By Alesha Capone
Zoos Victoria is seeking public feedback on The Sky Safari project planned for Werribee Open Range Zoo, as part of an $83 million expansion of the tourist attraction.
Community consultation has opened on plans for The Sky Safari, a 1.6 kilometre tree-top gondola system of small group cabins that will elevate passengers 30 metres above the zoo.
The Sky Safari will transport up to 1200 people per hour on a 40-minute round trip showcasing views of the zoo savannah, across to the You Yangs, Melbourne and Port Philip Bay.
Feedback received by Zoos Victoria during the community consultation period will be included in an application to be considered by the Minister for Planning.
Zoos Victoria’s webpage says that Werribee Open Range Zoo’s expansion will prioritise animal welfare.
The zoo expansion is expected to create almost 350 jobs, including 90 direct jobs caring for animals and assisting visitors.
Once complete, the expansion is expected to increase the number of visitors at the zoo to more than 1 million every year.
It has been estimated the project will contribute more than $17.8 million annually to the Victorian economy.
The zoo’s expansion plans also include a 400-seat Water Hole Cafe with indoor and outdoor eating areas, providing diners with views of some animals.
The cafe will serve as a prelude to an elephant sanctuary walking loop.
Zoos Victoria’s herd of Asian Elephants will be relocated to Werribee, where they will live in a 22-hectare open range, naturalistic setting.
A new walking trail will guide visitors through an immersive landscape where the elephants roam.
A new carpark with up to 1000 spaces may also be built at Werribee zoo.
Feedback on The Sky Safari can be provided via a survey at: www.zoo.org.au/werribee/have-your-say-sky-safari/ or by emailing WZExpansionConsultation@zoo.org.au if you cannot access the survey.
The deadline for community feedback is Friday, October 15.
