Taronga Zoo Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo to offer two-for-one entry pass on for vaccinations

Next weekend will see Taronga Zoo Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo offer a two-for-one entry pass to anyone who gets a COVID-19 vaccine at walk-in clinics onsite.

NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard, NSW Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor and NSW Minister for Environment James Griffin today collectively advised that families can use the entry pass immediately or any day up until 31st July at either Zoo.

Minister Hazzard stated “we know parents are time poor and if they’ve had to delay a booster shot or their kids’ jabs, this is a great way to get both done and be rewarded.

“Hopefully the excitement of visiting the animals will overcome any needle fears and the initiative helps families get their COVID jabs up to date ahead of school holidays.”

Almost half (48.6%) of all children aged five to 11 in NSW have received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine, and 57.8% of those aged 16 and over have had their booster.

The clinic at Taronga Zoo Sydney will be at the main gates, operating from 9am to 3pm. Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s clinic will run from 9am to midday in the Giraffe room near the main entrance. Both clinics will offer adult and paediatric Pfizer jabs.

With more than 95% of the community in Dubbo double vaccinated, it is important to now get the booster to protect against the harmful effects of COVID-19, Minister Taylor noted “we know there are a number of people waiting to receive their third dose and this is particularly important for older people and those who have chronic health conditions

“For example, if you are aged 70 to 79 and have not had a booster dose you are twice as likely as someone who has received it to end up in hospital or to die if you get COVID-19.”

Minister Griffin said bookings are not necessary; people can step off a bus or ferry to Taronga Zoo Sydney, or park for free at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, walk into the pop-up clinics and get vaccinated.

He added “Taronga has been helping to save and protect vulnerable wildlife for 105 years and now it’s helping us to protect those vulnerable in our community.

“The NSW Government has always looked at different ways to support the vaccination rollout and this is another example. You couldn’t ask for better locations to distract both big kids and small from getting a jab, than to visit two of the most beautiful zoos in the world and have a totally immersive wildlife experience.”

Taronga Conservation Society Australia Chief Executive, Cameron Kerr said all staff are vaccinated and keen to welcome back visitors to a safe setting where they can connect with wildlife.

The walk-in COVID-19 vaccination clinics will operate onsite at Taronga Zoo Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th March.

Lower image: Taronga Zoo Sydney’s Lion Cubs.