From behind-the-scenes activities to safari tents, young people in out-of-home care experienced a magical night of learning and fun at Taronga Zoo.
Image: A collage of two photos, one showing a tiger and the other a group of young people listening to the Zookeeper's giraffe talk, in front of the giraffe enclosure at Taronga Zoo.
Recently, 11 of our young people had the exciting opportunity to take part in the Roar and Snore experience at Taronga Zoo. This was made possible through a partnership initiated by Lorna Genoud, Education Consultant, between the Life Without Barriers Education Team and Taronga Conservation Society Australia, with support from a Department of Communities and Justice School Holiday Grant.
Image: Young people and a staff member looking for a crocodile.
The experience offered hands-on and behind-the-scenes activities with the zookeepers, giving eager animal lovers the chance to learn about wildlife. This was a rare opportunity to step into the world of conservation and animal care.
"My favourite animal we saw was a water buffalo. I liked the bit when it stomped," said one young person.
"I enjoyed the walks around the zoo when the zookeepers were explaining each animal to us," another young person shared.
Image: A giraffe standing in its enclosure, looking at the camera. Behind it there are another two giraffes.
Seals were also a clear crowd favourite.
"My favourite animal we saw was the seals. Why? Because they were so cute and the best bit was how the little one waved at us." another young person said.
"I was disappointed that we didn’t get to see the red panda very much, but I did enjoy watching the seals doing their tricks, especially the baby," another reflected.
Image: A group of young people watching the seals being fed at the zoo.
The overnight element of Roar and Snore added another layer of excitement. Young people stayed in safari tents, right in the heart of the zoo, with Sydney Harbour as their night time backdrop.
"I loved the tents. I loved listening to the animals, that's what I can tell you. I would stay there if I could," one participant said.
"I liked going on the night walk and seeing the sun bear still up at 8:30 at night, which I thought was pretty funny," another added.
Image: Young people looking at the view of Sydney harbour from Taronga Zoo.
"My favourite bit was the safari tents and lying in bed listening to the tigers roaring." One young person shared, perfectly summing up the magic of the night.
Experiences like this do more than introduce young people to wildlife. They open doors to new perspectives, spark curiosity, and create lasting memories. For many of our young people, it was a chance to try something completely new, learn about animals and conservation, and share moments of wonder with their peers.
"What stood out the most was watching how beautifully supportive the young people were of one another, how inquisitive they were, and how confidently they stepped into new experiences together. It was incredibly moving to witness," said Lorna.
Image: Staff members Annalise, Lorna, Bianca, Merna, and Sejla standing as a group and smiling at the camera. Behind them is a view of Sydney Harbour.
Thank you to Taronga Zoo and the Department of Communities and Justice for supporting our young people to experience Roar and Snore, an adventure that inspired, delighted, and created memories they will carry with them for years to come.
