Volunteer passion at the heart of zoo

VOLUNTEERS are an integral part of Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

With more than 150 people listed as Zoo volunteers at the moment, the youngest is just 13 and the eldest is 90 years old.

Along with adult volunteers, TWPZ also runs a Youth at the Zoo program (YATZ) which gives teens aged 12 to 19 years old the opportunity to learn more about how the Zoo operates, develop skills for the future and spend time with like-minded people who share a love for animals and conservation.

Promotions and Public Relations Coordinator at TWPZ Mandy Turner said the only pre-requisite for becoming a Zoo volunteer is to have a “passion for wildlife, conservation or the environment and determination to make a difference”.

Ms Turner also outlined the process for becoming a volunteer at TWPZ.

“Every year the Zoo holds an information session for people interested in becoming a volunteer,” she said.

“If they are still interested, they

What is your role at Taronga Western Plains Zoo (TWPZ) Dubbo?

I am a Duty Officer at Zoofari Lodge and Billabong Camp.

How long have you worked at TWPZ? What is a typical day at the zoo for you?

I get a chance to meet our guests, work alongside incredible staff and assist in organising our accommodation sites.

What is your favourite thing about working at TWPZ? How did you start your journey to doing the job you do at the zoo?

I started out working at Zoofari as a housekeeper.

What is your favourite animal at the zoo? Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of work?

I love drawing, camping and spending time with my kids.

What does Taronga mean to you?

then go through a training program to help equip them with the necessary skills to undertake the various roles of volunteering at the Zoo.”

And unlike other volunteer roles, at the Zoo they are very hands on.

“Our volunteers guide early morning walks, they meet and greet guests and assist with encounters such as the giraffe encounter,” Ms Turner said.

“Some are also involved in food preparation, animal watch, water quality testing, events and overnight and education programs.”

Applications to become a TWPZ volunteer for the November 2019 intake are now open. To apply, visit taronga.org.au or email an expression of interest to volunteer@ zoo.nsw.gov.au

I have worked at the zoo for almost five years. I really enjoy meeting and getting to know our guests. I absolutely love horses, so my favourite animal at the zoo are the Takhi horses and their story of survival. Taronga has been such a valuable place for me to learn, grow and make new friends.