Construction has begun on a $2.55 million veterinary facility at Werribee Open Range Zoo to treat sick and injured koalas and other native wildlife.
The facility will be known as the RSPCA Koala Ward, recognising a funding partnership between Zoos Victoria and RSPCA Victoria.
The state government is also providing $84 million in funding to transform the Werribee Zoo into a conservation and education destination.
The Koala Ward – which will include two fully equipped surgery rooms and a neonatal room − will provide wildlife experts with greater resources to respond during future extreme weather and emergency events.
Werribee MP Tim Pallas said: “This new koala ward will help look after sick and injured koalas and other animals and offer visitors a new experience.”
Twelve outdoor recovery zones will be built next to the hospital to house injured koalas and other wildlife during their rehabilitation and a large browse plantation at the zoo will provide a critical food source.
Visitors to the zoo will have the opportunity to explore the veterinary facilities during small-group tours and watch wildlife experts undertaking important conservation work.
The RSPCA Koala Ward is scheduled for completion in mid-2022.
Energy, environment and climate change minister Lily D’Ambrosio said: “The Werribee Open Range Zoo transformation will significantly change the way wildlife is cared for in Victoria’s western regions, as well as allowing visitors to see this care firsthand.”
Zoos Victoria chief executive Dr Jenny Gray described the RSPCA Koala Ward as “world-class”.
RSPCA Victoria chief executive Dr Liz Walker said she would like to thank everyone who has supported development of the RSPCA Koala Ward.
“Made possible by those who generously donated to our bushfire appeal, the RSPCA Koala Ward will notably increase our state’s ability to care for vulnerable wildlife in emergency events,” Dr Walker said.
