15,000 Sydneysiders unite to help Taronga Stand Up #FortheWild
Announcement posted by Taronga Zoo 19 Oct 2016
MEDIA RELEASE
The streets of Sydney came to life with a spectacular parade to celebrate Taronga Zoo’s Centenary year supported by Centenary Presenting Partner ANZ. The parade, hosted by Taronga ambassador Rove McManus, recreated the historical moment 100 years ago, when the animals walked from Moore Park to Taronga Zoo’s new site in Mosman.
“I’m very proud to have been part of this celebration. As a Taronga ambassador, the Zoo’s conservation efforts are very close to my heart,” said Rove McManus, “It was great to see so many Sydneysiders helping Taronga Stand Up For the Wild.”
10 giant animal light sculptures led the parade, followed by over 700 school children in wonderfully wild costumes, and 450 staff and volunteers. They made their way from Hyde Park, down Macquarie Street, to the Opera House for a grand finale performance.
Taronga Zoo’s CEO, Cameron Kerr said: “The Centenary in 2016 has been a cause to reflect on the role of our organisation, the evolution of our activities and our legacy for wildlife for the next 100 years. This evening has allowed us to motivate a new generation to protect wildlife now and into the future. Taronga’s wildlife conservation, education and research efforts are increasing every year and tonight has helped inspire wildlife champions across the globe.”
The illuminated sculptures and the costumes represented the 10 Centenary Legacy species Taronga has made a 10-year commitment to protect and save from extinction. These include the Asian Elephant, Platypus, Sumatran Tiger, Corroboree Frog, Regent Honeyeater, Pangolin, Sun Bear, Greater Bilby, Sumatran Rhino and Marine Turtles.
Australians showed their commitment to Stand Up #ForTheWild, by donating towards Taronga’s Centenary Commitment to continue to protect and save critical species.
Creative Director, Ignatius Jones, said: “Seeing the parade come to life was a wonder to behold. It really was a spectacular display of lights, dancing and music. Considering the parade is for such a terrific cause made it all the more magical!”
For anyone who didn’t attend, it’s not too late to donate $10 to help Taronga ensure the future of these 10 endangered species by visiting:http://taronga.org.au/donateforthewild.
Image Gallery Links
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/fk1k9effvgu272w/AABn7qOIA2sl3BMEd6C-e5nta?dl=0
Video Gallery Links
https://www.dropbox.com/s/alu8zzsg0dculyy/TARONGA%20100%20YEAR%20BIRTHDAY%20PARADE.mp4?dl=0