Adelaide Zoos members hit the 43,000 mark, with 600 volunteers backing 3000 animals and 250 full-time staff
Adelaide Zoo has to draw on big resources to support creatures such as this pigmy hippo in new lush surrounds.
Zoos SA in its 2016-17 record-breaking year for visitors also reached a record 46,000 members, with 600 volunteers, supporting its 3000 animals and 250 full-time employees at Adelaide and Monarto zoos.
As a conservation charity, Zoos SA relies on this support to fund its vital conservation and breeding programs to save species from extinction. Besides the annual state government grant, corporate sponsorship for the zoos has also returned allowing them to operate on a surplus.
Adelaide Zoo’s Nature’s Playground and the new Lions 360 experience at Monarto Zoo and planned Wild Africa precinct at Monarto will add to the zoos’ attractions.
On top of the rise in admissions income, the 11% increase in membership levels in 2015-16 brought in about $331,000 extra income. The zoos’ education income increased by 9% with new experiences bringing an increase in school visits.
Operating expenditure continues to be well controlled, with initiatives to drive efficiencies and reduce costs. In 2015/16, ZoosSA entered a solar power purchasing agreement with AGL. The solar panels reduced reliance on external electricity by about 20% with electricity costs cut.
Zoos SA’s 600-strong volunteer group get the chance to support activities including guiding and providing information to zoo visitors, enrich the zoo animals’ environment, hosting tours, providing educational support and assisting with zoo events. They also monitor animals with health conditions and can provide keepers with valuable insights into an array of animal behaviours and interactions.
