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Taronga Zoo in Mosman has submitted a $77 million proposal to replace its former Sky Safari cable car system. However, Sydney Zoo has strongly opposed this plan, arguing that the upgrade could harm its business by diverting patrons away from the Western Sydney location. 

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Taronga Zoo’s new cable car design would span 1.5 km from the Mosman ferry terminal to the main zoo entrance, offering enhanced views of Sydney Harbour and the zoo grounds. The proposed upgrade, part of the Strategic Plan for 2021 to 2025, would feature larger gondolas with improved accessibility, including capacity for wheelchairs and prams, addressing limitations in the previous model retired in early 2023.

If approved under SSD-46807958, Taronga Zoo expects this cable car revitalisation to be completed by 2025.

Funding Concerns and Economic Impact

Sydney Zoo’s managing director, Jake Burgess, has urged blocking Taronga’s development, arguing that the project relies heavily on public funding, which could give Taronga Zoo an unfair advantage over private competitors.

He suggested that Taronga’s plan violates the NSW competition policy guidelines on “competitive neutrality,” which require publicly funded entities not to compete with private businesses harmfully. 

Mr Burgess warned that if the Sky Safari upgrade proceeds, Sydney Zoo could lose visitation numbers and revenue, potentially leading to job cuts and reduced community programs. He emphasised that while Sydney Zoo prioritises conservation programs and mobile education, Taronga’s upgrade aims to enhance its appeal to tourists.

Sydney Zoo also highlighted concerns about Taronga’s prioritisation of non-conservation attractions, such as themed events, which they believe could detract from conservation. Supporters of Sydney Zoo point out that, unlike Taronga’s $77 million gondola project, Sydney Zoo’s Ferris wheel and other temporary attractions were privately funded and only temporarily in operation.

Conservation and Community Engagement

Taronga Zoo has defended its Sky Safari upgrade to be consistent with its conservation and educational mission. According to Taronga representatives, the modernised cable car experience will integrate conservation-focused audio content within each gondola to educate visitors about wildlife protection.

Taronga officials noted that the zoo, established in 1916 as a not-for-profit organisation, allocates all its revenue toward conservation and animal welfare projects. 

The NSW Government allocated funding for Taronga Zoo improvements as part of its 2022 state budget, covering the Sky Safari project and other developments such as a wildlife hospital and animal habitats. Taronga has highlighted that improved accessibility features will allow more visitors, including those with mobility challenges, to explore the zoo.

Taronga maintains that the Sky Safari, which first opened in 1987 and transported over 20 million visitors until its closure in early 2023, is a vital part of its infrastructure. They argue the upgrade aligns with their goal of creating an engaging and educational experience for all guests while reinforcing their commitment to conservation. 

A History of Rivalry

The clash between Sydney Zoo and Taronga is the latest in a history of rivalry, dating back to 2019, when Sydney Zoo first opened in Eastern Creek. Initial confusion over the name “Sydney Zoo” prompted Taronga to seek clarification, fearing the public might mistake the new facility for Taronga’s iconic Mosman location. 

This rivalry was further highlighted when high-profile visitors like Taylor Swift and Harry Styles visited Sydney Zoo, sparking fan debates about the artist’s choice of zoo. For many, the longstanding Taronga Zoo remains symbolic of Sydney’s heritage, having drawn 1.7 million visitors annually before the pandemic.

Beyond the immediate tourist appeal, the ongoing competition raises questions about funding and conservation, as both zoos strive to balance visitor engagement with wildlife protection. Sydney Zoo’s push to halt Taronga’s new project reflects broader concerns within the zoo industry over equitable competition and the role of public funding.

The Path Forward

As of now, Taronga Zoo’s Sky Safari proposal remains under review by the NSW Department of Planning. Taronga representatives remain optimistic, asserting that the project is designed to secure the zoo’s financial stability and support conservation initiatives. 

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Meanwhile, Sydney Zoo continues to challenge the cable car project, urging NSW authorities to consider the potential economic impact on Western Sydney communities and the private sector before approving.

Published 30-Oct-2024