Minister Barr: Wild about new international zoo agreement
- Written by ACT Government
Released 10/09/2018
Conservation projects and improving animal welfare are the focus of a new Memorandum of Understanding between the National Zoo & Aquarium, Wellington Zoo and Singapore Wildlife Reserves.
In the first international agreement between the cities signed on home soil, the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) creates an unprecedented level of cooperation and sharing between three wildlife organisations.
Today I attended the MOU signing with National Zoo & Aquarium director Richard Tindale, Mandai Park Holdings Group CEO Mike Barclay and Wellington Zoo Trust CEO Karen Fifield MNZM.
With a focus on animal conservation and environmental security the institutions have agreed to eight key activities, including to:
- cooperate to deliver staff training
- offer staff exchanges
- share information such as animal care manuals, conservation and sustainability processes
- partner in conservation projects of mutual interest
- conduct joint workshops or roadshows to promote animal welfare.
Quotes attributable to Chief Minister Andrew BarrThis MOU is a significant milestone for the National Zoo & Aquarium and reaffirms its position as a world-leading wildlife facility.
The National Zoo and Aquarium this year celebrated 20 years of operation and I have no doubt this partnership will help it attract more visitors and a love of animals in locals and visitors alike.When the National Aquarium opened in 1990 it cared for just 30 species. I look forward to what’s in store for the future.
Earlier this year, the National Zoo introduced its new male cheetah Solo and playmate Zama, a Border Collie – Belgian Malinois.
This unlikely pairing has been a great success for both Solo and the Zoo’s cheetah breeding and preservation program. I’m sure we will see a similar success in this regional partnership.
Quotes attributable to National Zoo & Aquarium director Richard Tindale“We are delighted to be formalising our relationship with two of the world's leading zoos, Singapore Zoo and Wellington Zoo, via this Memorandum of Understanding.
“We look forward to working closely with both institutions on important, future conservation projects as well as the opportunity to share knowledge and skills between our like-minded institutions and staff.”
Quotes attributable to Wellington Zoo Chief Executive Karen Fifield MNZM"We are thrilled to celebrate the city relationships and are committed to deepening our relationship with these two fellow progressive zoos.
"This partnership enables us to put our combined weight behind conservation programs, sustainability initiatives and advancing animal welfare in our zoos."
Quotes attributable to Mandai Park Holdings Group Chief Executive Officer Mike Barclay“We are honoured to have this opportunity to be more closely associated with National Zoo & Aquarium and Wellington Zoo.
“This collaboration will allow us to share our expertise in running open zoo exhibits, to encourage participation in our training programmes and international conferences, and to work together on conservation initiatives throughout Southeast Asia.
“In turn, we look forward to learning best practices from National Zoo & Aquarium and Wellington Zoo with respect to animal welfare, sustainable operations, education programmes and enhancing guest experience.”
The MoU is effective for five years, with a planned annual review.
- Statement ends -
Section: Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases
