As part of the $88 million zoo upgrade, Environment and Climate Action Minister Lily D'Ambrosio presented a perimeter fencing prototype for placement around the habitat of the Asian elephants.
Extending five kilometres, the new fencing will be engineered to keep the new Asian herd of elephants secure and safe. It will need to withstand the force and weight of the full adult herd and will be created through the use of repurposed building materials which have been donated by numerous government agencies, ranging from VicTrack to many of Melbourne's commercial companies.
In addition to boosting economic activity and creating an estimated 350 jobs encompassing 90 positions focused on animal care, the expansion programme will not only provide a safe environment for the elephants but also further improve the experience for visitors, according to CEO of Zoos Victoria, Jenny Gray. She added:
“The purpose-built Elephant Trail at Werribee Open Range Zoo will be the gold standard in animal welfare, with the herd able to roam across 21 hectares."
Brochure printing campaigns have often helped to promote major local attractions like the Werribee Open Range Zoo.
It is anticipated the latest redevelopment work at the zoo will add about $17.8m to the State's annual economy, once the upgrade is finally completed and ready for the new herd of elephants to take up residence in 2024.