Perth Zoo's White Rhinoceroses now ready to go on show

24/11/99
Perth Zoo's White Rhinoceroses are now ready to go on show.
Environment Minister Cheryl Edwardes will today welcome the first appearance of the two female Southern White Rhinoceroses in the zoo's African Savannah.
Mrs Edwardes said the two Rhinoceroses, aged three and five, would participate in a breeding program aimed at securing the survival of the sub-species into the 21st century.
"Perth Zoo has completely re-modelled the old rhinoceros enclosure with improved viewing areas and extended night quarters," she said.
"They will eventually be mated with the zoo's 12-year-old male, Memphis".
Mrs Edwardes said the Mate for Memphis Challenge was launched in 1996 and since that time there had been a concerted effort to ensure the long-term future of the Southern White Rhinoceros.
"Perth Zoo is a key member of the Australasian breeding program for the species. The two females were part of a total airlift of 12 animals from managed herds in Kruger National Park in South Africa."
Today's appearance of the female rhinoceros was also enhanced by the launch of the new look Perth Zoo brand and logo which will be seen in all zoo communications.
"The move to the new image was taken following comprehensive market planning and research carried out over an extended period," Mrs Edwardes said.
The slogan: 'Perth Zoo - the Great Escape' has been added, which portrays a modern zoo where the animals are able to enjoy natural habitats with a real feel of the wild.
"No longer do they have to abide in unnatural concrete and steel exhibits," the Minister said.
"This new concept gives the zoo a dynamic, modern profile in the very competitive recreational market. An advertising campaign built around the Perth Zoo - The Great Escape also will ensure the zoo continues to enjoy record attendances for its busy summer attraction and special event season."
Mrs Edwardes said the arrival of the female rhinos, along with the new image, was important as the Perth Zoo moved towards the new century.
The Minister praised the Western Australian community for their great support of the Mate for Memphis Challenge.
"Seed funding from Challenge Bank, combined with further corporate support and the efforts of thousands of individuals, raised more than $100,000 towards the transportation and quarantine of the two," she said.
"With world-class, open style exhibit zones like the African Savannah, Perth Zoo is on track to be one of the truly great zoos of the world."
Media contact: Carole Cowling 9421 7777