Presentation of black swans to Surabaya Zoo (East Java)

29/8/93

Surabaya Zoo in East Java is to receive two pairs of black swans from Western Australia as part of a zoo exchange.

Commerce and Trade Minister Hendy Cowan formally handed the swans to the Indonesian Vice Consul, Mr Otto Sidharto, on behalf of the East Java Government at a ceremony at Perth Zoo today.

The exchange was arranged under the Sister-State/Province relationship between Western Australia and East Java.

"In return, Perth Zoo is to receive two pair of babirusa, a species of pig indigenous to Java," Mr Cowan said.

"This will be the first time these animals have been brought to this country, according to the zoo authorities, and they are expected to arrive early next year.

"This exchange is an example of the friendly relations which are being built upon the Sister-State relationship.  Others are being built across the commercial, cultural and academic spheres.

"Both Perth and Surabaya zoos have done excellent and detailed work in arranging this exchange, and we trust that Surabaya will be as delighted with our gift as we are with theirs.

"The swans are expected to leave for Surabaya within three weeks.  The Department of Commerce and Trade has negotiated with Sempati Air to sponsor the delivery of the swans to Surabaya."

Media contact: Peter Jackson 222 9595