Construction of Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s new Wildlife Hospital is officially
underway, with Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders announcing local
firm David Payne Constructions has been granted the tender for the project.
Mr Saunders joined representatives from Taronga Western Plains Zoo and David
Payne Constructions as the first ground was broken on the project on Monday.
“Just four months ago I stood here at the zoo with the Deputy Premier, Treasurer
and Minister for the Environment to announce $14 million for this project, and it is
great news that things are progressing so quickly,” Mr Saunders said.
“The NSW Nationals are committed to building a stronger regional NSW, and part of
that is ensuring multi-million dollar projects like this are built by local companies
whenever possible.
“Once completed the new Wildlife Hospital will become part of the zoo experience
where guests can see the wonderful veterinary and science teams in action and
learn about the important work they undertake on a daily basis.”
Director Steve Hinks said the project is an exciting step forward for the Zoo.
“We’re really pleased to be working with David Payne Constructions on another
significant project, it follows on from the most recent project of The Waterhole
precinct that has proven to be very popular with our guests,” Mr Hinks said.
“We are very excited for construction work to commence on our new Wildlife
Hospital. The facility will allow us to expand the critical work of our veterinary team in
their care for injured and sick wildlife, as well as the conservation and preventative
health care programs at the Zoo.”
Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s Wildlife Hospital sees more than 600 cases through
its doors annually, and the new purpose-built Wildlife Hospital will dramatically
enhance the zoo’s capacity and capability to respond to wildlife emergencies such as
drought, bushfire and flood.