By Esther Lauaki
What’s your connection to Wyndham?
My family and I Iive in Wyndham and I also currently work in Wyndham.
How long have you lived in the area?
41 years. I was born in Werribee.
What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about the conservation of our natural world, and about dogs. It’s even better when my two passions combine.
How long have you served in your role for the Werribee Open Range Zoo?
I have worked at Werribee Zoo for three years and for Zoos Victoria for 15 years.
Tell us briefly how you became involved with the zoo and what your role involves.
I started at Zoo Victoria as a veterinary nurse and moved to keeping due to my love of animal training.
My current role involves training Maremma guardian dogs to protect threatened Eastern barred bandicoots in the wild.
What’s the best part of your role?
The opportunity to be involved in the recovery of a species currently extinct in the wild and, of course, to have dogs as my work colleagues.
What other hats do you wear in the Wyndham community?
I serve on my children’s school council.
What’s the quirkiest thing about you?
I spend my weekends running around agility obstacle courses with my dog for fun.
What do you love about Wyndham?
I love the river and the beach and the green spaces. I love the new café culture and the family facilities.
What would you like to see improved?
Less high density housing.
