About AusZoo Guide

Our Story

Founders of AusZoo Guide at Australia Zoo

AusZoo Guide began in 2008 when wildlife enthusiasts Olivia Bennett and Marcus Chen recognized the need for a comprehensive resource dedicated to Australia's remarkable zoos and aquariums. Both having backgrounds in zoology and conservation, they set out to create a platform that would not only showcase these incredible facilities but also promote their conservation efforts.

What started as a simple blog documenting their visits to various wildlife parks across Australia gradually evolved into a full-service consultancy. By 2012, AusZoo Guide had partnered with major zoos in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane to offer specialized tour services and educational programs for visitors from around the world.

Today, our team has grown to include wildlife specialists, conservationists, and tourism experts who share a passion for Australia's unique biodiversity. We've helped over 50,000 visitors experience the best of Australian wildlife through our curated guides and customized itineraries. Our headquarters in Parramatta serves as a hub for our operations across the country, allowing us to maintain close relationships with all the facilities we recommend.

Our Mission & Values

Our Mission

At AusZoo Guide, our mission is to connect people with Australia's extraordinary wildlife through meaningful, educational experiences at the country's premier zoos and aquariums. We believe that personal encounters with animals foster conservation awareness and inspire action to protect biodiversity.

Our Values

Conservation First

We prioritize facilities that demonstrate strong commitments to conservation, research, and ethical animal care.

Education Through Experience

We believe that immersive, hands-on learning creates lasting impressions and deeper understanding of wildlife issues.

Accessibility For All

We strive to make wildlife experiences accessible to visitors of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

Local Community Support

We actively support local communities and indigenous knowledge in wildlife conservation initiatives.

Conservation educational program with children at wildlife sanctuary

Meet Our Wildlife Specialists

Our diverse team brings together expertise in zoology, marine biology, conservation, and tourism to provide unparalleled guidance for your Australian wildlife adventures.

Olivia Bennett

Co-founder & Wildlife Director

With a PhD in Conservation Biology from the University of Melbourne, Olivia has spent over 20 years working with endangered Australian species. Her research on koala populations has influenced conservation policies nationwide, and she maintains close relationships with wildlife parks across the country.

Marcus Chen

Co-founder & Operations Director

Marcus combines his background in marine biology with extensive experience in tourism management. Before co-founding AusZoo Guide, he worked at the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority and helped develop several major aquarium exhibits across Australia.

Jasmine Waru

Indigenous Education Specialist

Jasmine brings invaluable indigenous knowledge to our team, creating educational programs that incorporate traditional understanding of Australian wildlife. Her work bridges cultural heritage with modern conservation approaches at zoos and wildlife sanctuaries.

Dr. Thomas Reid

Veterinary Consultant

As our veterinary consultant, Thomas advises on animal welfare standards at the facilities we recommend. His experience includes directing veterinary services at major wildlife parks and contributing to rehabilitation programs for injured native wildlife.

Our Achievements

Since our founding in 2008, AusZoo Guide has achieved significant milestones in wildlife education and conservation support across Australia.

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Tourism Excellence Award

Recognized three consecutive years (2018-2020) for outstanding contribution to wildlife tourism in Australia

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Conservation Partnerships

Helped raise over $1.2 million for koala habitat preservation through our zoo partnership programs

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Educational Impact

Provided wildlife educational experiences for more than 25,000 school children through our outreach programs

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Global Reach

Assisted visitors from over 60 countries in experiencing Australia's unique wildlife

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Digital Innovation

Developed Australia's first comprehensive zoo and aquarium digital guide app with over 100,000 downloads

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Industry Leadership

Established the annual Australian Wildlife Tourism Forum, now in its 7th year with representatives from all major facilities

What Our Partners Say

"AusZoo Guide has been an invaluable partner for Taronga Zoo. Their deep understanding of wildlife conservation and visitor engagement has helped us reach new audiences and enhance our educational programs. The team's passion for Australian wildlife is truly inspiring."

Katherine Simmons

Director of Education, Taronga Zoo

"The expert guidance from AusZoo has transformed how we present our marine exhibits to the public. Their insights into visitor engagement and educational approaches have significantly increased both attendance and conservation awareness among our guests."

Dr. Michael Nguyen

Head Marine Biologist, SEA LIFE Melbourne

"Working with AusZoo Guide on our indigenous wildlife programs has been a rewarding experience. Their team brings together scientific expertise with cultural sensitivity, creating truly unique educational experiences that honor both our native wildlife and traditional knowledge."

Ella Davidson

Indigenous Program Coordinator, Australia Zoo

Ready to Experience Australia's Wildlife?

Whether you're planning a family vacation, educational trip, or specialized wildlife tour, our team is here to help you create unforgettable experiences at Australia's finest zoos and aquariums.

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