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Taronga Zoo Farewells Iconic Residents

Published on: February 2025

Record: HANSARD-1323879322-150359

Taronga Zoo Farewells Iconic Residents

Ms FELICITY WILSON (North Shore)

—Next month will mark a bitter-sweet milestone for Mosman's Taronga Zoo, as it bids farewell to two of its beloved residents, Tang Mo and Pak Boon. The pair mark the last two elephants at Taronga, which has housed elephants for over 100 years. Starting this Saturday, Taronga will be holding farewell "ele-brations", complete with elephant crafts, zookeeper talks, Thai food, and a farewell message wall. Tang Mo and Pak Boon will be relocating to their new home in South Australia's Monarto Safari Park. After spending over 20 years at Taronga, these two have become cherished members of the zoo family and will be missed by staff and visitors alike. Their relocation will strengthen conservation efforts by expanding the Monarto herd, one of the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. Taronga Zoo's international success is thanks to a huge team of fantastic individuals, and I acknowledge everyone behind this thoughtful transition. I especially commend Exotics Manager, Mandy Everett and the dedicated zookeepers behind the elephants' transition. As Taronga prepares to say goodbye, I thank Tang Mo and Pak Boon for the joy they've brought to my community and wish them all the best in their new home.