VQC
TZ
TCSA
Dr T Rogers;
Dr A Carlini
T Keeley, WPZ;
Dr B Bryant, WPZ;
Dr M Lynch
Mr. Simon Duffy;
Education Centre B2B
Dr T Rogers
Dr P Harlow;
S Morrison
TCSA
Dr C Morrison;
T Osborne;
Dr P Harlow;
P Biciloa;
J Niukula
The molecular phylogeny and evolution of Dr S Keogh;
Pacific iguanas
Dr P Harlow
Tropical dry forest on Yadua Taba Island, Fiji: Dr C Morrison;
Survey of vegetation types
G Keppel;
N Thomas;
I Rounds;
Dr P Harlow
Conservation biology of the Fijian
S. Morrison;
crested iguana
Dr S Keogh;
Dr P Harlow
Ecology of communal egg-laying in reptiles E Cheetham;
Dr S Doody;
Dr P Harlow
Virological investigation of
Dr T Rogers;
Antarctic Phocids
Dr R Slade
TCSA
TCSA
No funding needed
TCSA
TCSA
Winnifred Scott
Foundation
Researchers pay
admin fee & any other
collection costs
Winnifred Scott
Foundation
TCSA;
Zoos Victoria
TCSA
AMMRC – TCSA
TCSA ANU
University of the
South Pacific;
TCSA
Zoo Friends Fellowship;
International Iguana
Foundation
Pacific Biological
Foundation
ANU TCSA
ANU
University of the
South Pacific;
TCSA
Pacific Biological
Foundation
ANU
TCSA
ANU;
International Iguana
Foundation
University of Canberra; University of Canberra
TCSA
AMMRC – TCSA;
University of
Queensland
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Research Projects and Conservation Programs (continued)
AEC No.*
Project Title
Researchers
Institution
Information entropy analysis in
Leopard Seals
3a/02/07
3b/02/07
3a/04/07
3b/04/07
3a/11/07
3b/11/07
124
Dr T Rogers;
AMMRC – TCSA;
Assoc Prof John Buck University of
Massachusetts
Acoustic surveys of Antarctic pack ice seals Dr T Rogers;
AMMRC – TCSA;
M Ciaglia;
DSTO
G Rowney;
Dr D Cato
UNSW;
Fertility management of koalas, kangaroos Dr C Herbert;
& wallabies; Remote delivery trials in the
Dr L Vogelnest
TCSA
Eastern Grey Kangaro
Experimental Research to Obtain a Better Dr Alex Hyatt;
Australian Animal
Understanding of the Potential Presence
Dr Linfa Wang;
Health Laboratories;
Dr John Bingham;
and Impact of New Amphibian Diseases
James Cook University
in Australia.
Dr Jacki Pallister;
(JCU);
Dr Rick Speare;
Dr Lee Berger;
Wildlife Health;
Dr Lee Skerratt;
The Amphibian
Dr Karrie Rose;
Research Centre –
Jane Hall;
Cairns Frog Hospital
Mr G Marrantelli;
Ms Deborah Pergolotti
Hosting a Digital Information Network
Dr Karrie Rose;
Australian Registry
(DINS)
Dr Alex Hyatt
of Wildlife Health;
Australian Animal
Health Laboratories
Surveillance of wild birds in NSW for avian Dr Peter Kirkland;
NSW DPI;
influenza
Mr John Tracey;
University of
Dr Phil Hansboro;
Newcastle;
Dr Karrie Rose
Wildlife Health
Wildlife Disease Investigation Publications Dr Karrie Rose;
Jane Hall
– reprinting Wildlife Health Investigation
Wildlife Health
Manual. Preparing Wild Bird Disease
Surveillance Guidelines
Trypanosoma evansi in Agile wallabies
Dr Simon Reid;
Murdoch University;
(Macropus agilis)
Dr Jonathan Lee;
Northern Australia
Dr Karrie Rose
Quarantine Service;
Wildlife Health
Maintaining Genetic Diversity of the
T Keeley, WPZ;
TCSA (WPZ);
Tasmanian Devil: Development of Assisted Dr P McGreevy;
Reproductive Technology
Dr J O’Brien;
DPIW Tasmania
Dr H Hesterman;
Dr M Jones
Ecology of pack ice seals on the
Dr T Rogers;
AMMRC – TCSA
Antarctic Peninsula
Dr A Carlini;
Dr C Hogg
Audiometric behaviour of pinnipeds
Dr T Rogers;
AMMRC – TCSA
Dr C Hogg
Evolution of reptile sex chromosomes and Mr Denis O’Meally
ANU;
sex determination systems
TCSA
Leopard-seal vocal learning
Dr Tracey Rogers;
TSCA
Dr Carolyn Hogg
The Radiomorphology of the echidna and
Mr J Robinson;
the koala
Mr Alastair Lyon;
TSCA
Ms Maila Aqudera;
Dr Larry Vogelnest
Source of Funds
ASAC;
Winnifred Scott
Foundation
UNSW
DEW
Funded Funding
January 2007 to
June 2008
DEW
DAFF
DAFF
Australian Biosecurity;
CRC
Morris Animal
Foundation, USA
Winnifred Scott
Foundation
CT imaging
AEC No.*
Project Title
3c/11/07 The genetic importance of natural
mate choice and the repercussions
of circumvention
Management of Captive Southern Hairynosed Wombats (Lasiorhinus latifrons):
A Model for the Future Captive
Management of Northern Hairy-nosed
Wombats (Lasiorhinus krefftii)
Characterisation of oestrous cycle activity,
pregnancy and lactation in the Julia Creek
Dunnart (Sminthopsis Douglasi) using
a combination of urogenital cytology,
behavioural oestrus and a faecal EIA.
Testosterone secretion, testicular histology
and the cryopreservation of cauda
epididymal spermatozoa in the common
ringtail possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus)
3a/01/08 Individual marking of Booroolong Frogs
3b/01/08 Availability of dietary magnesium to White
Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) held
at TWPZ
3a/03/08 Analysis of fish bones in sea-lion scat
3b/03/08 Semen collection, spermatozoa
characterisation and cryopreservation
and artificial insemination in the Fiordland
Crested penguin Eudyptes pachyrhynchus
3a/05/08 ACTH challenge in the
Greater One-horned Rhinoceros
3b/05/08 Leopard-seal biomechanics
3c/05/08 Intrauterine Foeto-material interactions
and Baistocyst response to GIHR against
treatment in Macropodid Marsupials
Nutritional status of a captive white
rhinoceros (C simum) group with respect
to magnesium
Oestrus synchronisation of black rhinoceros
(D bicornis) using progestagen withdrawl
and hCG
Researchers
Institution
Dr Rebecca Spindler;
Dr Kathy Belov
TCSA;
L Hogan;
Dr A Horsup;
Dr C Phillips;
Dr V Nicolson;
T Keeley, WPZ;
S Walton;
Dr S D Johnston1
The University of
Queensland;
QPWS;
Rockhampton
Dreamworld;
TCSA (WPZ);
Rockhampton
Zoological Gardens
The University of
Queensland;
David Fleay Wildlife
Park;
TCSA (WPZ)
University of
Queensland;
QPWS,
EPA;
TCSA (WPZ)
TCSA
K Pollock;
Dr S D Johnston;
Dr R Booth;
K Grogan;
T Keeley, WPZ
D J Phillips;
A McKinnon;
T Keeley, WPZ;
R Wilson;
S D Johnston
Dr Peter Harlow;
Mr Michael;
McFadden
Pietro Celi;
Asti May;
Dr Benn Bryant
Dr Sandra Diamond
Dr Larry Vogelnest;
Dr Rebecca Spindler
TSCA
Dr Benn Bryant;
Ms Tamara Keeley
Dr Stephen Wroe;
Dr Tracey Rogers;
Dr Carolyn Hogg
Dr Larry Vogelnest;
Dr Catherine Herbert;
Thomas Hildebrandt
TCSA
Dr B Bryant, WPZ;
Dr T Portas, WPZ;
Asti May,
Dr B Bryant, WPZ;
Dr T Hildebrandt;
Dr T Portas, WPZ;
T Keeley WPZ;
Dr F Goritz;
Dr F Schwarzenberger;
Dr R Hermes
Immunological contraception of a male
Dr B Bryant, WPZ;
giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalus) using
Dr T Portas, WPZ;
GnRF vaccine
T Keeley WPZ
Fundraising for support of Turtle
Herpetofauna Division;
Conservation and Ecology Program at Cuc TZ
Phong Turtle Conservation Center (Vietnam)
Source of Funds
EPA Wombat
Foundation;
Smart State Grant;
University of
Queensland Research
scholarship
Murray River
Catchment Authority;
HTM Wilson
Foundation
TCSA
UNSW;
TSCA
TSCA;
Berlin Institute of Zoo
and Wildlife Research
TCSA;
TCSA;
IZW;
University for Vet
Medicine, Vienna
IZW;
TCSA
TCSA
TCSA
Public donations
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Research Projects and Conservation Programs (continued)
AEC No.*
Project Title
Researchers
Corroboree Frog Recovery Program (DEC) G Marantelli;
M McFadden;
M Saxon;
R Pietsch;
D Hunter;
Dr W Osborne
Booroolong Frog Captive Husbandry and
M McFadden;
D Hunter;
Release (DEC)
R Pietsch
Marine wildlife strandings and prognosis – L Ward;
an evaluation of the last 20 years
R Spindler;
S Duffy
Demographic management of Java Sparrow C Hibbard;
Padda oxyura in a walk-through aviary
M Shiels
Spider web selection by small passerines
W Angus
for nest building behaviour
Can enrichment exacerbate stereotypic
M Hawkins;
behaviour in the Sun Bear
L Ginman
Release of Regent Honeyeaters to
W Angus;
Chiltern Victoria
C Hibbard;
M Shiels;
R Dockerill
Institution
Source of Funds
ARC (Vic.);
TCSA;
DEC;
University of Canberra
TCSA;
DEC
Murray Catchment
Management Authority
TCSA;
UNSW
TCSA;
TCSA
USyd
TCSA;
UNSW
TCSA;
DEC
• T
his number indicates approval by the TCSA Ethics Committee which is required for all projects with a research component under the NSW Animal Research
Act, 1985
Appendix 6
Post-mortem and Clinical Samples Supplied for Research and Teaching Purposes
Receiving Organisation
Individual
Sample and Purpose
Australian National University
Australian National University
Dr O’Meally
Dr Bender
Australian Museum
Dr Boles;
Dr Ingleby;
Mr Sadlier
Ms Johnson
A/Prof Rasko
Blood or eye/pericardium from Tuatara and Colubrid snakes: genetic studies
Blood and tissues from Tasmanian Devils: Tasmanian Devil Facial
Tumour research
Bird carcasses: education and display
Australian/Pacific mammal carcasses: education and display
Herpetofauna carcasses: education and display
Tissue samples from all species: preparing a genetic library.
Blood/serum and organs from any mammals: identification of viral
sequences
Serum/plasma, post mortem tissues from marsupials: Marsupial immune
function and disease
Blood from zoo collection animals: determine if disease can be transferred
to wild Brushtail Possums
Serum from macropods, dingos: Australian Leishmania lifecycle Investigation
Australian Museum
Centenary Institute of Cancer
Macquarie University
Department of Biological
Sciences
Ms Deane
Menzies School of Health
Research, Northern Territory
Monash University
Ms Dougal
St George Hospital
University of Liverpool, UK
Dr Clark
Dr Nelson
University of Queensland
Dr Breed
Dr Malik
Ms Hill
Dr Gunn
Dr Hemsley
126
Skin biopsy from Dingo, Bilby, Bridled Nailtail Wallaby, Easten Quolls:
DNA resource library
Blood from chimps, gorillas, orang-utans: SGM1 gene in spinal development
Digit measurements from non-human primates: primate mating strategies
and sociality
Hair from Western Lowland Gorilla: Risk assessment of the introduction of
Nipah virus to Australia via flying fox
EDTA and serum from non-domestic cats: blood groups and blood
parasites in captive cats
Marsupial carcasses: education
Individual
Sample and Purpose
University of Western Sydney
Dr Renshaw
Hair from Antechinus, Dunnarts, Gliders, Brushtail Possum, Leadbeater’s
Possum, Rat
Dr Rogers
Pinniped and cetacean carcasses and tissues: Education, behaviour and
hormones in marine mammals
Serum and tissues from various native animals of disease concern/interest
TCSA
(Australian Marine Mammal
Research Centre)
(Australian Registry of
Wildlife Health)
Dr Rose
Appendix 7
Scientific Advisors
Consultant
Institution
Consultancy
Dr G Allan
Veterinary Imaging Associates
Radiologist
Dr S Beutum
General Practitioner
Physician
Dr I Beveridge
University of Melbourne
Parasitology
Dr A Black
Northern Sydney Veterinary Specialist Centre
Orthopaedic Surgery
Dr P Canfield
Pathology
Dr G Childs
North Ryde Vet Specialist Centre
Veterinary Neurologist
Dr D Clarke
K-9 Gums
Dentistry
Dr C Dart
Anaesthesia
Prof I Fraser
Gynaecology
Dr Sarah Goldsmid
Animal Referral Hospital
Feline Medicine & Surgery
Dr WJ Hartley
Scientific advisor
Pathology
Dr L Heuston
Westmead Hospital – ICPMR
Arboviral Research
Dr R Howlett
Faculty of Medicine, UNSW
Pathology
Dr B Hudson
Royal North Shore Hospital
Infectious Diseases
Dr K Hoffman
Animal Referral Hospital
Sonology
Dr A Hyatt
Australian Animal Health Laboratories
Molecular Biologist
Dr P Kirkland
Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute
Virology
Dr M Kluckow
North Shore Private Hospital
Neonatal paediatrician
Prof C Maxwell
Reproductive physiology
Mr J Marriott
Radincon
Digital radiography equipment
Dr A McLennan
Royal North Shore Hospital
Human reproductive ultrasonographer
Dr T Mogg
Equine Medicine
Dr RJ Montali
University of California, Davis
Pathology
Dr J O’Brien
Reproductive Physiology
Dr P O’Donoghue
University of Queensland
Parasitologist
Dr B Reinberger
Goat Market Assurance Program
Dr J Salpada
Parasitologist
Dr C Shilton
Berrimah Veterinary Laboratories N.T. DPIFM
Veterinary Pathologist
Dr C Smith
Equine Medicine & Surgery
Dr J Smith
Eye Clinic for Animals
Ophthalmology
Dr R Speare
Amphibian Research
Dr D Spratt
CSIRO
Parasitology
Dr LJ Vogelnest
Dermatology
Dr B Webster
Westmead Children’s Hospital
Haematologist
Dr C Whittaker
Eye Clinic for Animals
Ophthalmology
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Appendix 8
Paid Consultancies Undertaken by the Board
Report/Services
Herpetofauna Division
Green and Golden Bell Frog Consultancy
Village Building Company, ACT
Veterinary pathology consultancies
Austral and Canley Heights Veterinary Clinics
Veterinary consultancies
Australia Walkabout Wildlife World
Veterinary and Pathology consultancies of confiscated animals
as required
NSW Department of Environment and Conservation
Dr Ian Hough, South Australia
Kulnurra Veterinary Clinic
Oceanworld, Manly
Sydney Aquarium
Sydney Wildlife World
Sydney Olympic Park Authority
University of NSW, Cowan Field Station
University of Wollongong
Appendix 9
Lectures and Presentations by Zoo Staff
Subject
Staff Member
Receiving Body
Little Penguin Project – Keeper Presentations
2008
E Bell;
J Walker;
B Collis-Rojas
Manly School Groups – Project Penguin
Learning in Animals
E Bell
School Group – Psychology
‘Innovation in Conservation’
C Bianchi
ASZK
‘Innovation in Conservation’
C Bianchi
Australasian Training Conference
Palm oil plantations and Orang-utans
H Browning-Jones
Association of Zoo Friends (NSW) Inc
Orang-utans and the palm oil crisis
H Browning-Jones
University of the 3rd Age
Managing the health of captive populations
B Bryant
Post grad students undertaking Masters degree in
‘Wildlife Health and Population Management’
The Sumatran Rhinoceros Sanctuary
B Bryant
The Geography Teachers Association of NSW
Zoos and their participation in disease
surveillance
C Bunn;
R Woods
Animal Training and conditioning talk
and presentations
L Carroll;
T Bell
International Detector Dog Training Academy
Antarctic trip 2006
M Ciaglia
TCSA Employees, September Quarterly Update
River Horses-hippos, a natural history
M Collins
Przewalski release in Mongolia
J Davis
Taronga Wildlife Hospital
V Di Giglio
“Platypus” group, Zoo Friends
128
Subject
Staff Member
Receiving Body
Creepy Crawlies – what role spiders play in
our lives
S Elton;
B Finlayson;
G Virgona
Meet a Keeper
M Grainger;
B McKenzie
School Groups
Little Penguin Project – Keeper
Presentations 2007
M Grainger;
J Walker
Manly School Groups – Project Penguin
Alpacas & guanacos
A Green
Conservation efforts for Greater One Horned
Rhino in Nepal and India
K Garard
Annual ASZK Conference 2008
Care and rehabilitation of Little Penguins at
Taronga Zoo
E Hall
School groups as part of the Education Centre’s ‘Little
Penguin Project’
Catching and handling of oiled wildlife
E Hall
Queensland DEH, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
Authority, Airlie Beach
Rehabilitation of oiled seabirds
E Hall
Queensland DEH, Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
Authority, Airlie Beach
Restraint and intensive care of wildlife
E Hall
SMWS Annual Meeting and Workshop, Lane Cove
Bird Rehabilitation
E Hall
Bird Workshop at 2008 ASZK Annual Conference,
Rooty Hill
Seabird Rehabilitation
E Hall
SOSSA, Wollongong
Meet a Keeper – Native Animal Awareness
P Hare
School Groups
Designer Frogs for Reintroduction Experiments P Harlow
ARAZPA Conference, March 2008, Taronga Zoo
Ecology and Biology of Australian reptiles
and amphibians
P Harlow
Australian Catholic University, Biology students
Conservation biology of the Fijian
Crested Iguana
P Harlow
Macquarie University, Biology students
The past, present and future of the endemic
Pacific iguanas (Brachylophus sp.) and the
importance of small island refugia
P Harlow
The Biodiversity Extinction Crisis Conference.
University of NSW
Fijian Crested Iguana In-Situ Conservation
P Harlow
University of NSW Conservation Biology
3rd year students
Let’s Re-arrange the Furniture:
Enrichment Effects of Moving or Replacing
Exhibit Furniture
M Hawkins
8th International Conference on
Environmental Enrichment
Let’s Re-arrange the Furniture:
Enrichment Effects of Moving or Replacing
Exhibit Furniture
M Hawkins
Federal Department of Environment and Water
Animal Watch: Who we are and what we do
M Hawkins
TCSA Capital Works and Infrastructure Staff
Behavioural Monitoring: Essential in a Captive
Environment
M Hawkins
Environmental Enrichment for Birds
M Hawkins
ASZK Bird Keeper Development Workshop
Wild bird surveillance –
reports, activities, issues
L Haynes
Government/industry avian influenza forum II, Canberra
Science based Educational Experiences for
Stages 4-6
D Haesler
Science Teachers Association Western Region AGM
Practical experiences available for Secondary
Geography students at TWPZ
D Haesler
Geography Teachers Association Meeting
Black Rhino transport to SA
G Holmes
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Lectures and Presentations by Zoo Staff (continued)
Subject
Staff Member
Receiving Body
Transportation of two Black Rhinos from
Taronga Western Plains Zoo to Monarto Zoo
G Holmes
Conservation in zoos Todd will discuss the
conservation efforts of zoos in New Zealand
and Australia
T Jenkinson
New Zealand native species programs
T Jenkinson
Hospital care of reptiles
R Johnson
Unusual and Exotic Pets Conference, North Queensland
AVA, Cairns
Crocodile farming in the Czech republic
R Johnson
AVA, Cairns
Common diseases of captive reptiles
R Johnson
AVA, Cairns
Anorexia in captive pythons
R Johnson
AVA, Cairns
Diagnosis and treatment of Injured and
diseased native wildlife
R Johnson
World Small Animal Veterinary Association Congress,
Sydney
Captive management of Macropods and
herpetofauna (tutorials)
R Johnson
University of Sydney, Veterinary Conservation Biology
post-grad students
The Zoo industry in Australia
R Johnson
James Cook University, Townsville, Veterinary students
Wildlife and welfare – reptiles as pets
R Johnson
Australian Veterinarians for Animal Welfare and Ethics,
AVA seminar, University of Sydney, Camden
Venomoid snakes
R Johnson
Policy Advisory Council, AVA National Conference, Perth
Metabolic bone diseases
R Johnson
Euthanasia of exotic and unusual pets
R Johnson
Metabolic bone diseases
R Johnson
CARA Conference, WildExpo, Sydney
Lion Enrichment, what are the benefits
H Joseph
Bongo, Natural history and Captive management R Jones
Scimitar Horned Oryx – Natural History and
captive management
S Keenan
Maintaining the genetic diversity of the
Tasmanian devil: Development of assisted
reproductive technology
T Keeley
Post Graduate Conference, University of Sydney
The Role of Reproductive Biology in
Zoo Conservation
T Keeley
University of Sydney students – Wildlife Health and
Population Management residential school
Maintaining the genetic diversity of the
Tasmanian devil: Development of assisted
reproductive technology
T Keeley
TCSA Board Meeting
The Development of a Short-Term Sperm
Preservation Method for the Tasmanian Devil
(Sarcophilus harrisii).
T Keeley
Ex-situ Management Workshop for Amphibian
Conservation in south-east Asia
M McFadden
Frog conservation at Taronga Zoo
M McFadden
Friends of the Future Christmas Luncheon
Conservation and management of amphibians
M McFadden
University of Technology Sydney, 3rd Year Wildlife
Ecology students
Amphibian Feeding and Nutrition
M McFadden
Malaysian Amphibian Conservation and
Husbandry workshop
130
Subject
Staff Member
Receiving Body
Water Quality
M McFadden
Husbandry workshop
Amphibian Husbandry and Enclosure Design
M McFadden
Husbandry workshop
Ex-situ Conservation Techniques
M McFadden
Husbandry workshop
Conserving the critically endangered
Corroboree Frog
M McFadden
Frog and Tadpole Study Group
Amphibians in danger
M McFadden
Sydney Metro Wildlife Services
Australia’s endangered frogs
M McFadden
East WIRES branch
Insect Ecology
M McFadden
University of Technology Sydney,
2nd Year Biodiversity students
Reptile Ecology
M McFadden
Amphibian Declines
M McFadden
Biodiversity and Conservation
M McFadden
Amphibian diseases and biosecurity
M McFadden
Thailand Amphibian Conservation and
Husbandry workshop
Identification techniques
M McFadden
Husbandry workshop
Amphibian sexing techniques and reproduction
M McFadden
Husbandry workshop
Water quality and tadpole husbandry
M McFadden
Husbandry workshop
Amphibian declines and the response of the zoo M McFadden
community
Care of Australian Reptiles and Amphibians conference
The ZPB’s Corroboree Frog
Conservation Project
M McFadden
University of NSW Conservation Biology
3rd year students
Amphibian declines and conservation
M McFadden
Education SAG, ARAZPA conference, Sydney
Ex-situ Amphibian Conservation
M McFadden
ARAZPAQ conference, Coolangatta
Anaesthesia of Przwalski’s Horses at Fern Hill
and the use of etorphine
J Milgate
Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia & Association of
Zoo Vet Technicians; Annual Conference
Environmental Choice and Natural
Behaviour in the Group of Asian Elephants
(Elephas maximus) at Taronga Zoo
V Nedved
International Conference on Environmental Enrichment
Preference of Various Floor Covering and
Substrate Choice of Asian Elephants (Elaphas
maximus) at Taronga Zoo
V Nedved
ARAZPA Conference 2008 – poster presentation
Why Gibbons sing
H Quine
A lot from a little…Zoo Friends Volunteer
Enrichment workshops at Taronga Western
Plains Zoo
H Quine
Overview of AMMRC Research
T Rogers
USIMS Showcase, University of Sydney
Cetacean Research
T Rogers
World Ocean Day Celebration, Mosman Council
The leopard seal: A barometer for the
Southern Ocean
T Rogers
Breaking the Ice…4th Annual K-8 Science &
Technology Conference, Science Teachers Association,
Powerhouse Museum
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Lectures and Presentations by Zoo Staff (continued)
Subject
Staff Member
Receiving Body
The leopard seal: A barometer for the
Southern Ocean
T Rogers
NSW Primary School Teachers, Tall Poppy @ Zoo Day
Using Animal-borne Imaging to Predict
Future Changes
T Rogers
Animal Bourne Imaging Symposium
Public Seminar: Animals & Instruments
T Rogers
Public Seminar: Global Warming and Wildlife
T Rogers
Wildlife Health and Biosecurity in Australia
K Rose
Wildlife Health and Biosecurity Workshop – Canberra
Wildlife health and Biosecurity in Australia and
the Australian Biosecurity Intelligence Network
K Rose
Workshop – Review of the Wildlife Exotic Disease
Preparedness Canberra
K Rose
AWHN Universities and Wildlife Disease Workshop,
Sydney
Australian Registry of Wildlife Health – recent
events
K Rose
Wildlife Disease Association Conference, Dryandra, WA
National Collaborative Research Infrastructure
Strategy – Australian Biosecurity Intelligence
Network overview
K Rose
AWHN AGM Dryandra, WA
Wildlife Health and Biosecurity in Australia
K Rose;
J Hall
ARAZPA Conference, Sydney
Emerging Diseases in Australian Wildlife
K Rose
Exotic Animal Diseases in Wildlife training course, Geelong
Contingency Planning for infectious Disease
K Rose;
C Smith
Selected Diseases of Marsupials
K Rose
Leishmania in Australia
K Rose
Australian Veterinary Association Conference –
Public Health Stream Perth
K Rose
Australian Society of Veterinary Pathologists –
10-11 November – Melbourne
Fish Husbandry and Aquatic Systems
A Skidmore
Ultimo TAFE TVET students
Aquarium Systems – Not Just for Fish
A Skidmore
Cocos Island Quarantine
S Smith
Elephants in the Cocos Islands.
S Smith
Studies of reproduction for conservation impact R Spindler
University of Sydney, School of Biology
Jaguars – zoo research to conservation
R Spindler
management and policy change in four projects
Royal Zoological Society, NSW
Adjunct Research Fellow –
R Spindler
Giant Panda Biomedical Survey –
multidisciplinary research to tackle
population health
R Spindler
University of Sydney, Veterinary School
Koalas to Thailand
S Stark
Keeper experiences of a Rotary International
Exchange to South Africa
S Stark
Morningside Rotary Club meeting
S Stark
Blackheath Rotary Club meeting
S Stark
Benoni Van Ryn Rotary Club
S Stark
Vereeniging Rotary Club
132
Subject
Staff Member
Receiving Body
S Stark
Rotary District Conference 9300
S Stark
Dubbo West Rotary Club
S Stark
Rotary District Conference 9670
S Stark
Johannesburg Main Reef Rotary Club
The Race to save the Tasmanian Devil
S Stark
ARAZPA Conference Taronga Zoo
Zoofari Dinner Presentation
R Tate;
S Duffy
Taronga Foundation Fundraiser
Stifle osteochondritis dissecans in sibling
Snow Leopards
K Vinette Herrin
2007 Annual Conference of the WDA – Australasian
Section, Dryandra, WA
An Evolutionary Look at Australian Wildlife
G Virgona;
T Bell
Odyessy Gold Tour
Veterinary Programs of the ZPB
L Vogelnest
Department of Environment and Water
Extra-mural veterinary student training
opportunities at Taronga Zoo
L Vogelnest
University of Sydney, Veterinary Science students
Captive management of Macropods and
herpetofauna (tutorials)
L Vogelnest
University of Sydney, Veterinary Conservation Biology
post-grad students
The veterinary aspects of the importation of
Asian elephants from Thailand to Australia
L Vogelnest
International Elephant Foundation’s annual International
Elephant Conservation and Research Symposium,
Florida, USA
Importation of Asian elephants from Thailand to L Vogelnest
Australia
Bi-monthly meeting of the Australian Association of
Veterinary Conservation Biologists, Taronga Zoo
Elephant health and Reproduction at
Taronga Zoo
L Vogelnest
2008 ARAZPA Annual Conference, Taronga Zoo
Veterinary Management of Zoo birds
L Vogelnest
Bird Workshop at 2008 ASZK Annual Conference
Veterinary considerations for the rescue, treatment, L Vogelnest
rehabilitation and release of Wildlife
Post-graduate Foundation in Veterinary Science,
“Wildlife” Course, University of Sydney
Emergency care of Australian native wildlife
L Vogelnest
Post-graduate Foundation in Veterinary Science,
“Wildlife” Course, University of Sydney
Care and rehabilitation of Little Penguins at
Taronga Zoo
G Watkinson
School groups as part of the Education Centre Little
Penguin Program, Taronga Zoo
Formation of Species
A Watson
Crocodiles in the classroom
J Webster
Scimitar horned Oryx
J Webster
Behavioural Enrichment at Taronga Zoo –
Accrediting Enrichment
M Willemsen
ARAZPA Conference 2008 – poster presentation
Marine mammals and rodents. Woods R.
2008. Australian Wildlife Health Network
overview. Review of the wildlife exotic disease
preparedness program (WEDPP) 2–3 April
Belconnen Premier Inn, Canberra
R Woods
Training course in exotic animal disease preparedness
for free-ranging wildlife and feral animal personnel.
CSIRO AAHL
National disease surveillance, fitting in the global
scene, and research priorities for wildlife
R Woods
Review of the wildlife exotic disease preparedness
program (WEDPP).
Australian Wildlife Health Network overview
R Woods
Review of the wildlife exotic disease preparedness
program (WEDPP)
Little Penguin Information Evening
L Wright;
B Collis-Rojas
Fundraiser Thank you Event
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Appendix 10
Grey Literature
Publications
Harlow, P. (2007). On the Comeback Trail. Zoonooz,
September: p12-13.
Peer-reviewed Journal Articles & Book Chapters
Hall-Aspland, S.A., and Rogers, T.L. (2007) Identification of
hairs found in leopard seal (Hydrurga leptonyx) scats. Polar
Biology, 30(5): 581-585.
Haynes, L., Arzey, E., Bell, C., Buchanan, N., Burgess, G.,
Cronan, V., Dickason, C., Field, H., Gibbs, S., Hansbro, P.M.,
Hollingsworth, T., Hurt, A.C., Kirkland, P., McCracken, H.,
O’Connor, J., Tracey, J., Wallner, J., Warner, S., Woods, R. and
Bunn, C. (2008) Australian surveillance for avian influenza
viruses in wild birds (July 2005 to June 2007). Australian
Veterinary Journal, (in review).
Hawkins, M. (2008) Do we do enough enrichment for
Australian Mammals? Thylacinus 32: 16-21.
Hill NJ, Dubey JP, Vogelnest L, Power ML, Deane EM (2008)
Do free-ranging brushtail possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) play
a role in the transmission of Toxoplasma gondii within a zoo
environment? Veterinary Parasitology 152: 202-209.
Johnston, S. D., Ward, D., Lemon, J.,. Gunn, I., MacCallum, C.,
Keeley, T. and Blyde, D. (2007). Studies of male reproduction
in captive African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) at Taronga
Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo. Animal Reproduction Science,
100: 338-355.
McFadden, M. and Harlow, P. (2007). Captive reproduction
and longevity in Tawny Crevice (Ctenophorus decresii) and
Central Netted Dragons (C. nuchalis). Herpetofauna, 37(1):
23-27.
McFadden, M., Duffy, S., Harlow, P., Hobcroft, D., Webb,
C., and Ward-Fear, G. A Review of the Green and Golden
Bell Frog (Litoria aurea) breeding program at Taronga Zoo.
Australian Zoologist, in press.
Phillips, D. J., McKinnon, A., Keeley, T., Wilson, R., and
Johnston, S. D. (2008). Testosterone secretion, testicular
histology and the cryopreservation of cauda epididymidal
spermatozoa in the common ringtail possum (Pseudocheirus
peregrinus). Reprod. Fert. Devel. 20: 1-11.
Portas TJ, Hermes R, Bryant BR, F Göritz, Keeley T, Evans G,
Maxwell WM and Hildebrandt TB (2007) Semen collection
in an Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) under combined
physical and chemical restraint. Aust. Vet. J. 85: 425-427.
Portas TJ, Bryant BR, Jones SL, Humphreys K, and Gilpin C M,
Rose K A. Investigation and Diagnosis of Nontuberculous
mycobacteriosis in a captive herd of Aoudad (Ammotragus
lervia) Submitted to the Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine.
Date: 25 February 2008.
Rogers, T. (2007) Age-related differences in the acoustic
characteristics of male leopard seals, Hydrurga leptonyx. Journal
of the Acoustical Society of America, 122(1): 596-605.
Rose K. 2007. Wildlife health investigation and a guide to post
mortem examination of Australian mammals. In Medicine of
Australian Mammals, Eds L Vogelnest and R Woods. CSIRO
Publishing, Melbourne. In Press.
134
Boylan, T. (2007). Here be Dragons. Zoonooz, September: p8-9.
Harlow, P. (2007). Castaways of the Pacific. Zoonooz,
December: p8-9.
Harlow, P. (2008). Just a hop away from extinction. Zoonooz,
March: p12-13.
Kozlowski, S. (2007). Deadly Babies. Zoonooz, June: p21.
Kozlowski, S. (2007). Growing up – and up. Zoonooz,
September: p20.
McFadden, M. (2007). Frogs on the Edge. Zoonooz, June: p20.
Skidmore, A. (2007). Looks don’t matter…or do they?
Zoonooz, December: p18.
Workshops Convened
Hall, L (2008) Umpire at an Oiled Wildlife Exercise in
assistance to the Queensland Department of Environment and
Heritage and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.
Airlie Beach, Queensland.
Haynes L. Training course in exotic animal disease
preparedness for free-ranging wildlife and feral animal
personnel. CSIRO AAHL. May 2008.
Haynes L. Review of the wildlife exotic disease preparedness
program (WEDPP). Canberra April 2008.
Haynes L. Universities and Wildlife Disease workshop: The role
of Universities in improving wildlife biosecurity for Australia.
Sydney NSW July 2007.
Hawkins, M. and Nedved, V. – 8th International Conference on
Environmental Enrichment, August 2007, Vienna, Austria.
Hawkins, M. – ASZK Bird Keeper Development Workshop.
McFadden, M. Facilitated the Ex-situ Management workshop
at the Malaysia Amphibian Conservation workshop. Kuala
Lumpur, Malaysia, 2008.
McFadden, M. Convened the Thailand Amphibian
Conservation and Husbandry workshop. Thailand, 2008.
Renwick, C. Convenor – Interpretation Australia Association
Annual Conference Building Blocks November 2008, Sydney.
Rogers, T. Animal Bourne Imaging Symposium, October 2007.
Washington, D.C., U.S.A.
Rose, K. Australian Biosecurity – Cooperative Research
Centre (AB-CRC). July 2007.
Rose, K. Represented ARAZPA at the Joint Industry
Government Avian Influenza Workshop – Canberra. June 2008.
Vogelnest, L and Arthur, E (2008) “Anaesthesia of Zoo Animals”
workshops for the 2008 Annual Scientific Meeting of the
Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists, Faculty of
Pain Medicine and Joint Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine.
Woods R. Universities and Wildlife Disease workshop: The role
of Universities in improving wildlife biosecurity for Australia.
Sydney July 2007.
Woods R. Woylie symposium. Murdoch University
February 2008.
Conference and Workshop Proceedings
Bishop, N. Taronga Zoo’s NAIDOC Bird Show. Australasia
Training and Conditioning Conference. Melbourne,
November 2007.
Duffy, S, Hutchinson, B, Renwick, C. 21 challenges: Visitor
Education & Interpretation in the 21st Century. ARAZPA
Conference, 2008.
Gillespie, J ‘Captive Breeding and Management Of Malleefowl
(Leipoa Ocellata) At Western Plains Zoo, 1989 To Present’,
Malleefowl Forum, Katanning, WA.
Harlow, P. (2008). Designer Frogs for Reintroduction
Experiments. Proceedings of the ARAZPA conference,
Taronga Zoo, Australia.
Harlow, P. (2007). The past, present and future of the endemic
Pacific iguanas (Brachylophus sp.) and the importance of small
island refugia. The Biodiversity Extinction Crisis Conference,
University of NSW.
Hawkins M. (2008) Let’s Re-arrange the Furniture: Enrichment
Effects of Moving or Replacing Exhibit Furniture. Proceedings
of 8th International Conference on Environmental Enrichment.
August 2007, Vienna, Austria.
Hawkins, M. (2008) Behavioural Monitoring: Essential in
a Captive Environment Proceedings of ARAZPA Annual
Conference, March 2008, Taronga Conservation Society, Sydney.
Hawkins, M. (2008) Environmental Enrichment for Birds.
Proceedings of ASZK Bird Keeper Development Workshop,
May 2008, Sydney NSW.
Hutchinson, B. How do we communicate the changing role of
a modern zoo? Interpretation Australia Conference 2007.
Johnson R S P (In press) Thirty years of rehab – experiences
of a wildlife veterinarian. In: Proceedings, Royal Zoological
Society of NSW Seminar 2006: Too close for comfort –
contentious issues in human wildlife encounters.
Keeley, T., O’Brien, J. K. and McGreevy, P. 2008.
The Development of a Short-Term Sperm Preservation Method
for the Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii). Proceedings
ARAZPA Annual Conference March 2008, Taronga
Conservation Society, Sydney.
McFadden, M. (2008). Ex-situ Management Workshop for
Amphibian Conservation in south-east Asia. Proceedings of
the ARAZPA conference, Taronga Zoo, Australia.
McFadden, M. (2008). Amphibian declines and the response
of the zoo community Proceedings of the Care of Australian
Reptiles and Amphibians conference. Castle Hill, Australia.
Nedved, V. (2008) Environmental Choice and Natural
Behaviour in the Group of Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus)
at Taronga Zoo. Proceedings of 8th International Conference
on Environmental Enrichment. August 2007, Vienna, Austria.
Nedved, V. (2008) Preference of Various Floor Covering and
Substrate Choice of Asian Elephants (Elaphas maximus) at
Taronga Zoo. Proceedings of ARAZPA Annual Conference,
March 2008, Taronga Conservation Society, Sydney.
Rogers, T. Using Animal-borne Imaging to Predict Future
Changes. Animal Bourne Imaging Symposium, 11 October
2007. Washington, D.C., U.S.A.
Rose, K. Wildlife Health and Biosecurity Workshop – Convened
the workshop and wrote the proceedings August 2007
Canberra, ACT.
Rose, K. Australian Registry of Wildlife Health – recent events
– Wildlife Disease Association September 2007. Dryandra WA.
Rose, K. National Collaborative Research Infrastructure
Strategy – Australian Biosecurity Intelligence Network
overview – AWHN AGM. September 2007 Dryandra WA.
Rose, K. Wildlife Health and Biosecurity in Australia –
Proceedings ARAZPA Conference March 2008 Taronga
Conservation Society, Sydney.
Rose, K. Leishmania in Australia – Australian Veterinary
Association Conference – Public Health Stream, May 2008.
Perth WA.
Rose, K. Annual Report of the Australian Registry of Wildlife
Health submitted to the Annual General Meetings of the
Australian Society of Veterinary Pathology and the Wildlife
Disease Association Australia.
Rose, K. Regular submissions to the newsletters if the
Australian Association of Veterinary Conservation Biologists
and the Wildlife Disease Association, Australasia.
Rose, K. Meetings of the Australian Veterinary Association and
the Wildlife Disease Association – Australasia.
Skidmore, A. (2008). Aquarium Systems – Not Just for Fish.
Proceedings of the ARAZPA conference, Taronga Zoo, Australia.
Spindler, R. The role of science in conservation. Proceedings
ARAZPA March 2008, Taronga Conservation Society,
Conference. Sydney.
TCSA Marine Mammals Keepers Advanced Animal Learning
Seminar. Marine Mammals Keepers Annual Conference
ARAZPA, Taronga Zoo.
Vinette Herrin, K (2007) Stifle osteochondritis dissecans in sibling
Snow Leopards. In: Proceedings of the Annual Conference of the
Wildlife Disease Association, Australasian Section.
Vogelnest, L (2008) Chapter 9: The Veterinarian’s Role in
the rescue, treatment, rehabilitation and release of wildlife.
In: Proceedings 371: Wildlife. Post-graduate Foundation in
Veterinary Science, University of Sydney. pp129-147.
Vogelnest, L (2008) Chapter 10: Emergency care of
Australian native wildlife. In: Proceedings 371: Wildlife. Postgraduate Foundation in Veterinary Science, University of
Sydney. pp151-185.
Willemsen, M. (2008) Behavioural Enrichment and
Accreditation Requirements Proceedings of ARAZPA Annual
Conference, March 2008, Taronga Conservation Society, Sydney.
Bunn, C. and Woods, R. 2008 Zoos and their participation in
disease surveillance. Proceedings ARAZPA Conference, March
2008, Taronga Conservation Society, Sydney.
Woods, R. and Bunn C. (2007) The Wild West – The Australian
Wildlife Health Network. Proceedings Wildlife Disease
Association (Australasian section) Annual Conference Sept
2007. Dryandra, WA.
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Woods, R., Haynes L. and Bunn C. (2007) Esperance Wild
Bird Mortality Event. Proceedings Wildlife Disease Association
(Australasian section) Annual Conference Sept 2007.
Dryandra, WA.
Reports
Hall, L (2007) Australian Bird and Bat Banding Scheme –
Annual Report. Prepared for the Australian Government:
Department of the Environment and Heritage.
Hawkins, M. Nedved, V. and Willemsen, M. Behavioural
aspects of Report on Zoo Conditions: Asian Elephant
Importation Permits for Taronga Zoo to Department of
Environment and Water Resources.
Hawkins, M. Nedved, V. and Willensen, M. Report on Asian
Elephants to NSW Department of Primary Industry.
Hawkins, M. Report on Animal Watch Program to Association
of Zoo Friends (NSW) Volunteers Annual General Meeting.
Rose, K. Regular submissions to the Australian
Veterinary Association and Wildlife Disease Association –
Australasia Quarterly.
Rose, K. Submission to the Quarantine and Biosecurity
Review – High level inquiry into Australia’s biosecurity
status. Our submission focused on existing in gaps existing
in Australia Biosecurity systems relating to wildlife. Roles,
responsibility and adequate resource levels required to achieve
effective wildlife health in Australia were provided in a written
submission and discussed during a face to face interview with
a review panel.
Rose, K. National Collaborative Research Infrastructure
Strategy – Australian Biosecurity Intelligence Network
Investment Plan – Wildlife Chapter.
Rose, K. Amphibian Decline Disease investigation – a
collaborative investigation with James Cook University
SCIRO’s Australian Animal Health Laboratory and Cairns Frog
Hospital – Report submitted to Australian Government of
Environment, Heritage, Water and Arts.
Rose K. 2007. Wildlife Health Investigation Manual, Zoological
Parks Board of NSW, Sydney. (reprint).
Woods, R., D. Obendorf, L. F. Skerratt and P. Whiteley. Woylie
Conservation Research Project – Woylie (Bettongia penicillata)
disease review. A report to the Western Australian Department
of Environment and Conservation. 12 March 2008.
Brochures, Newsletters and Flyers
Bell, E., Neumann, E. ARAZPA Newsletter.
Bishop, N. Fledglings, Supplement to Parrot Society of
Australia Magazine, 8 Editions.
Carroll, L. ARAZPA Newsletter – Backyard to Bush.
Appendix 11
Staff Representation on External Committees
Andrew, P
Member, Avian Sub-committee of the Non-indigenous Animal
Advisory Committee
Chair, ASMP Committee
Member ARAZPA Board
Taxonomy Chair, ZIMS
Bishop, R
Jane Goodall Australia CPRL Fundraising Committee
Brice, S
Member ARAZPA the Animal Data Information Systems
Committee
Document Champion, ZIMS Data Standards
Brown, S
Bryant, B
Convener, ARAZPA Veterinary Specialist Group
Member, Animal Care and Ethics Committee, TCSA
Ciaglia, M
Associate Member, SCAR Expert Group on Seals
Duffy, S
Firestone, K
Member, South-east Forest Spotted-tailed Quoll Working Group
Board of Directors, Society for Conservation Biology –
Australian Section
Chair, Society for Conservation Biology-Australasian section,
Strategic Planning Committee
Member, Society for Conservation Biology, Student Affairs
Committee
Board of Directors, Iridian
Board Member, Mainland Eastern Quoll Management Group
Associate Editor, Pacific Conservation Biology
Member, Molecular Ecology and Evolution Facility (MEEF).
Fuller, M
Central New South Wales Tourism Board. Commenced
February 08
President of the NSW Fauna and Marine Parks Association
Ministerial appointee to the exhibited animal advisory
committee (resigned 14 June 2008)
Garton, W
Central New South Wales Tourism Board. Expired November 07
Gillespie, J
Member, Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby Recovery Committee
NSW DECC
Hare, P. Australia Society Zoo Keeping Newsletter.
Grossfeldt, L
Tate, R. International marine Animals Trainers’ Association
Newsletter – Soundings.
Hall, E
Committee Member, Southern Ocean Seabird Study Association
Harlow, P
Member, IUCN Iguana Specialist Group
Committee Member, Australian Society of Herpetologists
Member, DEC Declining Frogs Working Group
136
Hawkins, M
Member, International Environmental Enrichment Conference
Committee
Secretary, Shape of Enrichment/Shape Regional
Adjunct Senior Lecturer, Charles Sturt University.
Haynes, L
National Avian Influenza in Wild Birds Steering Group (DAFF)
National Wildlife Coordinators General Surveillance Group
(AWHN)
Hogg, C
Member, Australian Mammal Society
Member, Australian & New Zealand Society of MassSpectrometry
Member, ARAZPA Specialist Research Group
Member, The Society of Marine Mammalogy
Member, The Society for Integrative and Comparative Biology
Associate Member, SCAR Expert Group on Seals
Hutchison, B
NSW Representative, Interpretation Australia Association
Executive 2007–2008
Johnson, RSP
Member of Department of Environment and Climate Change,
Animal Care and Ethics Committee
Member of University of Western Sydney, Bachelor of Animal
Science Review Committee
Member of the Unusual and Exotic Pets (SIG) Committee,
Policy Council of the Australian Veterinary Association.
McFadden, M
Member, DEC Corroboree Frog Recovery Team
Member, DEC Declining Frogs Working Group
McReaddie, S
Dubbo City Tourism Association. Commenced January 2008
Meikle, W
TCSA Member, Exhibited Animals Advisory Committee
TCSA Member, Non-indigenous Animal Advisory Committee
TCSA Representative, Biodiversity Research Network Steering
Committee
TCSA representative, Management and Operation Committees,
Australian Wildlife Health Network
Junior Vice Chair, Royal Zoological Society of NSW
Honorary Associate in the Faculty of Veterinary Science,
Member, Animals in the Wild Working Group, Australian Animal
Welfare Strategy
Scientific Member, Animal Ethics Committee TCSA,
Chairperson till Feb 2008
Rogers, T
Director, Australian Marine Mammal Research Centre
Member, Australian Mammal Society
Member, Australian Acoustical Society
Member, Acoustical Society of America
Member, Gowings Whale Research Foundation
Member, The Society of Marine Mammalogy
Rose, K
National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy – 5.8
National Biosecurity Framework: Program Leader, Wildlife
Wildlife Exotic Disease Preparedness Program – Management
Committee
NSW Wildlife Biosecurity Committee
ARAZPA Representative on the Government/Industry Avian
Influenza Working Group
Australian Wildlife Health Network – Operations Committee
Australian Wildlife Health Network – State Co-ordinator
Wild Bird Avian Influenza Working Group
Australian Biosecurity CRC Wildlife Working Group
Adjunct Research Fellow, James Cook University
Spindler, R. E.
Scientific Member, Animal Care and Ethics Committee
Zoological Parks Board NSW
International Advisor, Scientific Council, PróCarnívoros, Brazil
Scientific Advisor, Nickelodeon Television Programs
Lifetime Smithsonian Research Associate
Adjunct Professor, York University
Adjunct Professor, University of Toronto
Adjunct Professor, University of Guelph
Member, International Embryo Transfer Society
Member, Society for the Study of Reproduction
Vinette Herrin K
NSW State Representative, Wildlife Disease Association –
Australasian Section.
Member of the National Zoo Animal Health Reference Group,
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.
Vogelnest, L
Editorial Committee, Clinical Section, Australian Veterinary Journal
Oceania Representative of the American Association of Zoo
Veterinarians, International Committee
Walraven, E
National Oiled Wildlife Response Plan – Australian Maritime
Safety Authority
Carnivore TAG Convenor, ASMP
DEC Little Penguin Recovery Team Member
Member, ARAZPA Board
Chair, ARAZPA Accreditation Program
Member, DEC Wildlife Issues Advisory Panel
West, J
NSW Aquatic Biodiversity Strategy – inter-agency working group
Member NSW Grey Nurse Shark – Recovery Plan Team
Member NSW DPI Australian Shark Attack Summit
Chondrichthyes Scientific Advisory Group
Member International Shark Attack File Committee
Member IUCN, SSC, Shark Specialist Group
Woods, R
Species Survival Commission (SSC) Veterinary Specialists Group
(VSG) of the IUCN
International Wildlife Disease Informatics Working Group (USGS)
National Animal Health Information System (NAHIS) Committee
National wildlife coordinators General Surveillance Group
(AWHN)
National Avian Influenza in Wild Birds Steering Group (DAFF)
Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD) Steering Committee
(Tasmanian DPIW)
Australian Bat Lyssavirus Focus Group (AWHN)
Hunters Focus Group (AWHN)
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Appendix 12
Overseas trips by staff
Cooper, G
Director & Chief Executive
Budapest, Hungary
To attend 62nd WAZA Conference at Budapest Zoo.
July 2007
September 2007
Walraven, E
Senior Curator, Scientific Research and Wildlife Conservation
Nagoya, Japan
To oversee quarantine procedures and plan the introduction of
juvenile male Western Lowland Gorilla to existing Gorilla group
at Nagoya Higashiyama Zoo.
Meikle, W
General Manager, Scientific Research and Wildlife Conservation
Vienna, Austria
To attend the Global Elephant Taxon Advisory Group (TAG)
meeting.
Walraven, E
Senior Curator, Scientific Research and Wildlife Conservation
Warsaw, Poland
To attend the EAZA (European Association of Zoos and
Aquaria) Annual Conference.
Garard, K
Keeper, Life Sciences & Environmental Education
Benidorm, Spain/Basel, Switzerland
To participate in Rhinoceros research and breeding observations.
October 2007
Olsen, D
Jersey, Channel Islands British Isles
To represent the Taronga Conservation Society Australia at the
Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust Summer School in Jersey,
United Kingdom.
Gardiner, L
Unit Supervisor, Life Sciences & Environmental Education
Indianapolis, USA/Ontario, Canada
To attend Elephant Managers Association Conference at
Indianapolis Zoo and to visit elephant facilities at Lion Country
Safari, Ontario.
August 2007
Rogers, T
Research Biologist, AMMRC
Washington DC, USA
To attend the Animal-borne Imaging Symposium held by the
National Geographic Society.
McLellan, A
Senior Keeper, Life Sciences & Environmental Education
Tokyo, Japan
To assist with the introduction of adolescent male Western
Lowland Gorilla previously housed at Taronga Zoo to existing
Gorilla group at Ueno Zoo.
Bryant, B
Senior Veterinarian, Taronga Western Plains Zoo
Sumatra, Indonesia
Visit the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary in Way Kambas to be
introduced to the veterinary health program at the facility.
Lemon, M
Research Assistant, AMMRC
Nyborg, Denmark
To attend the International Conference of the Effects of Noise
on Aquatic Life.
Grossfeldt, L
Nagoya, Japan
To oversee introduction of juvenile male Western Lowland
Gorilla previously housed at Taronga Zoo to the existing Gorilla
group at Nagoya Higashiyama Zoo.
Beaven, M
Senior Keeper, Life Sciences & Environmental Education
Nagoya, Japan
To oversee introduction of juvenile male Western Lowland
Gorilla previously housed at Taronga Zoo to the existing Gorilla
group at Nagoya Higashiyama Zoo.
Nedved, V
Vienna, Austria
To attend and present paper at the 8th International
Conference on Environmental Enrichment in Vienna.
138
Schaap, D
Chiang Mai & Dusit Zoos, Thailand
Accompany two wombats to Dusit Zoo and visit Chiang Mai
Zoo to assist with the treatment of an ill koala.
Portas, T
Veterinarian, Taronga Western Plains Zoo
Tennessee, USA
To attend and present at the American Association of Zoo Vets
Annual conference.
Vogelnest, L
Senior Veterinarian, Taronga Zoo
Florida, USA
To attend and present a paper at the 2007 International
Elephant Conservation & Research Symposium.
December 2007
De Graaff, N
Exhibit Planning Officer, Capital Works & Infrastructure
Beijing, China
To visit Beijing Zoo to inspect parrot facilities and negotiate the
acquisition of Francois Langer for Taronga Zoo.
January 2008
April 2008
McFadden, M
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
To co-facilitate Amphibian Conservation Workshop with
Amphibian Ark.
Spindler, R
Manager, Research and Wildlife Conservation Programs,
Scientific Research & Wildlife Conservation
Auckland, New Zealand
Preparation for the Tasmanian Devil Population Habitat Analysis.
Hulst, F
Veterinarian, Taronga Zoo
Toronto, Canada
To attend the Fourth International Workshop on Ultrasound and
Assisted Reproduction in Elephants, Rhinoceros and Giraffes.
Grossfeldt, L
Paignton, UK
To participate in the formation of a bachelor group of Lowland
Gorilla’s at Paignton Zoo.
Grossfeldt, L
Florida, USA
To represent the Taronga Conservation Society Australia at
the International Gorilla Workshop and deliver a paper on the
recent movement of two Western Lowland Gorillas to Japan.
May 2008
March 2008
Ciaglia, M
Research Assistant, AMMRC
Primavera Station, Western Antarctic Peninsular
Antarctic field trip to conduct research on leopard seals.
Rogers, T
Research Biologist, AMMRC
Primavera Station, Western Antarctic Peninsular
Antarctic field trip to conduct research on leopard seals.
Kettle, M
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
To attend the IAATE conference (International Association of
Aviation Trainers and Presenters) in Amsterdam.
Spindler, R
Manager, Research and Wildlife Conservation Programs,
Scientific Research & Wildlife Conservation
Singapore
Coordinate and facilitate the collection, handling and
transportation of Asian Elephant semen samples from
Singapore Zoo.
June 2008
McFadden, M
Bangkok, Thailand
To co-facilitate Amphibian Conservation Workshop with
Amphibian Ark.
Cooper, G
Director & Chief Executive
Auckland, New Zealand
Attend ARAZPA Board Meeting.
Bishop, N
Trainer, QBE Free Flight Bird Show
Life Sciences & Environmental Education
Qatar, United Arab Emirates
Training Spix’s Macaws for voluntary hormone supplement
therapy and Hyacinth Macaws for free flight at Al Wabra
Wildlife Preservation.
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Appendix 13
Table A – Eeo Target Groups
Benchmark
or Target
2005
2006
2007
2008
50%
47%
48%
48%
51%
2%
0.25%
–
0.5%
2.1%
People Whose Language First Spoken as a Child was not English
20%
0.25%
1%
1%
3%
People with a Disability
12%
0.25%
3%
1.5%
7%
7%
0.25%
1%
0.25%
3.4%
Benchmark
or Target
2005
2006
2007
2008
Women
100
98
100
100
100
Aboriginal People & Torres Strait Islanders
100
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
People Whose Language First Spoken as a Child was not English
100
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
People with a Disability
100
n/a
n/a
n/a
96
People with a Disability Requiring Work-related Adjustment
100
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
EEO Group
Women
Aboriginal People & Torres Strait Islanders
People with a Disability Requiring Work-related Adjustment
Table B – Trends in the Distribution of Eeo Groups
EEO Group
Table C – Commentary on Major Initiatives to Eliminate Discrimination in Employment and
Promote Equal Employment Opportunity
2007/08
Initiative
Outcomes
Aboriginal Employment Strategy
1 Aboriginal Keeper and 2 Education Officers appointed
Diversity and Respect in the Workplace
Training Program
Program developed to enhance communication and understanding of the
principles contained in the TCSA’s Anti-Discrimination and Harassment Free
Workplace Policy, and Equal Employment Opportunity Policy
Advertisement of vacant positions through
multicultural community networks
A range of TCSA vacancies advertised in multicultural community networks/media
EEO Celebrations
International Women’s Day, Harmony Day and NAIDOC Week celebrated in
2007/98 to promote a greater understanding of EEO groups
Indigenous Awareness Program
Management training program continuing at middle management level and
expanded to include senior management
Mentoring Program
Program developed to create future opportunities for mentoring and networking
2008/09
Aboriginal Education Scholarships
Taronga Training Institute Aboriginal Scholarship opportunities identified and provided
Diversity and Respect in the Workplace
Training Program
Training provided organisational-wide to promote Anti-Discrimination, Harassment
Free Workplace and EEO principles and practices
Work Placement Program
In partnership with the Department of Community Services, work placement and
development opportunities provided to highly disadvantaged students to promote
skill development
Life Enrichment Program
Life enrichment program developed for disabled and special needs students to
provide stimulating and educational experiences
Aboriginal Employment Strategy
Aboriginal position/s identified and appointments made, increasing the TCSA’s
workforce profile representation of Aboriginal people
EEO Celebrations
Continued celebration of EEO groups
140
Appendix 14
Senior Executive Service
In October 1991, the New South Wales Government undertook to further enhance the accountability and performance of the
Senior Executive Service. The following sets out details of information now required under Clause 4c(i) of the Annual Reports
(Statutory Bodies) Regulation 1985.
Number of Chief Executive Service (CES)/Senior Executive Service (SES) positions
Level
Total CES/SES
End of Previous Year
Total CES/SES
End of Current Year
Level 1
1
Level 2
3
2
1
1
5
6
Level 3
Level 4
Level 5
Level 6
Level 7
Level 8
CEO under S11A
TOTAL
In the current and previous year, one SES position was filled by a woman.
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Performance Statement
Director and Chief Executive, Mr Guy Cooper
Mr Cooper has overseen the delivery of key Taronga Conservation Society Australia projects and objectives, specifically:
ρρ commencement of the conservation breeding program for the endangered Asian Elephant. In an Australasian first, Taronga
Zoo announced the successful pregnancy of an Asian Elephant – part of the Region’s Cooperative Conservation Program for
this endangered species;
ρρ investment of over $24M of capital and maintenance funding;
ρρ over 1.56M visitors across both Zoos in 2007/08, surpassing agreed NSW Treasury targets; and
ρρ a 13.6% increase in philanthropic fundr.5aising through the Taronga Foundation.
Mr Cooper continued to provide industry direction through his position as Vice President of the Australian Regional Association of
Zoos and Aquaria (ARAZPA), the umbrella organisation for all Zoos and Aquaria in the region.
In a World first, in conjunction with the Berlin Institute of Zoo and Wildlife Research, veterinarians at Taronga Western Plains Zoo
successfully fertilised a female Black Rhinoceros egg for IVF breeding.
The Taronga Conservation Society opened Taronga Zoo’s next Master Plan project, the $54M Great Southern Oceans precinct.
Significant progress has also been made throughout the year on:
ρρ construction of Taronga Zoo’s outer entrance plaza and car park;
ρρ launch of the Taronga Conservation Society Australia, to better reflect the range of conservation, research and education
programs undertaken by Taronga and Taronga Western Plains Zoos;
ρρ the delivery of conservation education programs, with over 104,500 participating in formal education programs delivered by
the zoos;
ρρ the Taronga Training Institute was established, providing a registered training institute for accredited courses in animal studies
; and
ρρ the care of orphaned or injured wildlife with over 1,000 individual animals being treated this year.
Under Mr Cooper’s leadership, the Taronga Conservation Society Australia maintained its strong international reputation for the
care and conservation of wildlife.
Carmel Tebbutt MP
Minister for Climate Change and the Environment
15 September 2008
142
Appendix 15
Senior Staff
Executive
Guy Cooper, LAAI, FAIM –
Hayley Holloway BSc (REM) –
Executive Officer
Human Resources
Bettina Sammut BA, Cert (PR), Grad Cert (HRM) –
General Manager Human Resources
Heather Turner –
Manager Employee and Organisation Development
Sarah Wooldridge, BBus (HRM) –
Manager HR Services
Christine Smith, Dip OHS Mgt –
Manager OHS&E
Life Sciences and Environmental Education
Cameron Kerr BSc(Hons), MCom –
General Manager, LS and EE
John West PSM Dip Aqua –
Manager Operations Life Sciences
Lisa Keen, BA(Hons), GradDipProfComms –
Communications Manager
Paul Maguire, BEd (PE and Sci) –
Manager Education
Scientific Research and Wildlife Conservation
William Meikle, BSc, MSc –
General Manager SR & WC
Erna Walraven, BAppSc, DipParkMgmt –
Senior Curator
Rebecca Spindler, BSc (Hons), PhD. –
Manager Research and Conservation
Tracey Rogers, BSc, DipEd, PhD –
Research Biologist
Taronga Zoo
Larry Vogelnest, BVSc, MVS, MACVSc –
Senior Veterinarian TZ
Benn Bryant, BVSc, MVS –
Senior Veterinarian WPZ
Corporate Services, Finance and Legal
Hunter Rankin, BCom, FCPA –
General Manager Corporate Services, Finance and Legal
Sue Keen, CA –
Finance Manager
Marianne Richards –
Budget and Reporting Manager
Richard Norburn, BSc(Hons) –
Manager Information Technology
Pamela Burgoyne –
Records Manager
Alexander Halliburton, BLA (Hons) –
General Manager Capital Works and Infrastructure
Anthony Andjic, BBuild (Hons), Dip PM –
Manager, Development
Peter Brogan, BBSc MPM –
Acting Manager Development
Michael Poon, BSc (Hon) MSc, MIE, CPEng, MICE –
Manager Contracts
Stephen Bedford –
Manager Facilities
John Inkratas, BE(Civil) –
Manager Asset Maintenance
Marketing, Guest and Commercial Operations
Steven Skarott, BCom –
General Manager, M, GSCO
Brian Vanden Hogen, BSc –
Manager, TZ Operations
Annette Stevens, BCom(Marketing) –
Manager Marketing
Cameron Mowat –
Manager Fundraising and Development
Brent Thomas –
Security Manager
Susan Baker –
Executive Manager Retail
Matthew Fuller –
General Manager, Western Plains Zoo
Trish Crisante –
Manager Commercial Operations
Gary Dawson –
Manager, WPZ Works and Maintenance
Shallon McReaddie –
Public Relations and Promotions Manager
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Appendix 16
Foster’s Australia
Neil’s Glass Service
Stephen White Management
MassMedia Studios
Nestle
Wilson HTM Foundation
Corporate Sponsor
List
Masterfoods Spices Division
Nexon Asia Pacific
Moon Design
NSW Fire Brigades
Estate of the
Late Stanley Collins
Principal Partners
Rova Media
Orica
Estate of the
Late Elizabeth Hale
S C Johnson
Pfizer Animal Health
Estate of the Late Roy Leak
The Classic Safari Company
Pickfords Security
Destruction
Estate of the Late Ruby Price
Pilkingon Glass
OCEANS 100
Members:
Presidential Partners
4D International
Computer Associates’
Hulsboch Design
ING
SAP Australia
St George Bank
Sunrice
Ultimate Media
Supporters
Zoo Friends
Crown Partners
Australian Radio Network
Bing Lee
Boral
ClearView Retirment
Solutions
Advanced Press
Alspec
Aspen Pharmacare
Bayer Health
Burwood Press
Carnival Cruises
Clearwater Filter Systems
Hungry Jack’s
Daikin
Mastercard
DNA Creative
National Geographic Channel
Dubbo Base Hospital –
Orana Pathology Unit
Powerhouse Logistics
Praline chocolates
Nigel Adams &
Rebecca Nyman
Radio 2DU
Stephen & Nanette Ainsworth
Red Carpet Princess
Robert Albert AO RFD RD
Richard Oliver
Royal Australian Mint
Valerie A Bleasel
Signwave
Camilla Boyd
Smith & Nephew
Graham & Charlene Bradley
Stihl
Sir Ron Brierley
Ticketek
Clitheroe Foundation
Troy Laboratories
Michael Cook
Tourism Transport Forum
Anna Crane
Veolia Water Solutions
Steve Crane
Virbac
Ian and Min Darling
VIP Packaging
(formerly Visy Industrial)
Ashley Dawson-Damer
Visy Beverage
(formerly Visy pak pet)
The Denton Family
Gretchen Dechert
Visy Paper
John V Egan
Weston Animal Nutrition
Steve and Linda Fanale
Elam Communications
Weston Cereal
John Forsyth & Ann Verschuer
Eli Lilly
Wet & Forget
Jeremy Garling
Flying Fish Restaurant
Major Donors
Forests NSW
Fujifilm
would like to thank the
following major donors
during 2007/08:
Champion Partners
Hanrob
Bryce Courtenay
Australian Securities
Exchange
Henry Davis York
Girl Guides Association
(NSW)
Nationwide News
Sydney Water
Primary Partners
Centaman Systems
Qantas
The Productive Edge
Compass Group
Creative Digital Technology
Elastic Wit Studios
Ernst & Young
144
Forty Two International
Imation (formerly TDK)
IPS Worldwide
Kelato Animal Health
Kar Mar Pet Supplies
Minter Ellison
Peter and Sue Glasson
Reg Grundy AC OBE &
Joy Chambers
Fiona and David Hancock
Louis Hawke
Angus Hawley
Jessica Hore
Marianne & Hans Hulsbosch
Judy Lee
Sandra and Graham
Humphrey
Maple Brown Foundation
Skipper-Jacobs Charitable
Trust
Richard Humphry AO
Andy & Prue Kennard
Wal & Denise King, Leighton
Holdings Limited
Debbie Molesworth
Helen Molesworth
Geoff and Ros Morgan
& family
Catherine Nesbitt
Anna Russell
Berriman, Helen
Cleary, Shirley
Deborah Thomas
Biggers, Patricia
Clements, Darill
Max Walters AM MBE
Bilios, Lea
Clout, Fay
Peter Young AM
Billens, Nicola
Cochrane, Margaret
Birchmeier, Clint
Cochrane, Marianne
Birchmeier, Esther
Collins, Debbie
Black, Roslynn
Combridge, Lisa
Blair, Marnie
Conder, May
Blanche, Judith
Conroy, Eleanor
Botha, Ingrid
Cook, Anne
Bradley, Gloria
Coombs, Kay
Bradley, Sue
Corbett, Deborah
Bradwell, Pam
Corkery, Amanda
Breden, Marion
Coverdale, Bob
Brennan, Patricia
Cox, Ian
Brennan, Robyn
Crane, Jacqueline
Brines, Marie
Croker, Margaret
Brogan, Nancy
Crutcher, Maggie
Browne, Diana
Daly, Betty
Brown, Ivy
Darroch, Lesley
Bruhl, Harry
Davies, Davie
Brydon, Penni
Davis, Joan
Buda, Carmel
Davis, Mary
Bulman, Margaret
Dawes, Elaine
Burke, Judith
Debenham, Annette
Burton, Carole
Deligny, Annette
Burton, Judy
Dobbin, Alison
Buttrey, David
Dockerill, Robert
Calderon, Barbara
Doherty, Ian
Cameron, Mary
Donley, Ngaire
Capus, Clare
Dowe, Anna
Casey, Anne-Nicole
Downs, June
Caswell, David
Downey, David
Carey, Joseph
Duba, Brigitte
Cator, Rosemary
Doyle, Janne
Chan, Irene
Duffy, Jessica
Chandler, Allan
Dufty, Susan
Chant, Brian
Dunn, Rosemary
Chapman, June
Dunsmore, Pamela
Chenault, Marilyn
Dunstan, Christine
Chesterfield, Charlotte
Durler, Jane
Chiang, Victor
Eddy, Michael
Churchill, Helen
Edwards, Ann Marie
Clatworthy, Alibeth
Edwards, Grae
Appendix 17
Maurice L Newman AC
(NSW) Inc – Active Volunteers
Linda Newton
Abernethy, Wendy
Julie and Damian O’Carrigan
Abrahams, Lesley
The Late Dawn O’Donnell
Gretel Packer
Siimon Reynolds
Rebel Penfold-Russell
& family
Paul and Sandra Salteri
Swan Services Pty Ltd
Anne Turnbull
Richard Warburton AO and
Sue Warburton
Emil and Elizabeth Weber
Taronga Foundation
Governors and Patrons
Maurice L Newman AC
(Chair)
Adams, Sheila
Allen, Sue
Allpass, Joan
Alm, Gillian
Andrews, Leah
Angliss, Jane
Anstee, Wendy
Archbold, Sandra
Armstrong, Margaret
Arnold, Hugh
Arnold Roslyn
Arnott, Marion
Ashby, Kathleen
Ashenden, Judy
Ashford, Jennifer
Nigel Adams
Assenza, Judith
John Armati AM
Attenborough, Donald
Frank Brennan
Attenborough, Elizabeth
Alyce Faye Cleese
Austin, Jean
John Cleese
Collette Dinnigan
Reg Grundy AC OBE
Louis Hawke
Justin Hemmes
Balbi, Wendi
Banzer, Sigrid
Barclay, Philip
Barden, Robert
Barker, Angela
Barron, Ann
Rebecca Hewitt
Barton, Gillian
Baumann, Stella
Lisa Ho
Beaudoin, Thomas
Antonia Kidman
Beckett, Lorraine
Skye Leckie
Beeston, Dinah
Justin Miller
Bell, Robyn
Richard Morecroft
Bennett, Beryl
Don Olney
Bennett, John
Gretel Packer
Bennett, Tony
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Elstein, Jacqueline
Grose, Margaret
Howard, Scott
Lindroos, Loma
Emerton, Marie
Guthrie, Jan
Howes, Sylvia
Lipman, Janette
Faichney, Graham
Guthrie, Robyn
Hromas, Harriet
Lord, Janelle
Farago, Joan
Gutsche, Yvonne
Huckin, Ray
Lord, Pamela
Finch, Elizabeth
Hall, Marjorie
Hunter, Pamela
Loveday, Shellee
Fineout, Dotti
Hall, Sarah
Hurst, Sharon
Lovell, Linda
Flatley, Thomas
Hamill, Brenda
Irons, Chris
Lovie, Robyn
Fletcher, Coralie
Hamilton, Robyne
Irving, Pat
Low, Lynette
Fletcher, Ian
Hamshere, Mike
Iverson, Lynne
Lynton, Anne
Fletcher, Jan
Hardaker, Heather
James, Gloria
McCabe-Vote, Jill
Flynn, Rosemary
Harding, Peter
Jaques, Jocelyn
McCulloch, Edward
Foley, Lauren
Harley, Dale
Jaques, Raymond
MacFarlane, Heather
Forrest, Noeline
Harris, David
Jenkins, Edith
McGregor, Dimity
Forrester, Patricia
Harris, Jill
Jenkins, Jennifer
McIntyre, John
Forrester, Pauline
Harris, Helen
Jennison, Kara
McLachlan, Phillippa
French, Gillian
Hartman, Wendy
Johnston, Sarah
McKay, Jeanette
Friedman, Jeff
Hartmann, Pat
Jones, Anita
Mackie, John
Furney, Jennifer
Harvey, Philip
Jones, Glenda
McNaught, Ora
Gall, Dick
Hattersley, Catherine
Jones, Paulette
McRae, Lynne
Gallagher, Christine
Hawes, Judith
Joseph, Judith Ann
Madden, Maureen
Gallian, Marilyn
Hawkins, Margaret
Kennedy, Caroline
Mather, Elizabeth
Garlick, Jan
Hayden, Linley
Kennedy, Noelene
Mather, John
Gibbs, Annette
Haysom, Deborah
Kennedy, Peter
Mavromatis, Kathleen
Gibbs, Anthony
Heasman, Anne
Kewley, Christopher
Maxwell, Margaret
Gibbs, Pauline
Heeps, Bernadette
Kidd, Helen
Maynard, Ian
Gibbs, Philip
Heggie-Stewart, Nicholette
King, Alan
Mayne, Rachael
Giddings, Joann
Hemsworth, Karen
King, Alison
Mendelsohn, Jacqueline
Giles, Joan
Herodes, Lana
King, George
Mercer, Nancy
Gleeson, Heather
Hess, Anthony
Kinsey, Helen
Merkel, Helen
Gould, Narelle
Hessey Vivienne
Kirkham, Donna
Michael, Vicki
Grady, Marie
Hill, Alan
Laithwaite, David
Mike, Vicki
Granger, Denise
Hill, Kenneth
La Macchia, Rose Marie
Millard, Lorraine
Granger, Kathryn
Hinkley, Judith
Lambert, Gordon
Milner, Elizabeth
Grant, Gail
Hisshion-Okubo, Keiko
Lamont, Jan
Mingaye, Diana
Grant, Ian
Hirst, Adrienne
Lander, Nancy
Mirabello, Joseph
Grant, Jeffrey
Hoare, Patricia
Lander, Neil
Mitchell, Lorraine
Grant, Karen
Hodge, Dinah
Lang, Rhonda
Moir, Patricia
Gray, Georgina
Hodgson, Robyn
Larkins, John
Montz, Louise
Gray, Ross
Hollamby, Bernard
Law, June
Moore, Janet
Greco, Josephine
Holland, Alison
Lawes, Jasmin
More, Diane
Greenwood, Teresa
Hollier, Stephen
Leslie, Anne
Morey, Jean
Greenwood, William
Holmes, Patricia
Levine, Lynne
Morgan, Valda
Grimes, Cheri
Horlock, Jan
Lewis, Pamela
Muir, Louise
Grinrod, Andrew
Hoskins, Susan
Lim, Desiree
Muirhead, Fiona
146
Munro, Vikki
Rauch, Angelina
Spender, Robyn
Watson, Suzanne
Negus, Sharon
Raymond, Jillian
Squire, Ann
Wayling, Margaret
Nevin, Josephine
Reilly, Kate
Stein, Miriam
Webb, Douglas
Nicholas, Pamela
Renouf, Coral
Stephen, Timothy
Weinberg, Benjamin
Nicholls, Hilary
Rheinberger, Joan
Stevenson, Kay
Wells, Katrina
Nicholson, Catherine
Rich, Wendy
Stewart, Leanne
Wenborn, Christine
Nicholson, Robbi
Richardson, Sandy
Stiddard, Christie
Westman, Charlie
Nicol, Karen
Roberts, Hope
Stilwell, Barbara
Westman, Maggie
Noble, Alison
Robertson, Sandra
Storey, Lydia
Whalan, Lana
Norfor, Judith
Robinson, Barbara
Strassberg, Catherine
Whalan, Peter
Oakley, Howard
Rogers, Suzanne
Sturrock, Diane
White, Berman
Oakley, Veronica
Rolfe, Jeannette
Stuzzi, Pauline
White, Veronique
O’Dwyer, Mary
Ronaldson, Jean
Switzer, Joan
Whittington, Jeanette
Oliver, Judy
Rosenfield, James
Taylor, Anne
Wichems, Christine
Orgill, Mary
Rowe, Julie
Teale, Joan
Wilcox, Joan
Orr, Katherine
Rowling, Jeremy
Tennant, Helen
Wildenburg, Kath
Orr, Robin
Russell, Deborah
Teseriero, Michael
Wilkinson, Barbara
Osborn, Jan
Russell, Malcom
Thomas, Magaret
Williams, Dorothy
Owers, David
Ryan, Kristy
Thompson, Jean
Williams, Jesmond
Owers, Ruth
Ryan, Sue
Thorley, Jane
Williamson, Jeanette
Oxford, Craig
Rykmans, Margaret
Timmony, Velella
Williman, Jerry
Pace, Barbara
Sakkas, Katerina
Tink, Valmai
Winston, Patricia
Pack, Barbara
Sakker, Elizabeth
Toluzzi, Anne
Wood, Chris
Parish, Nancy
Saphin, Paul
Trimble, Sue
Wright, Anne
Park, Gail
Savage, Greta
Trompf, Peggy
Wright, Bev
Parker, Hilary
Sarvay, Beverley
Turnbull, Wai Chun (Angela)
Wright, Muriel
Parker, Lyn
Saville, Leonie
Underwood, Joan
Wright, Tom
Parnell, Andrew
Scott, Jean
Vetter, Jordan
Wyld, Frank
Paszkowski, Cecily
Sconce, Rosemary
Verschuer, Marie
Yalg, Ron
Pearce, Barbara
Segal, Catherine
Vicic Copetti, Denis
Young, Colin
Pearce, Maralyn
Sharman, Jayne
Viner, Joan
Young, Val
Petersen, Annette
Shaw, Joan
Vostarek, Susan
Young, Valerie
Peterson, Barbara
Shedden, Darcy Jean
Wackett, Graham
Picone, Kim
Sidiropoulous, Harry
Wadey, Susanne
Pinnington, Lesley
Silverman, Nicola
Waite, Pamela
Plucknett, Rosie
Skingsley, Brian
Walker, Denise
Ponsford, Caroline
Skingsley, Judith
Walker, Margaret
Posthuma, Merieke
Smart, Rosemary
Walker, Peter
Potter, Robin
Smith, Francis
Walker, Sarah
Potts, Beverley
Smith, Sharon
Wall, Tony
Powning, John
Snodgrass, Mary
Walton, Norma
Price, John
Sonal, Liesl
Wardlaw, Ann
Propert, Dorelle
Southerden, June
Watson, Brian
Proweller, Rita
Spence, Patricia
Watson, Ilona
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Appendix 18
Employees by program area, 2006 to 2008
Permanent
Program Area
Temp
Casual
Total
2006
2007
2008
2006
2007
2008
2006
2007
2008
2006
2007
2008
154
153
159
19
24
28
51
47
168
224
224
355
Marketing
30
28
17
8
6
5
74
40
1
112
74
23
HR
10
10
10
1
3
1
4
6
20
15
19
31
Corp Serv
22
26
26
1
2
1
9
7
5
32
35
32
Cap Works
76
76
69
0
9
8
1
0
0
77
85
77
Guest Serv
65
59
69
3
5
2
234
277
215
302
341
286
357
352
350
32
49
45
373
377
409
762
778
804
Life Sciences
TOTAL
Employees by category 2008
(Permanent and temporary staff only)
Appendix 19
Taronga and Taronga Western Plains Zoo
comparison for permanent and temporary staff
Category
2006
2007
2008
4
4
7
Clerical
140
144
118
General
28
32
26
Professional
16
16
14
Services
42
42
56
Technical
3
3
5
Trades
156
160
169
Total
389
401
395
Executive
148
The Taronga Conservation Society Australia published
its Summary of Affairs (as prescribed by the Freedom of
Information Act NSW 1989) in the NSW Government Gazette.
The Board’s complete Statement of Affairs can be obtained
by request writing to the Freedom of Information Coordinator,
PO Box 20, Mosman, NSW 2088.
The Board processed two requests under the provisions of
the Freedom of Information Act during the year with details as
required by section 68 (6) of the Freedom of Information Act
being shown below. The impact of the FOI requirements on the
Board’s activities has been minimal.
FOI Requests
Other
07
Other Personal Personal
08
07
08
New
1
1
–
–
Brought forward
2
1
–
–
Total to be processed
3
2
–
–
Completed
2
2
–
–
Transferred
–
–
–
–
Withdrawn
–
–
–
–
Total processed
2
2
–
–
Unfinished
(carried onto next year)
1
–
–
–
Request: granted in full
1
2
–
–
granted in part
1
–
–
–
refused
–
–
–
–
deferred
–
–
–
–
Appendix 20
27 Actors from Australian drama series, McLeod’s Daughters
& comedian Wil Anderson visit TWPZ
Consultancy Fees Incurred
31 Delegation of Chinese Zoo Directors
No consultancy fees were incurred between 1 July 2007–
30 June 2008
November 2007
Appendix 21
26 Premier Morris Iemma for the Premier’s Reading Challenge
VIP Visits to Taronga and Taronga Western
Plains Zoo
(1 July 2007–30 June 2008)
23 American singer, Smokey Robinson
December 2007
13 American band Crosby, Stills and Nash
23Israeli Ambassador and 12 delegates, Australian wildlife tour
January 2008
July 2007
3Governor General, Major General Michael Jefferies and family
Bhutanese National Parks Service Officers
4 Monks from the Australian Tibetan Institute visit
the Snow Leopards.
4 Family of famous tenor Jose Carreras
9 Junior World Orienteering Champions visit TWPZ
11Choir of Hard Knocks
26 Melissa Doyle, Channel Seven visit TWPZ for the Zoo series
29 Minister for Emergency Services, Nathan Rees visits TWPZ
20 Nova FM Radio celebrities Merrick and Rosso visit TWPZ
February 2008
American Presidential staff member and party of 30 ahead
of APEC
14American TV actress Catherine Morris from ‘Cold Case’
23 American singer, Christina Aguilera
19 Michael Costa, NSW Treasurer attended Go West event
at TWPZ
29USA Ambassador, Robert McCallum accompanied by
AFP Officers
31American singer, Gwen Stefani
19USA TV comedy star, Doris Roberts
March 2008
15 Vietnamese National Assembly members
August 2007
3 American based international act, the Paradiso girls
2Chinese Finance specialists coordinated with Department
of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
19 Australian singer Delta Goodrem and Irish singer
Brian McFadden
3Australian band, ‘Something for Kate’
26 Popular children’s superstar, Dorothy the Dinosaur
9 Canadian delegate APEC visit
28 Heavy metal band, ‘Queens of the Stone Age’
12 Bands Black Sabbath and Pantera
31 American actor, Nicholas Cage and family
13 Bhutanese delegation, Australian wildlife tour
20 Musician Rick Springfield
September 2007
4Lead singer of musical ‘Hair spray’
7APEC – Premier’s protocol coordinated delegate visit
8APEC – Zoo animals taken to Garden island for APEC
spouse event
13Singer, Tori Amos and family
April 2008
18 NSW Minister for Disability Services, Kristina Keneally
29 MTV stars Kim and Chloe Kardashian
May 2008
1 American band, The Foo Fighters
8Tibetan Lama Khenpo Ngawang Dhamchoe visit to bless
Przewalski Horses at TWPZ
26 American band, ‘Draughty’
15 Park Geun-Hye, Former Chairperson of the Ruling Grand
National Party, Republic of Korea
27 Belgium band ‘Goose’
16 Roads and Traffic Authority delegation
October 2007
22Australian actress, Claudia Karven and family
8 British actor, Michael Hall
27 Swedish singer Amelia DePoret
10 NSW Minister for Tourism, Matt Brown visit TWPZ
June
15 Thailand’s Tourism Minister with various delegates from the
Tourism Authority of Thailand
18Iraqi Trade Minister organised via the Department of Prime
Minister & Cabinet
13 American Director of ‘Wolverine’, Ralph Winter
26 Papal delegation (20 pax) as part of
World Youth Day celebrations
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Appendix 22
Ethnic Affairs Priorities Statement – 2007/2008
Objective
Strategies
Achievements – 2007/2008
Program for 2008/2009
Integrate ethnic affairs Ensure all strategic and business
initiatives into all TCSA plans include the impact of cultural
diversity in their planned outcomes
business activities
Strategic redevelopment of Zoo facilities
continues to consider community needs
and access
On-going
Increase the multiIncrease staff training in customer
cultural service
service with a particular focus on
capacity of both zoos cultural diversity
Customer service training redeveloped
to enhance cultural awareness in
communications
Monitor and updated
as required
Concurrent training programs conducted
for zoo volunteers which provide
increased awareness of visitors from
culturally diverse backgrounds
On-going
Visitor surveys conducted at both zoos
On-going program
Maintain a database of staff with
language skills that are prepared to
use this skill within the workplace
Database of all staff at both zoos with
community language skills incorporated
into the Human Resources Management
Information Systems. Information
updated periodically
On-going
Continue to provide broad zoo based
community education programs
with special emphasis on the
ethnic community
Zoo based language programs have been On-going
developed by Education staff targeting
NESB students and overseas students
NESB and ESL schools targeted by the
On-going program
Department of Education Zoo mobile
focusing on regional areas of NSW
and inner city schools. This Zoo Mobile
visited approximately 15,830 students in
2007/2008 of which 10,700 were students
from disadvantaged schools, where
student, for various reasons, are unable to
experience a visit at Taronga Zoo
St George Foundation Zoo mobile visited
On-going program
approximately 16,850 people during 2007/
2008 which also included 8,200 students
from disadvantaged schools, where
students, for various reasons, are unable to
experience a visit to Taronga Zoo
150
The DET Zoo mobile delivered the
Aboriginal “Animals of the Dreaming”
outreach program to 5,450 students
On-going program
Provide visitor information through
foreign language interpretation
guides (currently provided in
Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Spanish,
Vietnamese, German, and French)
Surveys conducted to determine
visitor needs
On-going program
Provide interpretive and directional
signs and educational graphics which
are more pictorial in nature
Continued upgrade of directional signage, On-going program
and maintenance of interpretive signage.
Installation of visually inspiring new
graphics (eg Great Southern Oceans and
‘Take Action’ pictograms)
Objective
Promote the zoos
and the services
of the TCSA within
ethnic communities
Strategies
Increase management awareness of
cultural difference in staff
Management training program continuing On-going program
at middle management level and
expanded to include senior management
Target visitors of overseas origin
In accordance with Premier’s Department On-going program
through foreign language publications Guidelines, the TCSA continues its
and ethnic print/broadcast media
commitment to expending 7.5% of
its advertising budget on advertising
the TCSA’s services throughout the
ethnic community
Taronga Zoo Tourism targets groups and
independent travellers from all overseas
countries via sales missions to in-market
tour operators, advertising, and promotions.
Zoo Education targets in bound student
On-going program
travel organisations including JTB, Kintestu,
Jalpak, and foreign language schools
Taronga Zoo received significant
media exposure through SBS Radio
and Television
On-going program to
ensure access for all
ethnic media
Quarterly PR media mailout included
ethnic/community press and
broadcast media
On-going program
will continue in
accordance with
requests received
PR department at both zoos
hosted various media teams from
foreign countries
On-going program
Targeted promotional activities
The TCSA supported ethnic communities On-going program
throughout the year with free entry
passes in relation to fundraising activities
Continue to provide opportunities
through the TCSA’s work experience
program particularly for people from
non-English speaking backgrounds
School student work experience program On-going program
continues to deliver opportunities to
significant numbers of non-English
speaking background students
Providing policies in accordance with
the Multiculturalism Act 2000 eg Holy
Days Religious Duty Policy
Religious Duty Policy reviewed and
updated in 2008
International volunteer keeper
program allowing students and
Keepers to work in Australia
33 international students participated in On-going
the volunteer program during 2007/2008
Continuing
development of
TCSA Intranet
To provide and disseminate
information on EAPS
TCSA EAPS placed on Intranet to ensure Updated annually
staff accessibility
Ensure TCSA
recruitment activities
support EAPS
Ensure all TCSA offers of employment Condition included in offers of
include a condition requiring
employment made (in accordance with
employees to agree to support values Circular No. 2008-02)
of cultural diversity, equity and ethical
practice, and a healthy, safe and fair
workplace
On-going
Ensure a range of vacant positions
at both zoos are made known to a
selection of organisations with multicultural community reach
On-going
Promote respect
and accommodate
cultural difference
amongst TCSA staff
A range of zoo vacancies directly
advertised with several multi-cultural
organisations
On-going
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Objective
Strategies
Promote
understanding
of multi-cultural
communities
Provide opportunities to increase
understanding of and experience
multi-cultural communities
Organisational-wide Harmony Day
celebrations
Annually
Interpretive signage/presentations
On-going
delivered to increase awareness of
conservation and environmental challenges
in home countries of multi-cultural
communities (eg Palm Oil harvesting and
Orangutangs, China Bear Rescue, Gorillas/
Chimpanzees and bush meat)
Appendix 23
The TCSA is committed to providing a fair and equitable
workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity
employer. The functions of the TCSA which support the NSW
Government’s Action Plan for Women, and specifically address
various issues faced by women are:
ρρ Leadership and personal development. During the year,
the TCSA filled a number of management positions with
women. The TCSA’s total female representation at the
SES level is 20%, while the participation rate for women
at middle management and senior management level
remained greater than 50%.
73% of Trainers and Assessors and 72% of students of
the Taronga Training Institute are women. The vocational
education occupation of Taronga Training Institute Trainer
and Assessor is a new mode of employment at the TCSA
which enables qualified staff to apply their specialist skills
to help develop others. The role’s hours of work and less
physically demanding nature may also provide a suitable
employment alternative for female keepers throughout the
various stages of their career.
ρρ Volunteer female representation. 65% of TCSA Volunteers
and 80% of Zoo Friends Volunteers are women.
ρρ Celebrating Women in the Workplace. The TCSA continues
to promote International Women’s Day and celebrate
the significant contribution made by female employees
and volunteers.
ρρ Access to Child Care. Taronga Zoo staff continue to
have access to child care programs held in the Zoo’s
education centre every school holiday period, with access
to this program for children of Zoo staff being financially
subsidised by the TCSA. Other benefits which the TCSA
provides to its employees which may be of particular
interest to women continue to be communicated staff.
ρρ Flexible working arrangements. The TCSA has in place a
number of flexible work arrangements.
ρρ Human Resources Policy Reviews. Policies reviewed in
2007/08 were undertaken with particular attention given
to the specific needs of women in the workforce to ensure
152
they are able to contribute to their full potential and that
any unnecessary systemic barriers are removed.
This year, a Dignity and Respect in the Workplace training
program was developed to enhance communication of
the principles contained in the TCSA’s Anti-Discrimination
and Harassment Free Workplace Policy, and Equal
Employment Opportunity Policy. A Mentoring Program
Policy was also developed to encourage mentoring and
networking opportunities.
ρρ On-going development of the TCSA’s SAP Human
Resources Information System. This continues to
enable the TCSA to undertake sophisticated employee
demographic analysis, and better plan strategies for
ensuring equity for the female workforce.
ρρ Zoo Friends Fellowship Program (2007/2008). During the
year, 64% of Zoo Friends Fellowships were awarded to
women to undertake development activities in their areas
of specialisation.
ρρ Training and Development Support. Over 50% of the
employees sponsored by Zoo Friends to attend the annual
ARAZPA Conference were women.
Strategies for 2008/2009
It is intended that the following actions be undertaken over the
next twelve months to aid in addressing issues for women in
the workplace:
ρρ With the ongoing development of the SAP Human
Resources Information System, the TCSA will continue
to focus on gathering staff profile data, thus enabling the
TCSA to undertake demographic analysis and compare
groups within the TCSA’s workforce. This information
will help determine strategies aimed at achieving a fair
and equitable workplace with the employment profile
representative of those found in the community.
ρρ Continue exploration of alternative recruitment strategies
using the TCSA website and other recruitment mediums
and assessment methods to encourage women to apply
for positions.
ρρ Continue to provide learning and development and
new employment opportunities via the TCSA’s Taronga
Training Institute.
ρρ Continue financial support for female staff to access
training and development programs and to attend the
annual zoo industry conference.
ρρ Maintain information sheet outlining the benefits the TCSA
offers to its employees, some of which may be of particular
interest to women, and continue to ensure these benefits
are made known to all new employees via the TCSA’s
Induction Program.
ρρ Continue to review TCSA Human Resources policies with
particular attention given to the specific needs of women in
the workforce.
ρρ Continue a Leadership Strategy which incorporates
initiatives to encourage women to apply for senior positions.
ρρ Continue to participate in NSW Government led initiatives
for women.
ρρ Continue to ensure the promotion of International Women’s
Day at both Taronga Zoo and Taronga Western Plains Zoos.
Leadership and personnel
Development 2008
Total Female Representation in SES
25%
Total Female Representation in Middle and
Senior Management
55%
Appendix 24
Staff of the Zoological Parks Board of New South Wales
Abra, Lisa
Adams, Rachael
Agnew, Tammy
Albanil, Ovidio
Albert, Simone
Alderson, Darrin
Alexander, Anders
Alexander, Catherine
Alexander, Michael
Almanro, Barry
Altuna, Juan
Anderson, Ian
Anderson, Kathryn
Anderson, Peter
Andjic, Anthony
Andrew, Paul
Angel, Lauren
Angus, Warrick
Apostol, Amadeo
Arcus, Tracey
Armitage, Janet
Armstrong, Charlotte
Armstrong, Claire
Arnold, Elissa
Arnold, Hugh
Arthur, Elizabeth
Asimus, Allen
Astley, Jason
Atwood, Christopher
Azpiazu, Maria
Bainbridge, Helen
Baker, Susan
Bambrick, Rachel
Barden, John
Barker, Thomas
Barlow, Kylie
Barnard, Alli
Barrott, Corey
Bastian, Andrew
Bastian, Matthew
Battaglia, Adam
Beaven, Melissa
Bedford, Stephen
Bell, Emma
Bell, Tamara
Bellette, Laura
Bennett, Samuel
Benoit, Pascale
Berry, Tracey
Bertie, Brett
Bianchi, Claudia
Bignell, Glenn
Birchmeier, Clint
Birrell, Maree
Bishop, Nicholas
Bishop, Rochelle
Blount, Kathleen
Blowes, Stephen
Blue, Jennifer
Bodel, Nikki
Bolivar, Javiera
Bombonato, Elio
Bombonato, Elio Emilio
Bordakiewicz, Marika
Boyd, Suzanna
Boylan, Terrence
Boyle, Nicholas
Bradshaw, Nathan
Brass, Adam
Brett, John
Brett, Lisa
Brice, Sara
Bridge, Catherine
Britt-Lewis, Anthony
Brogan, Roger
Brooks, Timothy
Brown, Karen
Brown, Neil
Brown, Simon
Browning-Jones, Heather
Bruna, Sophia
Bryant, Benn
Bull, Chris
Bulman, Anna
Burchill, Leon
Burgess, Jane
Burgoyne, Pamela
Burke, Steven
Buzas, Richard
Cameron, Fiona
Campbell, Veronica
Canning, Christopher
Capelin, Joshua
Carlaw, Kim
Carmody, Paula
Carr, Phillip
Carroll, Liana
Carroll, Sheryn
Cassidy, Elizabeth
Castle, Amber
Cavanagh, Simon
Chambers, Suzanne
Chan, Colin
Chellingworth, Belinda
Chen, Sean
Chenoweth, Clare
Chin, Rebecca
Chisholm, Ian
Chiu, Leanne
Christie, Emily
Cifuentes, Julia
Clark, Nanette
Clark, Tobias
Clarke, Peta
Clatworthy, Matthew
Clatworthy, Narelle
Clayton, Lindsey
Clayton, Vanessa
Clinch, Pamela
Cluff, Benjamin
Coburn, Elizabeth
Codd, Deanne
Coffey, Michael
Collett, Jesse
Collins, Megan
Collis-Rojas, Bridgette
Combridge, Lisa
Conaghan, Jennifer
Connor, Sarah
Cookson, Anthony
Cooper, Guy
Cooper, Pauline
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Cooper, Wayne
Couch, Jeanette
Coulter, Penny
Counihan, Monique
Couper, Kevin
Crabtree, Lucas
Crawford, Claire
Crisante, Patricia
Crow, Kevin
Croxon, Aimee
Curl, Amy
Cusack, Suzanne
Cveticanin, Lucinda
Dalleywater, Stephen
Dalziel, James
Darcy, Joshua
Dare, Ryan
Darlington, Leanne
Davies, Melanie
Davies, Paul
Davis, John
Davis, Megan
Dawson, Garry
De Britt, Melissa
De Graaff, Nicolas
De Marchi, Emma
de Vos, Nicholas
Dea, Matthew
Deane, Elizabeth
Denton, Sandra
Desai, Raja
D’Ettorre, Adalgisa
Di Giglio, Vanessa
Dickson, Pamela
Dockerill, Robert
Dominique, Diane
Donnelly, Natalie
Donoghue, Peter
Dorrian, Anthony
Downey, Claudine
Downing, Annie
Drew, Robert
Duffy, Simon
Duncan, Janine
Dunn, Natalie
Dunnett, Angela
Dzang, John
Eade, Kevin
Eaton, James
Eccleston, Matthew
Edwards, Anika
Edwards, Carol
Edwards, Danielle
Edwards, Daryl
154
Edwards, Eve
Elfleet, Diane
Elhindi, Lisa
Elliott, Pamela
Ellis, Carmen
Elton, Samantha
Ensor, Jessica
Epworth, John
Etchells, Tammy
Evans, Wesley
Every, Paul
Fabreschi, Flavio
Faithfull, Simon
Falkenberg, Rosemary
Farquhar, Eleanor
Farquhar, Thomas
Farr, Diane
Farr, Jarrod
Farrar, Lisa
Farrugia, Nicole
Fegan, Christine
Fidler, Laura
Fidock, Michelle
Field, Cyrelle
Finlayson, Brett
Finn, Tracy
Firestone, Karen
Fisher JR, Stephen
Fitzgerald, Nicole
Flanagan, Linette
Fletcher, Eric
Flintoft, Lisa
Fox, Danielle
Fozard, Phillip
Freeman, Wayne
Friederich, Judith
Friedman, Melanie
Frith, Geoffrey
Frize, Lynne
Frost, Matthew
Fuller, Matthew
Gaffney, Yvonne
Garard, Kristy
Gardiner, Linda
Garrett, Emily
Gaylard, Alicia
Gaylard, Vicki
Gee, Brian
Gemmell, Cathlin
Gibb, Kathryn
Gibson, Ben
Giddings, Jessica
Gifford, Annette
Gillespie, Judith
Ginman, Louise
Glass, Edward
Gleen, Wendy
Gleichman, Ian
Goacher, Vicki
Gold, Stephanie
Goodyer, Eugenie
Gordon, Luisa
Gordon, Martin
Gotsch, Leopold
Gowans, Carl
Grainger, Melissa
Gramp, Joel
Grant, Brittany
Grant, Justine
Grant, Mark
Green, Alice
Green, Matthew
Greene, Belinda
Greentree, Caroline
Grima, Mark
Grossfeldt, Louise
Grul, Timothy
Gussoni, Rossana
Guy, Kenneth
Haddock, Joseph
Hadfield, Tamara
Haenga, Reece
Haesler, Debra
Hall, Elizabeth
Hall, Jane Ann
Hall, Madelaine
Hall, Simon
Halliburton, Alexander
Hamilton, Alison
Hamilton-Smith, Malina
Hammon, Arabella
Hampel, Mathias
Hanlon, Nicholas
Hannan, Benjamin
Hannifey, Katie
Hardy, Colin
Hare, Paul
Harlow, Peter
Harper, Dianne
Harrington, Julie
Harris, Courtney
Harris, Geoffrey
Harris, Helen
Harris, Lisa
Harris, Teresa
Hart, Andrew
Hartigan, Ashlie
Hartmann, Lisa
Hasleton, Mark
Hattersley, Kelly
Hawkins, Margaret
Haynes, Leesa
He, Yi
Helmers, Susanna
Hermansyah, Maman
Heslin, Patricia
Hibbard, Christopher
Hill, Helen
Hinton, Mitchell
Hockey, Andrew
Hodges, Wendy
Hoffmann, Terrence
Hollings, Samantha
Holloway, Hayley
Holmes, Genevieve
Holmes, Kate
Holmes, Thomasina
Hopkins, Gillian-Kate
Host, Brendan
Hough, Cordelia
Hudnall, Vicki
Hughes, Bruce
Hughes, Trent
Hulst, Frances
Hume, Kathryn
Humphreys, Kaye
Hutchinson, Linda
Hutchinson, Matthew
Hutchison, Brooke
Hutchison, Kerren
Hutty, Genevieve
Illuzzi, Paola
Inkratas, John
Inkson, Carol
Inkson, John
Isaacs, Oliver
Isaacs, Tristan
Jackson, Anthea
James, Ann-Marie
James, Karen
Jamieson, Nathan
Jenkinson, Todd
Johnson, Robert
Johnson, Tobias
Johnston, Bradd
Johnston, Catherine
Jolly, Victoria
Jones, Bradley
Jones, Fiona
Jones, Jessica
Jones, Kathryn
Jones, Laura
Jones, Peter
Jones, Rebecca
Jones, Regan
Joseph, Haley
Jupp, Rebecca
Jury, Fiona
Katz, Veronika
Keady, Jessica
Keeley, Tamara
Keen, Lisa
Keen, Susan
Keenan, Simone
Kernot, Alessia
Kerr, Cameron
Kettle, Edward
Kettle, Matthew
Kidd, Geoffrey
Killeen, Leonie
Kinsella, Wendy
Kirk, Gregory
Kirkwood, Anthony
Kitching, Paul
Klaassens, Kristie
Klarwein, Jason
Kleinig, Steven
Kolkert, Heidi
Kosak, Selina
Kozlowski, Stuart
Krause, Sherie
Kumar, Ravinder
Kurniawan, Sheley
Laing, Rachel
Landau, Imogen
Lander, Sophie
Langdon, Samantha
Langman, Lloyd
Langton, Emma
Latham, Kerri
Lawless, Tanya
Le, Doan
Leach, Rachel
Lear, Katrina
Leddin, Anton
Lee, Wen Cheng
Lees, Caroline
Leplaw, Gregory
Lewis, Megan
Lewry, Daryl
Licardy, Amber
Liddicoat, Megan
Lindley, Suzanne
Lindsay, Michelle
Line, Owen
Livesey, Claire
Lo, Krystal
Lodge, Robert
Lombe, Christi
Low, Maxwell
Low, Scott
Ludowyk, Simon
Lynne, Jeffrey
Macfie, Simon
MacMaster, Rebecca
MacRae, Michael
Madigan, Sharon
Magee, Karen
Magner, Carolene
Maguire, Paul
Maguire, Sharon
Mair, Veronica
Male, Sarah
Manaros, Charn
Mance, Jennifer
Mansell, Sarah
Mare, Jean
Marr, William
Marshall, Jane
Martin, Alan
Mason, Paul
Mason, Sarah
Matkovics, Richard
Matthews, Farley
Matthews, Shirley
McAuley, Stephen
McCall, Calinda
McCallion, Michael
McCluskey, Joshua
McCool, Colin
McCracken, Stephen
McDonald, Katherine
McDonald, Samuel
McDowall, Phillip
McFadden, Michael
McGill, Danielle
McIntosh, Keith
McKenzie, Bradley
McKenzie, Edwin
McKenzie, Matthew
McKenzie, Tania
McKinlay, Alison
McLachlan, Mitchell
McLean, Neil
McLellan, Amanda
McMonigal, Simone
McNaught, Susan
McReaddie, Shallon
McTackett, Laura
Meikle, William
Melo, Lucy
Mendis, Radhika
Mendis, Shehani
Metcalfe, Paul
Mike, Georgia
Milgate, Jodie-Lee
Miller, Gary
Miller, Lauren
Millgate, Brendan
Milton, Jodie
Milton, Kevin
Minor, Lisbeth
Mitchell, Michael
Mohammed, Arif
Moldrich, Chayna
Monaca, Gina
Monaghan, Adam
Mondon, Sandra
Monsour, Terase
Morgan, Garry
Morris, Amelia
Morris, Ian
Morrison, Peter
Mountfort, Patty
Mowat, Cameron
Mullins, Russell
Murphy, Ben
Murphy, Laura
Murray, Sarah
Nagy, Scott
Nedved, Vera
Nelson-Harcourt, Lesley
Neumann, Elly
Newell, William
Newton, Linda
Nguyen, Hong
Noke, Gemma
Norburn, Richard
North, Emmalene
O’Brien, Frances
O’Connor, Hannah
Olliek, Miriam
Olliek, Sarah
Olliver, Dilan
Olofinsky, Mark
Olsen, Deborah
Onggokusumo, Ricky
Orellana, Daniel
O’Riordan, Mark
Orvad, Catherine
O’Shea, Graham
Owers, Ruth
Oxley, Gillian
Palmer, Christina
Papp, Steven
Parkyn, Karen
Parry, Owen
Parsons, Melanie
Parsons, Todd
Payne, Jeffery
Payne, Rosslyn
Pellatt, Roxanne
Pellow, Melissa
Perry, Laurence
Phillips, Che
Phillips, Susan
Pietens, Belinda
Pilcher, Barbara
Pile, Wendy
Pilon, Georgina
Pomeroy, John
Poon, Michael
Pope, Elizabeth
Porter, Laura
Powell, Justine
Pride, Rebecca
Priest, Simon
Priestley, Terence
Pringle, John
Pritchard, Deborah
Purcell, Dean
Quaass, Laura
Quayle, Mandy
Quine, Heidi
Quinton, Janet
Rainey, Darrelyn
Rankin, Hunter
Rawson, Bernard
Reid, Colin
Reid, Rhonda
Reid, Sonia
Reidpath, Deirdre
Reilly, Andrew
Reilly, Jeffrey
Renwick, Cath
Richards, Marianne
Richards, Natacha
Rideout, Denise
Ridley, Lisa
Ritchie, Zita
Roberts, Collette
Roberts, Emma
Roberts, Tracey
Robinson, Marie
Rollins, Todd
Rose, Karrie
Rutherford, Sandra
Ryan, Matthew
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Appendices
Ryan, Sarah
Salvestro, Simone
Sammut, Bettina
Sanders, James
Sangster, Cheryl
Scalora, Penny
Scannell, Charmaine
Schaap, David
Schaap, Louise
Schaefer, Emma
Schmelitschek, Emily
Schmidt, Allan
Schubert, Lauren
Schulz, Rodolfo
Scott, Philippa
Sedgman, Nichole
Sehlin, Marilyn
Sehlmeier, Annabelle
Seymour, Jack
Shadie, Jason
Shanks, Carisa
Shiels, Michael
Shipway, Brendan
Shqau, Martine
Sicilia, Raul
Simon, Renee
Simpson, Nardi
Sinclair, Paul
Skidmore, Adam
Slavica, Dragana
Slip, David
Small, Lesley
Smith, Alanna
Smith, Bryan
Smith, Christine
Smith, David
Smith, Jannene
Smith, Scott
156
Smithers, Hayley
Snowdon, Michael John
Soden, Joanne
Spindler, Rebecca
Springall, Teresa
Stanley, Renee
Stark, Sharon
Steedman, Anne
Stephenson-Horne, Leanne
Stevens, Annette
Stewart, Sarah
Stewart, Sarah Renee
Stone, Erin
Stoneman, Lorena
Stoneman, Zoe
Strykowski, Julia
Sullivan, Jane
Surland, Elizabeth
Swift, Rosemary
Tamayo, Bobby
Tantini, Michele
Taprasert, Rattana
Tarry, Simon
Tarvey, Laura
Tate, Ryan
Taubert, Cheryl
Tax, Daniel
Taylor, Alison
Taylor, Lorinda
Taylor, Ross
Teague, Kerri
Theodore, Katharina
Theodoropoulos, Connie
Thomas, Brent
Thompson, Jay
Thompson, Susan
Thomson, Stephen
Timm, Judi
Tobias, Gabrielle
Todd, Elli
Todd, Peter
Topham, Philip
Topp, Victoria
Townsden, Warren
Townsend, Shannon
Tranter, Emma
Trosse, Greg
Troy, Michelle
Tucker, William
Turner, Heather
Tweddell, Annika
Twentyman, Amy
Underhill, Ashley
Vanden Hogen, Brian
Varga, Lloyd
Vercoe, Jane
Vial, Bobby-Jo
Vieceli, Jane
Vinette Herrin, Kimberly
Virgona, Gabriel
Vogelnest, Larry
Wadwell, Kerry-Anne
Wagner, Amie
Waldren, Tegan
Walker, Joanne
Walker, Phyllis
Walraven, Erna
Walve, Michael
Watkin, Lang
Watkins, Jacqueline
Watkinson, Gemma
Watson, Barbara
Watts, David
Webster, Janelle
Welch, Emma-Jane
Welch, James
West, John
Weston, Evelyn
Wheeler, Dean
White, Marnie
Wigger, Merryn
Wilkin, David
Will, Phillipa
Willemsen, Madelon
Williams, Jesmond
Williams, Mark
Williams, Phillipa
Willner, Abby
Wilson, Mikaylie
Winslett, Barbara
Withaar, Matthew
Wong, Kingsley
Wood, Julie
Woodbury, Roger
Woods, Rupert
Woodward, Rachael
Wooldridge, Sarah
Wootten, Siobhan
Wright, Lindsay
Wright, Stephen
Wyatt, Melissa-Ann
Xu, Liang
Yao, Melizza
Yasuda, Emi
Yensch, Merryn
Yu, Tantan
Zammit, Renae
Zhu, Yao
Ziliotto, Roger
Zivkovic, Danilo
Glossary
AADAustralian Antarctic Division
BMus
Bachelor of Music
AAZVAmerican Association of Zoo Veterinarians
BRSc
Bachelor of Rural Science
ACCompanion of the Order of Australia
BSc
Bachelor of Science
ACAAssociate of the Institute of Chartered Accountants
BSc (Hons) Bachelor of Science (Honours)
ACTAustralian Capital Territory
Ad Cert
Pers MgmtAdvanced Certificate in Personnel Management
BSc (Eng)
Bachelor of Science (Engineering)
BTP (Hons) Batchelor Town Planning (Honours)
BVSc
Bachelor of Veterinary Science
AERAsian Elephant Rainforest
BVSc (Hons)Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours)
AFAIMAssociate Fellow of the Australian Institute
of Management
CEOChief Executive Officer
AGSRCAAnimal Gene Storage Resource Centre
of Australia
Cert.Bus.
StudCertificate Business Studies
AGLAustralian Gas Light Company
AHRIAustralian Human Resource Institute
CITESConvention for the International Trade in Endangered Species
AM
CPEngChartered Professional Engineer (Australia)
Member of the Order of Australia
AMMRCAustralian Marine Mammal Research Centre
AMSAAustralian Maritime Safety Authority
ANFFSAustralian Native Flora and Fauna Sanctuary
ANUAustralian National University
AOOfficer of the Order of Australia
AQISAustralian Quarantine and Inspection Service
ARAZPAAustralasian Regional Association of Zoological Parks and Aquaria
ARKSAnimal Record Keeping System
CESChief Executive Service
CSIROCommonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation
DEC
Department of Conservation and Environment
DET
Department of Education and Training
Dip
Aquaculture Diploma of Aquaculture
Dip OHS
Mgt
Diploma of Occupational Health and Safety
DipPark
Mngt
Diploma of Park Management
ASAFAustralian Shark Attack File
DSTOThe Defence Science and Technology Organisation
ASMPAustralasian Species Management Program
EEOEqual Employment Opportunity
ASXAustralian Stock Exchange
ESLEnglish as a Second Language
ASZKAustralasian Society of Zoo Keepers
FACVSc
Fellow, Australian College of Veterinary Science
AWHNAustralian Wildlife Health Network
FAICD
Fellow of the Australian Institute of Company
Directors
BA (Comm) Bachelor of Arts (Communications)
FAIM
Fellow of the Australian Institute of Management
BA (Hons) Bachelor of Arts (Honours)
FCA
Fellow of Chartered Accountants
BAppSc
Bachelor of Applied Science
GMQGraduate Management Qualification
BArch
Bachelor of Architecture
GrDip
CommGraduate Diploma Communications
BBus
Bachelor of Business
BCom
Bachelor of Commerce
GradDip
ProfCommGraduate Diploma Professional Communications
BE(Hons)
Bachelor of Engineering (Honours)
GSTGoods and Services Tax
BEc
Bachelor of Economics
Hon
Honourable
BHA
Bachelor of Health Administration
HSC
Higher School Certificate
BA
Bachelor of Arts
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Glossary
HR
Human Resources
PRPublic Relations
IRFInternational Rhinoceros Foundation
QC
Queen’s Counsel
ISISInternational Species Information System
Qld
Queensland
IUCNInternational Union for the Conservation
of Nature
QPWS
Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service
IT Information Technology
IVFIn Vitro Fertilisation
RFDReserve Forces Decoration
RNSRoyal North Shore
IZWRInstitute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin
RSPCARoyal Society for the Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals
JP
Justice of the Peace
SASouth Australia
KEST
Koala and Endangered Species Trust
SAFESaving Animals From Extinction
LAAILicentiate of the Australian Advertising Institute
SAPSystems Analysis and Program Development
MACS
SESSenior Executive Service
Member of the Australian Computer Society
MACVSc
Member of the Australian College of
Veterinary Science
SCAR International Scientific Committee for
Antarctic Research
MRCVS
Member Royal College Veterinary Surgeons
SSCSpecies Survival Commission
MBA
Master of Business Administration
TAFETechnical and Further Education
MBE
Member of the British Empire
TZTaronga Zoo
MBus
Masters of Business
UKUnited Kingdom
MCom
Master of Commerce
US or USAUnited States or United States of America
MEng
Master of Engineering
UVUltra Violet
MFIA
Member of Fundraising Institute of Australia
VICVictoria
MIE
Member of Institution of Engineers Australia
VQCVeterinary Quarantine Centre
MIKE
Monitoring the Illegal Killing of Elephants
WA
Western Australia
MSc
Master of Science
WELL
Workplace, English Language and Literacy
MSDS
Material Safety Data Sheets
WIRESNSW Wildlife Information and Rescue Service
MVS Master of Veterinary Science
WPZ
Western Plains Zoo
WRAPP
Waste Reduction and Purchasing Policy
NaidocNational Aboriginal and Islander Day
Observance Committee
NESBNon-English Speaking Background
NPWSNational Parks and Wildlife Service
NTNorthern Territory
NSWNew South Wales
OHS&EOccupational Health, Safety and Environment
PhD
158
Doctor of Philosophy
YATZYouth at the Zoo
YWCAYoung Women’s Christian Association
ZPB
Zoological Parks Board of New South Wales
Index
AccessIBC
8-9
Senior Staff
143
Employees by Program Area
148
152
Admission Figures
9, 52, 53
Animal Collection Management and Display see
8-9
Life Sciences at Taronga Zoo
19
Management and Activities see
Life Sciences at Western Plains Zoo
22
Nature and Range of Activities
11, 18, 30, 56
Animal Watch and Animal Behavioural Enrichment
26
17, 29, 41, 55
ANZ Conservation Theatre
53
Internal and External Performance Reviews
12-13
Benefits from Management and Strategy Reviews
12-13
Appendices (Contents Page)
119
Assets (Statement of Financial Position)
64
Australian Marine Mammal Research Centre (AMMRC)
31
Australian Registry of Wildlife Health 36
Australian Shark Attack File
31
Australian Wildlife Health Network (AWHN)
Board Members, Committees
35
6-7
Catering Services
53
Chairman’s Report
5
Charter (Mission Statement)
2
Community and Social Responsibilities
54
Conservation and Research Projects
30 - 36
Consultants Fees
149
Consultancies undertaken by the ZPB
128
Consumer Response see
Customer Feedback
61
Corporate Partnerships
Corporate Strategies
45
17, 18, 29, 30,41, 42, 55, 56
Customer Service
61
10
Education Programs
37
Equal Employment Opportunity
140
Ethnic Affairs Priority Statement (EAPS)
152
149
63
Guarantee of Service
61
Guest Services and Visitor Experience
61
Highlights 2007/2008
11
Horticulture
18
Human Resources
57
Industrial Relations
58
Information Technology
51
Investment Performance
98
Land Disposal
98
Liability Management Performance
98
Measures of Performance
Management Improvement Plans
and Achievements
Major Problems and Issues
Major Works in Progress
5, 10
5, 10
5, 10, 26, 27
Marketing and Promotion
46
Media Relations
48-50
Mission Statement
3
Occupational Health, Safety and Environment (OHS&E)
59
Payment of Accounts
98
17, 55-56
Privacy Management
120
Publications 134
Records Management
54
Recycling/ Environmental Programs
Research Projects
59-60
123-126
Retail Services
53
Risk Management 54
Security Services
62
Species Management Programs
Sponsorship
121-122
42, 44-45
Staff Training and Development
57
42-44
Tourism Marketing
46-48
Veterinary Services
23-24
Wildlife Rehabilitation
25
Year in Brief see
Financials
12-13
Visitation
14-15
Zoofari Lodge
Zoo Friends, Association of
53
60, 61,145-147
Management Structure see
Appointed Board and Board Committees
6-7
Taronga
The Zoological
Conservation
ParksSociety
Paper
Printing
This report is printed on the
following paper:
Printer: Southern Colour
Covers: Sovereign Silk
(ISO 14001 Environmental
Accreditation; fibre from
sustainable forests; elemental
chlorine free)
Text pages: Sovereign Offset
Accreditation; fibre from
renewable forests – FSC, PEFC;
elemental chlorine free)
Dust jacket and leader pages:
Curious Translucents Clear
Accreditation; pulp from
commercially managed forests –
FSC, PEFC; elemental chlorine
free
160
Southern Colour is a printing
company committed to improving
resource efficiency and reducing
environmental impact. It is one
of the few companies that has
both ISO 14001 Environmental
accreditation and FSC Chain-OfCustody accreditation. Southern
Colour is also a proud member
of the Greenhouse Challenge, a
joint voluntary initiative between
the national Government and
industry to abate greenhouse gas
emissions.

Annual Report 2008

Transcription

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