New $10.2 million precinct at Taronga Western Plains Zoo more than halfway to completion

Construction of Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s new $10.2 million precinct, The Waterhole, is more than halfway to completion.

Jointly funded with the NSW Government as part of the Zoo’s 10 year Visitor Experience Plan, the project will see the redevelopment of the Zoo's current kiosk area located at the midway point of the attraction's circuit to ultimately include café, play area and animal exhibits.

A number of key elements have been constructed to date including rammed earth walls, with structural steel aspects and roofing now underway. The precinct’s Meerkat and herd species habitats, including the behind-the-scenes areas, are almost complete. Specialists are installing the water play system.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo Director, Steve Hinks advises “the construction site has been a hive of activity for the past six months and guests can now see the café, exhibits and water play area starting to take shape.”

The Waterhole precinct is another exciting redevelopment taking place at the Zoo, following the opening of Lion Pride Lands and Wild Herds over the past two years.

The next stage of the project is to transport seven established palm trees to the Zoo from Bracken House in Dubbo, which will be transplanted into the Waterhole site.

Hinks added “these palms are over 40 years old and have been donated from a future construction site at Bracken House. The trees will continue their life in the Zoo grounds, which is a great result for both Bracken House and the Zoo.

“With the severe drought continuing the decision has been made to reduce landscaping significantly around the new precinct. Whilst over 50 established trees will still be planted, the majority of the smaller shrubs and grasses will be put on hold until conditions improve.”

“The water play area will be a real highlight of the overall Zoo experience and is designed to be a unique play space that kids can cool off in during the warmer months, or play in with no water in the winter months.”

The water play area operates on a closed reticulated system that continually retreats the water in order to be efficient with water usage.

Construction of The Waterhole precinct is due to be completed in April 2020.