'The nature', means what is the enterprise like. You should be able to describe your chosen enterprise in detail. 

TWPZ Dubbo is the largest inland tourist attraction in NSW. The Zoo features a large open range format and is situated on the edge of the western NSW city of Dubbo. 

The enterprise occupies 758.3 ha and was opened in February 1977.  More than 748 animals representing approximately 64 species (of which over 40 species have a threatened status) can be found in the Zoo. The large site means that iconic 'larger' animals are able to be displayed in comfort for educational, cultural and recreational purposes. Exhibits are able to be accessed via private car, organised tours or by bike and cart or walking.  The creative design of animal enclosures means that animals appear to be free ranging even though they are safety secured from the public. The enterprise also has a number of different revenue streams, like visitor accommodation and function centre, tours and encounters,  which helps diversify the business and enhance visitor services. 

Financial Structure

TWPZ  Dubbo is a division of Taronga Conservation Society Australia, a not for profit organisation. Any surplus from Taronga’s commercial activities including admissions, retail, catering and accommodation are reinvested directly into the support, care and conservation of wildlife.

Ownership and Control 

Taronga Conservation Society Australia (Taronga) operates Taronga Zoo in Sydney and TWPZ Dubbo. Taronga is a leader in the fields of conservation, research and environmental education. Taronga is constituted under the Zoological Parks Board Act 1973 as a statutory authority owned by the people of New South Wales (NSW) and administered by the Minister for the Environment and Heritage. Amended legislation in 1992 defined Taronga’s responsibilities in education, conservation, research and recreation.

The Zoological Parks Board Act of 1973 sets out the legislative requirements of Taronga, encompassing the following functions:

• carrying out research and breeding programs for the preservation of endangered species

• carrying out research programs for the conservation and management of other species

• conducting public education and awareness programs about species conservation and management 

• displaying animals for educational, cultural and recreational purposes.

2019 Staff Breakdown  

• Executive Services - 3

• Clerical - 5

• General (Accommodation and Commercial)  - 128

• Professional (including Keepers) - 67

• Services - 82

• Technical - 49

• Trades - 28

Taronga Western Plains Zoo has a permanent work force of 362 staff and a fluctuating seasonal casual work force that is dependent on our peak periods. The casual workforce is mainly made of up of Wait Staff, Guest Experience Officers and Housekeepers – all of these positions are incredibly important for daily operations!

Volunteer Program 

TWPZ Dubbo has over 100 volunteers, performing a wide variety of roles including;

• Tour guiding - including hosting our early morning walks and escorting coach tours around the zoo

• Animal observations – collecting data on animals' interactions, behaviours and breeding for Keepers

• Car park and guest movements – assisting our guest experience teams with guests’ movements around the zoo and on arrival

• Zoo Keeping – assisting our Zoo Keepers to care for TWPZ Dubbo animals by preparing and delivering food, cleaning enclosures, maintaining exhibits and observing the animals.

 Youth at the Zoo (YATZ) 

Taronga Zoo’s Boral 'Youth At The Zoo' program is sponsored by Boral, and is for young people aged 13 to 19 years old who love animals. YATZ is designed to give young people the opportunity to gain knowledge and experience of how zoos work, with a focus on the importance of animal conservation. Currently the Boral YATZ program has 525 active members at both sites - TWPZ Dubbo and Taronga Zoo, Sydney.

TWPZ Dubbo offers unique accommodation experiences from tranquil eco lodges to  African-styled Safari glamping  and camping. 

Accommodation is one of Taronga Western Plains Zoo largest revenue streams. During the 2019/2020 financial year 25,118 guests stayed overnight at the Zoo, enjoying the immersive experiences on offer at Zoofari Lodge, the Savannah Cabins and Billabong Camp. Normally this number is higher (2018/19 – 32,662 guests), however a two month closure from March 25 to 31 May due to Covid 19 lockdown period impacted on the 2019/20 results.

There are  three types of accommodation offerings available at TWPZ Dubbo: 

Zoofari Lodge  

Zoofari Lodge offers an unrivalled in-zoo safari experience with accommodation in unique lodges. This wild escape is inclusive of meals, accommodation, exclusive tours, two-day zoo entry and bike hire. There are two styles of lodges: Ten Animal View Lodges which overlook a vast savannah where giraffes, zebras and rhinos roam, and five Bushland Lodges which are located in nearby native bush. 

The lodges are nestled near the visitor Guest House, where you can have a quiet drink, indulge in an elegant meal, sit with a coffee in the lounge area or take a dip in the saltwater swimming pool. 

Find out more at: https://taronga.org.au/dubbo-zoo/accommodation/zoofari-lodge

Savannah Cabins 

Savannah Cabins offer a stylish and comfortable accomodation option, ideal for a short stay to explore the Zoo, or a longer stay to experience Dubbo and the surrounding region. Guests enjoy views of sprawling natural grassland right on their doorstep in this family friendly retreat that now includes a kids' playground.  There are various combinations of packages available in relation to this accommodation that may include Zoo entry, bike hire, breakfast and dinner options. 

Find out more at: https://taronga.org.au/dubbo-zoo/accommodation/savannah-cabins 

Billabong Camp 

Situated on the Zoo circuit lies Billabong Camp, an immersive adventure that takes care of all the hard work, leaving guests to sit back, relax and enjoy the experience. Overnight guests uncover the secret after-hours life of the Zoo (with the help of Zoo Hosts),  enjoy a tasty Australian barbecue dinner and continental breakfast, and have two days entry to the Zoo. 

Find out more at: https://taronga.org.au/dubbo-zoo/accommodation/billabong-camp

TWPZ Dubbo is a unique event and function venue for the Dubbo region. Located on the outskirts of Dubbo, the Zoo offers three function rooms as well as manicured lawns overlooking the Savannah Lake. The function team specialise in Christmas parties, Weddings, Corporate Events and Conferences and Private Events. 

Social and Corporate events are an important source of revenue for the Zoo. Taronga Western Plains Zoo hosted in excess of 100 events during 2019/20, contributing to approximately 12% of the zoo’s commercial revenue 

Find out more about Function Facilities at the Zoo

The Zoo hosts several events throughout the year, which provide additional sources of revenue for the enterprise. Events include:

• Dubbo Stampede Running Festival 

• Charity Events, e.g. Dream Night - this event provides thousands of special needs children, facing serious health issues or other challenges in their lives, a special night experience at the zoo. Staff and volunteers assist in providing amazing and memorable experiences for all guests. 

• Music Performances

• Mother's Day and Father's Day dining events

• Christmas dining event

• Valentine's Day dining event

Education

Education is one of TWPZ Dubbo's highest priorities. TWPZ Dubbo offers a range of education and learning programs for primary and secondary students through to tertiary and vocational. These programs are delivered on various platforms both onsite, and as outreach programs within the community and increasingly through digital means. 

School Workshops

The Zoo has a dedicated Education Officer who specialises in  developing and delivering cutting edge programs linked to curriculum and syllabus outcomes across subjects including Science, Geography, sustainability as well as other key learning areas. Programs range from Early Stage 1 to Stage 6, and take place in the Amarti Education Centre, as well as in various locations around the grounds. Students have the unique opportunity to get up close to a range of animals. Increasingly TWPZ Dubbo in collaboration with Taronga Zoo Sydney, are developing digital education and outreach programs to connect with students and provide learning opportunities linked to the curriculum. In the 2019/2020 financial year student participation in these program in both zoos grew by 174%. 

ZooSnooz

ZooSnooz is the ultimate overnight excursion available to school students 5-18 years. Set in the picturesque grounds of Billabong Campo, ZooSnooz provides an exciting Aussie bush camping experience for up to 90 people including adults. Through evening and morning walks students learn about the care and conservation of native animals and those from around the globe. 

Vacation Care - 'Zoo Adventures'

The 'Zoo Adventures' program is a interactive school holidays program that runs for students aged  5-12 years old. Program participants take part in daily missions, participate in craft activities and meet the Zoo keepers. 

Vocational Education 

School Work Experience Program

TWPZ Dubbo offers school work experience opportunities for students in Years 10-12 who are interested in pursuing a career in zoo keeping and animal care. The program runs for one week and students have the opportunity to work with a range of animals and keepers across multiple divisions. 

Certificate Courses

TWPZ Dubbo offers students 18 years and older the opportunity to complete a Certificate II in Animal Studies and a Certificate III in Captive Animals. Through a combination of theory and practical sessions, students develop the knowledge and skills to perform the essential duties of a keeper in the animal care industry. Graduates of the Certificate III can seek employment as a zoo keeper, or animal keeper in aquariums and wildlife parks. 

Find out more about Education Programs at the Zoo