New appointments announced for Perth Zoo's Zoological Parks Authority Board

New appointments have been announced for Perth Zoo’s Zoological Parks Authority Board to help guide the Zoo's 20-year master plan. 

Marion Fulker AM has been appointed as the new Chair of Perth Zoo's Zoological Parks Authority Board. Fulker is the current Chief Executive of the Committee for Perth, an Adjunct Senior Research Fellow at the University of Western Australia and a board member of Infrastructure Australia.

She is the former Chair of the Conservation and Parks Commission and the Heritage Council of WA, bringing strong knowledge of infrastructure, governance, urban renewal and transport, and is one of the nation's leading experts on the development of cities.

Fulker advised "I am very pleased to be leading the board at an exciting time in Perth Zoo's development. As a place loved by generations of Western Australians, it is time to realise exciting plans for Perth Zoo's future."

In addition, a new member and the reappointment of an existing member has been made to the board.

Megan Keep has been appointed to the board and brings a wealth of philanthropic knowledge. She has more than a decade of experience in fundraising, philanthropy and community relations.

Reappointed board member Dr Harriet Mills is the current Chair of the ZPA's Research Committee and a member of the ZPA Animal Ethics Committee. She has more than 15 years of teaching experience within conservation biology and zoology.

The appointees will oversee the implementation of Perth Zoo's 20-year master plan, which is a once in a generation, long-term redevelopment blueprint. The master plan was kick-started by a $43.5 million investment from the Western Australian Government, including a $30 million election commitment.

WA Environment Minister Reece Whitby notes "with the zoo's 20-year master plan coming to life, it's a pivotal time to welcome these board members and a new chair.

"At its core, Perth Zoo is a conservation agency which works to safeguard endangered species and wild habitats, while simultaneously welcoming more than 700,000 visitors annually for educational and inspiring experiences.

"This makes it a unique and complex commercial conservation attraction, and as a very beloved Western Australian icon, a ZPA Board appointment is a special honour.

"I'd like to congratulate Ms Fulker, Ms Keep and Dr Mills, all of whom bring a wealth of valuable experience and a diverse skill set, and I look forward to seeing the board guiding the zoo through this new, historic growth chapter."

Image courtesy Perth Zoo