2009-10 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT
Contents
02 About Zoos Victoria 03 Our Vision and Mission 04 Becoming the World’s Leading Zoo-based Conservation Organisation 05 Chairman’s Message 06 CEO’s Message 07 Major Highlights for 2009-10 09 Financial Summary 12 Melbourne Zoo 14 Healesville Sanctuary 16 Werribee Open Range Zoo 18 Wildlife Conservation and Science 20 Visitor and Community Development 22 Community Inclusiveness 24 Zoos Victoria Foundation 26 Our Sustainable Operations 28 Our People 32 Key Performance Indicators 33 Corporate Governance and Other Disclosure 34 Board Profiles 40 Publications 41 Conference Proceedings and Presentations 42 Our Partners and Supporters 43 Financial Report ABOUT Zoos Victoria is an important social, economic and cultural asset for Victorians. Each of our three great ZOOS VICTORIA zoos – Melbourne Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary and Werribee Open Range Zoo – offers unique and exciting wildlife and conservation experiences.
Where Our Visitors Come From Our total collection includes more than Friends of the Zoos Ltd 2,700 animals ranging from popular native Friends of the Zoos Ltd is an independent, Australian animals to rare and threatened non-profit organisation established species from both here and overseas. to support Zoos Victoria and wildlife We are one of the largest paying attractions conservation. in Victoria, with more than 1.7 million visitors FOTZ Ltd has been operating for 30 years coming to our zoos each year. About 11 per providing financial and in-kind support to cent of our visitors are from overseas with Zoos Victoria. Healesville Sanctuary attracting the highest proportion of international tourists. FOTZ Ltd provides vital non-financial support through volunteer workers. Some 160,000 students visit a Zoos Victoria FOTZ volunteers are active across all Zoos property each year, making it one of the Victoria properties as guides, information largest non-classroom educators in the State. officers and general supporters for Zoo We aim to be the leading authority on captive visitors and staff. animals and a major facilitator of wildlife knowledge leading to conservation action. Zoos Victoria thanks FOTZ for their continuing commitment, dedication and Zoos Victoria is internationally recognised for support for the three zoos and wildlife its veterinary, animal husbandry, research conservation more generally. and horticultural expertise. We are the only State teaching facility (in association with Zoos Victoria Friends of the Zoos the University of Melbourne) for wildlife Members veterinary science. Zoos Victoria offers membership to We are continually improving existing Melbourne Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary and infrastructure and building new exhibits to Werribee Open Range Zoo. As of 1 July meet visitor needs while providing world- 2009 Zoos Victoria became responsible class animal care. for the management of membership. A key focus of 2010-11 will be to develop Our Three Zoos a Membership Business Plan to grow Melbourne Zoo is a ‘window to the world’ membership and improve retention rates. of wildlife that provides an immersive animal As of 30 June 2010, 84,549 Victorians are experience and encourages people to act to Zoos Victoria Friends of the Zoos members protect and enhance the world’s wildlife and enjoying unlimited access to our three zoos, habitats. free access to some interstate zoos, as Healesville Sanctuary showcases the well as discounts and the latest information wonder of the Australian bush and its wildlife, about zoo happenings in the quarterly incorporating aspects of Indigenous culture. magazine ‘Zoo News’. Werribee Open Range Zoo provides an open-range adventure featuring grassland How to Become a Zoos Victoria Friends of the Zoos Member animals of Africa, North America, Asia and Australia. To become a member visit zoo.org.au/fotz call 9285 9325 or visit the membership office Zoos Victoria’s Animal Collection beside the front entrance at Melbourne Zoo. Animal Type Number of Specimens 30 June 2010 Fish 78 Amphibian 398 Reptile 499 Bird 1058 Mammal 744 Total 2777
* Not including invertebrate collection 2 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 VISION AND MISSION
Our Vision To be the world’s leading zoo-based conservation organisation.
Our Mission To galvanise communities to commit to the conservation of wildlife and wild places by connecting people and wildlife by: Opening the door to exceptional wildlife encounters that reach beyond the boundaries of our properties Leading the way by communicating and demonstrating the role of conservation and research in all we do Catalysing action through inspiring experiences that motivate participation leading to conservation and sustainability outcomes. Becoming the world’s leading zoo-based conservation organiSation
In 2009, Zoos Victoria adopted 02 Animals a new strategic direction to We will ensure that every animal in our transform the organisation collection has conservation relevance. over 20 years into the We will strive to be a world leader in animal care and wellbeing and actively advocate world’s leading zoo-based for the conservation of wildlife. conservation organisation. Zoos Victoria is embracing a much larger 03 Visitors and more active role in conservation. We will provide innovative wildlife We will specialise in the captive holding recreation and learning experiences that and management of threatened species inspire visitors to take conservation actions and in influencing behaviour changes that make a measurable and positive within communities to support wild difference. populations and their habitats. To achieve this vision we have identified 04 People five key action areas: We will support our staff’s development to ensure they and the organisation as a 01 Conservation whole can transform Zoos Victoria into a Our focus will be on wildlife conservation zoo-based conservation organisation. and community conservation. We will work to conserve threatened species in Australia 05 Financial Sustainability and broad-based habitat conservation We will ensure the long-term financial in our international priority regions, and sustainability of all our operations to we will harness public action behind our improve the value of our assets so we conservation effort. can deliver an increased investment in conservation.
4 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 Chairman’s message
Becoming a zoo-based conservation The Beads for Wildlife program at Werribee organisation involves Zoos Victoria living Open Range Zoo takes beads made by up to its conservation and sustainability women in the Melako Conservancy in Kenya principles across all the myriad aspects of and sells them in zoo retail outlets. This has zoo operations. earned the women $50,000 in alternative revenue so far, reducing their reliance on One year into our 20-year transformation domestic livestock which compete with this exciting strategic shift has already native wildlife for food and water. begun to deliver results. From the way we select and care for our animals, to Sustainability extends to our finances and the exhibits we open, our management we are working hard to build the long-term of the bottom line and our contribution to financial sustainability of all our operations conservation efforts here and abroad. so we can maintain and improve the value of assets and make meaningful investments in Acting locally, Zoos Victoria is expanding conservation. its capacity to save priority threatened species by bolstering recovery programs for This financial model focuses on the Tasmanian Devils at Healesville Sanctuary performance of individual business units where an ‘insurance’ population is being with surpluses invested in conservation, established to support the disease plagued staff development and asset renewal. wild-born animals in Tasmania. Our zoos serve as ‘windows’ to the conservation work of the organisation, Healesville Sanctuary is making real strides and in this way, as a source of revenue to towards saving the Helmeted Honeyeater. support these vital efforts. This year, a third independent colony was released back into the wild in a real While our primary objective is conservation, turnaround in the survival saga of Victoria’s we are also keen to build lasting native bird-emblem. relationships with local communities and provide opportunities for Indigenous people. Globally our efforts are also bearing fruits A major thrust for 2010 will be the launch of in Papua New Guinea, South-east Asia a Reconciliation Action Plan that will see a and Sub-saharan Africa and in 2009-10 we renewed focus on opportunities to celebrate extended our international conservation Indigenous culture at all three properties. effort with an additional two programs. A major focus will be putting into action Zoos Victoria is putting into action our the development plans for our three zoos commitment to becoming a true leader and that will deliver even greater conservation Australian authority on captive animals, the outcomes that will enable us to be major facilitator of wildlife knowledge leading recognised as a leading conservation to broader conservation action. organisation. Becoming a zoo-based conservation We have made important inroads in our organisation is also about inspiring first year of a 20-year strategy, and will people to take action and making it easy keep building on our strong start to be a for individuals to get involved. Our Don’t world-leading zoo-based conservation Palm us Off campaign at Melbourne Zoo organisation. is advocating for the labelling of products with palm oil to help save species such as the orang-utan and Sumatran Tiger. This campaign was a highlight of 2009-10 with more than 130,000 people signing our petition telling us they want palm oil Andrew Fairley labelled on food products. The campaign Chairman also inspired a Private Members Bill now Zoos Victoria Board before Federal Parliament advocating for 12 August 2010 this change.
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 5 CEO’s message
The 2009-10 financial year is the first full Significant progress has been made this year of our new strategic direction that is year to expand and diversify our revenue seeing Zoos Victoria play a much larger and base. New commercial products and more active role in conservation. increased partnerships and sponsors will be used to improve the financial sustainability We have concentrated on realigning our of our operations. processes, products, operations and policies with our vision to become a zoo- Zoos Victoria strongly believes in the need to based conservation organisation. conserve endangered wildlife and inform and empower people to help protect threatened Our animal collection is now underpinned species and habitats. The task ahead will by conservation outcomes and working with be to continue to develop the three zoo those species that require our assistance properties in line with these conservation to survive. All property developments now goals while ensuring the people of Victoria take account of the conservation value of enjoy world-class zoos and can engage with the species on display and facilitate ways to the amazing animals that share this planet. create unique experiences that will connect people and animals. Looking ahead we aim to improve, expand and enhance the infrastructure at each of our The highlight of the year was a bumper year properties that will ensure our facilities are of visitation, with more than 1.7 million people aligned with the vision of being a true zoo- attending one of our three properties, a 16% based conservation organisation. increase on last year. Visitors are able to experience the wonder of the world’s wildlife, We also aim to further grow our visitor see the challenges these animals face in numbers over 2010-11 and see the number the wild and learn what the Zoo is doing for of people involved in our conservation conservation and what they can do to help. campaigns increase to 250,000, which supports our key thrust of harnessing public As a zoo-based conservation organisation, action behind our conservation effort. By the more people who visit, the more people 2015, we hope to grow annual visitation to we are able to inspire to take conservation 1.9 million and participation in conservation action. Over 2010-11, we were able to grow to an ambitious 1.3 million people. participation of our visitors and the broader community in our community conservation I would like to thank the Zoos Victoria Board campaigns, with more than 168,000 people under the leadership of Andrew Fairley, taking conservation action, a massive rise along with the senior executive team and all on the previous year. staff for the wonderful support, commitment and contribution over 2009-10. We set This is a demonstration of the powerful ourselves an ambitious number of tasks to benefits of our zoo-based conservation deliver against our new strategic direction model. Our community conservation focus and the achievements over 2009-10 is is delivering tangible benefits for wildlife testimony to the enormous effort by and their habitats. The Don’t Palm us Off everyone involved at Zoos Victoria. campaign has drawn attention to the plight of the orang-utan while our new Wild Sea exhibit has highlighted the danger plastics pose to our marine life. People are at the core of our operations and we have introduced an innovative training and skills program to better equip staff for Jenny Gray their new roles, as well as an improved staff Chief Executive Officer performance and development system. Zoos Victoria 12 August 2010 We are also changing our business to use environmentally sustainable practices such as green purchasing, resource efficiency and environmental management systems to minimise our carbon footprint across the three properties.
6 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 Major Highlights for 2009-10
Visitor Growth Dingo Country Thanks to new initiatives, new animals and In March 2010, a new Dingo exhibit new exhibits, Zoos Victoria achieved more opened at Healesville Sanctuary. The new than 1.7 million visitors, a 16% increase on exhibit is home to the Sanctuary’s five last year. This growth strengthens Zoos Dingoes and two new Dingo puppies. It Victoria’s capacity to inspire people to take includes a rustic alpine hut where visitors conservation action. can hear bushman’s stories, listen to Dingo As a not-for-profit organisation, an increase howls and talk to keepers. This has been in visitation further helps Zoos Victoria in its an important new exhibit with the Dingo conservation effort and care for animals. now listed as a threatened species. All revenue generated through a visit helps Toddler Tuesdays Zoos Victoria to run its world-class zoos and deliver conservation projects. Werribee Open Range Zoo expanded its attractions this financial year making A Jumbo Joy a pitch for young families to visit during the quieter mid-week period. ‘Toddler Melbourne Zoo’s Asian Elephant Dokkoon Tuesdays’ offers a host of new activities gave birth to a bouncing baby girl on 16 for children aged five years and under. January 2010, weighing in at a remarkable Children can be mini Zoo keepers and feed 110kg. The calf is just the second elephant the giraffe and meerkats, take a kid-friendly to be born in Australia and the first ever calf safari tour across the savannah or sing, born in Melbourne Zoo’s 147 year history. dance and play to African-inspired songs A public competition held to name the at the Village Dance Party. calf attracted 36,000 online votes before Mali, the Thai name for jasmine, was Year of the Tiger finally chosen. Mali is expected to have a playmate this year with another of the Zoos Victoria has celebrated the Year of Zoo’s Asian Elephants, Kulab, due to give the Tiger with the birth of four Sumatran birth in August or September. Tiger cubs in February. The cubs – two females and two males - are part of the Our Wild Sea international Sumatran Tiger captive Melbourne Zoo’s biggest ever exhibit, breeding program and are the only cubs Wild Sea, opened just before Christmas born in Australia this year. Sumatran Tigers last year. The $20 million exhibit, funded are critically endangered with an estimated by the Victorian Government, features the 300 left in the wild, reinforcing the vital wonders of Victoria’s coast and ocean and need for this breeding program. is the new home for the Zoo’s seals and penguins. For the first time, the Zoo can display a myriad of other Victorian marine wildlife including fish, Port Jackson Sharks and Fiddler Rays. The seal and penguin pools have state-of-the-art equipment to create waves and currents for the animals to enjoy. The new penguin pool is surrounded by sand dunes that replicate the coastal habitat of Port Phillip Bay and it is the first time in the Zoo’s history that penguins can be viewed swimming underwater.
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 7 Major Highlights for 2009-10
Zoos Victoria Awards 2009-10
Name of program & organisation Program objectives What we entered Our results
2009 SACS / Leadership To highlight and award outstanding Raelene Hobbs – MZ Received commendation Victoria – Leadership in leadership potential in the Victorian The Trail of the Elephants team – MZ for Rachel Lowry Victorian Government Award public sector Threatened Species unit – HS Rachel Lowry – ZV Nola Hudson - WORZ
The Melbourne Awards Promotes innovation and leadership ‘They’re Calling on You’ Won Organisation of Melbourne City mobile phone recycling campaign Environment Category
United Nations Association Promotes leadership in environmental ‘They’re Calling on You’ Special commendation of Australia World Environment management and issues particularly mobile phone recycling campaign Day Awards – Virgin Blue in the Year of Biodiversity Business Category – Environment
Zoos and Aquaria Association Leadership in delivery of education ‘They’re Calling on You’ Joint winner – Education Award programs within the industry mobile phone recycling campaign
Successful Breeding Program Growth in Membership Zoos Victoria’s captive breeding program A bigger focus on increasing Zoos Victoria for native threatened species has Friends of the Zoos membership has increased its success by 10 per cent over seen a massive jump in members, with an the last year. The Southern Corroboree increase of more than 10,000 individual Frog breeding program has continued to members during 2009-10. A marketing be successful with 235 eggs spawned, of campaign and the birth of Melbourne Zoo’s which 49 were viable, resulting in 25 frogs first ever elephant calf have reinforced growing to adult size. This is a landmark the value of a Zoos Victoria membership, achievement in the breeding of the species which offers unlimited entry to our three for any zoo anywhere in the world. The zoos every day of the year. As of 30 June Zoo is now breeding eighth generation 2010, there are 84,549 Zoos Victoria hatchlings in its Lord Howe Island Stick Friends of the Zoos members. Insect breeding program, with the total population reaching 660 stick insects. Twenty-three Eastern Barred Bandicoots were also bred at the Zoo and 14 have been released back into the environment at Mount Rothwell.
8 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 Financial Summary
Financial Overview Our vibrant zoos will continue to contribute to Victorian tourism, economic growth, education, wildlife conservation, and the recreational and social lives of Victorians. The Zoos’ revenue is principally admissions based (64%). Admission income is highly seasonal and particularly vulnerable to weather, competition and any economic down turn. With the opening of Wild Sea and the birth of Melbourne Zoo’s first ever elephant calf Mali, Melbourne Zoo visitation was 23% better than last year. Healesville Sanctuary visitation was down by 9% against last year. The region is experiencing a slow recovery after the event of the Black Saturday Bushfires in 2009. Werribee has lost some ground in 2009-10, recording 5% decline compared to 2008-09. Recurrent expenditure is comprised of high fixed costs, linked to the care of animals and assets rather than visitor numbers or visitor appeal. Zoos Victoria requires continuing investment in its assets. The Government provided $3 million capital grant for upgrade of assets and a further $2 million for maintenance during the year. The life span of most of the assets is 20 to 25 years. Fifty percent of Melbourne Zoo infrastructure is more than 50 years old and 70% of Healesville Sanctuary infrastructure is more than 30 years old.
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 9 Financial Financial Summary ($ thousands) Summary 2009-10 2008-09 2007-08 2006-07 2005-06
Recurrent
Parks and Reserve Trust Fund 1 10,336 13,389 9,313 9,086 10,364
Revenue Zoo Activities 41,642 38,525 35,372 34,113 30,905
Total Income 51,978 51,914 44,685 43,199 41,269
Total Depreciation 6,117 5,499 5,944 4,301 3,583
Total Operating Expenses 46,121 45,043 38,940 39,353 36,779
Total Other (30) 246 - - -
Total Expenses 52,208 50,788 44,884 43,654 40,362
Net Result for the period (230) 1,126 (199) (455) 907
Assets, Liabilities and Equity
Total Assets 226,934 220,586 213,728 182,763 176,970
Total Liabilities 9,449 10,571 9,043 9,489 10,894
Total Equity 217,485 210,015 204,685 173,274 166,076
Capital Contributions
Capital Grants Received 2 3,000 6,915 10,555 2,000 16,000
1 The Parks and Reserves Trust Account funding is a rate levied on metropolitan properties under the provisions of the Water Industry Act 1994 and is provided to the (Agency) for the purposes of conservation, recreation, leisure and tourism within the metropolitan area. 2 Capital Contribution by State Government is treated as Equity.
Visitor Numbers 2009-10 (thousands)
Details Melbourne Healesville Werribee Total
Zoo General Visitation 1,217 262 284 1,763
Zoo Activities Visitation 7 1 13 21
After Hours Catering Function Visitation 42 - 4 46
Total Visitations 1,266 263 301 1,830
Admission Charges
Details 2009-10 2008-09 2007-08
Adult (16 years of age or more) $24.40 $23.60 $23.00
Child (under 16 years of age) $12.10 $11.80 $11.50
Physically or intellectually disabled child under 16 years of age $6.00 $6.00 $6.00
Family (a group of 4 persons including up to 2 adults) $55.50 $53.90 $52.40
Full time student on presentation of proof of full time enrolment in secondary school or post secondary educational institution $18.50 $17.80 $17.30
Eligible recipient or eligible beneficiary within the meaning of the State Concessions Act 1986 on presentation of a current pensioner or Health Care Card issued by the Commonwealth Government $18.50 $17.80 $17.30
10 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 Our YEAR IN REVIEW The following section outlines our key achievements for 2009-10 and upcoming priorities. Melbourne Melbourne Zoo is a ‘window to the world’ offering visitors a chance to see the world’s animals up close and to gain an Zoo understanding of the way they have interacted with human cultures. The Zoo is becoming a conduit for visitors to expand their encounter with the natural world and to take action for a more sustainable future.
Melbourne Zoo is Australia’s oldest Zoo Visitors New Sumatran Tiger Cubs and staff will celebrate its 148th birthday Melbourne Zoo’s Sumatran Tigers Total Visitors 2009-10 1,217,000 in October. A program to upgrade ageing successfully bred four healthy and very assets is continuing to ensure the Zoo Average time spent active cubs. The cubs’ timely arrival during per visit (hours) 3.9 remains a premier attraction for visitors from the International Year of the Tiger renewed Victoria, interstate and overseas. focus on conservation efforts to save Animal Collection this critically endangered sub-species. Animal Type Number of Number of Key Achievements The cubs, the only ones born in Australia species specimens last year, are part of the Sumatran Tiger Fish 11 50 international captive breeding program Amphibian 18 222 Birth of Mali the Elephant Calf and like Mali the baby elephant, they’ve Reptile 72 324 The much-heralded safe arrival of Mali captured visitors’ hearts. Bird 89 453 the Asian Elephant calf in January piqued Mammal 61 265 the interest of the public with thousands Total 251 1314 Wildlife Recovery Programs of people lining up to catch a glimpse of Not including invertebrate collection. her. Introduced to visitors by Premier John Wildlife recovery programs are a central Brumby and Minister for Environment and part of the Zoo’s mission to breed and Number of injured/rescued Climate Change, Gavin Jennings, Mali was reintroduce threatened native species back animals brought to into the environment. Melbourne Zoo for specialist given her Thai name after a poll of 36,000 care and rehabilitation. 532 people decreed she should have a name The Zoo has committed to improve the that reflects her ancestral origin. A star in success of its captive breeding program the making, her baby book detailing key by 50 per cent by 2014 and achieved its milestones sold out its first March print run. initial target goal of increasing its breeding Mali is an important part of the regional success by 10 per cent over the last year. breeding program for this endangered The Southern Corroboree Frog breeding species. program has continued to be successful Wild Sea Welcomed with 235 eggs spawned, of which 49 were viable, resulting in 25 frogs growing to The Zoo’s new Wild Sea Exhibit has adult size. become one of the most popular This is a landmark achievement in the attractions since opening in December breeding of the species for any zoo 2009. Showcasing Victoria’s coastal anywhere in the world. environment, the exhibit includes Australian Fur-seals, Australian Little Penguins, The Zoo is now breeding eighth generation Fiddler Rays and a host of fish species. hatchlings in its Lord Howe Island Stick Visitors have overwhelmingly rated the Insect breeding program, with the total experience positively. Wild Sea was fully population reaching 660. funded by the Victorian Government. Twenty-three Eastern Barred Bandicoots were also bred at the Zoo and 14 have New Exhibits been released back into the environment at Several new exhibits and facilities were Mount Rothwell. opened in the last financial year including a Gorilla Rainforest Learning Centre, the front entry Zoo Shop and stage one of the Lakeside Plaza Take-away area.
12 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 Priorities for the Great Apes Coming Year A young female gorilla was transferred from Sydney’s Taronga Zoo to Melbourne Elephants Expansion in April 2010 to support the regional breeding program. She was slowly A major priority is planning the expansion introduced to the male Rigo and the family of our Asian Elephant regional breeding group, while Mai the breeding female from program. the orang-utan group is due to give birth in Kulab the young female is due to deliver November 2010. her calf in late August or early September. Growing Wild Baboon Lookout Work on the Zoo’s early childhood precinct Plans to relocate the Hamadryas Baboon Growing Wild is continuing, with stage troop to a new exhibit within the African one expected to be completed in the next Bush area of the Zoo are continuing. financial year. Growing Wild will explore The new Baboon Lookout will see the three zones, ground, water and trees, baboon troop moved into a new more exploring the different ways in which naturalistic exhibit alongside the giraffes, animals live. It will provide rich, powerful, zebras and ostriches. multi-sensory, experiences that facilitate exploration, play and discovery, igniting a The design for the new exhibit is being lifelong passion for wildlife. The focus for prepared and is on track for public opening the next financial year will be to undertake early in 2011. the first phase of works, delivering the first part of the Ground Zone.
What Our Visitors Think
Topic Result Description
Melbourne Zoo shows a high standard of care for the animals 92% % response for good & very good
The animals at Melbourne Zoo look like they are in a 88% % response for natural setting good & very good
It is important to me that Melbourne Zoo is involved in 83% % who agree conservation programs
I am motivated to do more about wildlife conservation 60% % who agree
I have learnt something I can do to help wildlife conservation 60% % who agree
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 13 Healesville Healesville Sanctuary provides a rich understanding of the Australian bushland, its wildlife, local conservation Sanctuary efforts and our Indigenous culture. The Sanctuary plays an important role in looking after sick or injured wildlife and is at the forefront of protecting threatened species through its breeding and reintroduction programs.
Visitors Key achievements Native Wildlife Breeding An extra six Tasmanian Devil breeding Total Visitors 2009-10 262,000 Dingo Country enclosures were built and nine females Average time spent A new exhibit opened inviting visitors to gave birth to 27 joeys this year. There are per visit (hours) 3.6 enter Dingo Country, a dramatic rocky high now 34 enclosures with another 26 on country exhibit and the new home for our the way and 75 Tasmanian Devils in total, Animal Collection dingoes. The experience, which opened supporting the national mainland insurance Animal Type Number of Number of in March 2010, highlights the threatened population program. species specimens species of Alpine Dingo, our very own Fish 6 13 Victoria’s bird emblem, the Helmeted Amphibian 6 158 famous yellow Aussie dog. Honeyeater, is continuing to thrive at Reptile 43 122 Visitors come into a rustic Alpine Hut Healesville where 35 chicks hatched and Bird 71 547 (named after retiring staff member Kevin 28 were released back into the wild in the Mammal 31 249 Mason) and hear the old bushman’s Bunyip State Park. Total 157 1089 stories, listen to dingoes howl and to This year the Platypus breeding season keepers talk about how this threatened Number of injured/rescued produced a male. It is the fifth time species might be the answer to achieving animals brought to Healesville the Sanctuary has bred Platypus, Sanctuary for specialist ecological balance in the Australian demonstrating the Sanctuary’s continued care and rehabilitation. 1276 landscape. leadership in the husbandry and care of this unique species. Bringing Back Bushland One of Healesville’s major ongoing projects Improving the Visitor Experience involves restoring the Coranderrk Bushland Yarra Valley regional food is now part of the to a significant Yarra Valley bushland area, visitor experience to Sanctuary Harvest, representative of pre-European settlement. the Zoo’s catering offering which now has A biodiversity management plan and a an à la carte menu based around local cultural heritage plan have been completed produce. and Zoo staff worked with Wurundjeri Major renovation work to the main catering elders to map important Indigenous facility includes new ovens, windows and landscape features including scar trees, seating areas that improved visitor flow. where the bark of trees has been removed The surrounding gardens and pathways to make canoes, and surviving parts of the have also been revitalised to improve the old station track. visitor experience, and the Reptile House Picnic Shelter was renovated. New Parrot Breeding Centre A new Orange-bellied Parrot breeding Farewell to Sanctuary Favourite facility was built with temperature control Kevin Mason, Customer Relations and video surveillance to ensure a higher Manager, retired on 30 June after 50 success rate for the breeding program of years of dedicated service. Kevin’s years this critically endangered parrot. In the last at Healesville have been celebrated season 32 chicks were bred, the highest many times over including permanent number in the program’s 20 years. recognition in the naming of the Alpine Hut ‘Mason’s Hut’ at the Dingo Country exhibit. Healesville Sanctuary thanks Kevin for his enormous contribution over five decades.
14 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 Priorities for the Improve Facilities and Infrastructure Coming Year Implement the Asset Management Plan to improve facilities and infrastructure. Major Complete Enclosures for improvements will be the replacement of Threatened Species three bridges used for visitor circulation around the Sanctuary and upgrades to the Complete 26 breeding enclosures Reptile Picnic area and toilet facilities. and large free-range Tasmanian Devil enclosures to ensure the success of the Enhancing the Coranderrk breeding program. Develop further frog breeding facilities to increase potential We will work with Indigenous community programs. leaders from the Wurundjeri to further develop the Coranderrk native Bushland Attract More Visitors Reserve as part of the biodiversity management plan. Develop a visitor driving program by reinvigorating the Birds of Prey presentation.
What Our Visitors Think
Topic Result Description
Healesville Sanctuary shows a high standard of care for 95% % response for the animals good & very good
The animals at Healesville Sanctuary look like they are 94% % response for in a natural setting good & very good
It is important to me that Healesville Sanctuary is involved in 94% % who agree conservation programs
I am motivated to do more about wildlife conservation 65% % who agree
I have learnt something I can do to help wildlife conservation 64% % who agree
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 15 Werribee Open Werribee Open Range Zoo offers a wide variety of wildlife, outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. The Zoo provides Range Zoo an open-range setting featuring grassland animals of Africa, North America, Asia and Australia. It specialises in close-up encounters via a safari bus, walking trails or open vehicle tours that allow visitors to feed a giraffe, touch a rhino or experience life as a keeper.
Visitors Key Achievements Beads for Wildlife A community trade campaign Beads Total Visitors 2009-10 284,000 Toddler Tuesdays for Wildlife was launched in November Average time spent Werribee Open Range Zoo is becoming 2009 which supports the social and per visit (hours) 4 the place to be for young families with the conservation needs of the Zoo’s sister introduction of ‘Toddler Tuesdays’. Every community at the Melako Community Animal Collection Tuesday the Zoo offers a host of activities Conservancy in Kenya. Animal Type Number of Number of for children aged five and under. A safari species specimens The beautiful beadwork created by the Fish 3 15 bus tour features puppets, music and lots women in the community has been sold Amphibian 2 18 of animal action while the Village Dance in zoo retail outlets, creating an alternative Reptile 19 53 Party encourages kids to play bongos, income stream for the women and their Bird 9 58 stamp feet and dance to ‘call animals families and reducing reliance on livestock Mammal 32 228 to water’. Children can also be mini Zoo in times of severe drought. This in turn Total 65 372 keepers having close-up encounters with means reduced competition for food and lots of fascinating animals and then go water with native species such as zebra Number of injured/rescued behind the scenes to feed the meerkats and African Elephant, giving them a greater animals brought to Werribee and giraffe. chance of survival. More than 10,000 Open Range Zoo for specialist care and rehabilitation. 13 pieces were sold, with proceeds delivering WORZ Master Plan an income stream for the Rendille people The Werribee Open Range Zoo master of Melako and assisting Zoos Victoria with plan was completed this year and its conservation effort. This campaign will approved by the Zoos Victoria Board. The continue and be a focus in the lead up to plan was compiled following considerable Christmas 2010. staff input, visitor research, economic analysis and design. Detailed planning was Wildlife Security also completed for the new Gorilla Exhibit Smugglers Beware was launched in June and the Veterinary Hospital. Planning has 2009 encompassing two winter holiday also progressed for other new features programs. The indoor exhibit was a fun, including a new safari departure station, educational and interactive experience the children’s playground and a new that focused on the widespread and Serval Exhibit. destructive wildlife smuggling trade. The exhibit featured many exotic and Facilities Upgrade endangered animals often involved The Rhino Encounter was redeveloped in wildlife smuggling and also many providing a space to facilitate a ‘hands prohibited items seized by the Australian on’ experience for visitors. The Wild Dogs Customs and Border Protection Service. and Lions Exhibits also received minor upgrades including more shade trees and improvements to the water-hole and dens. A number of minor projects such as shade, seating, paths and exhibit fencing have been undertaken this year with funding from the asset maintenance program.
16 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 Opening Back of House Priorities for the Zoo After Dark During January 2010, Werribee Open Coming Year Wild Nights was launched as the winter Range Zoo ran a summer holiday program 2010 school holiday program trialing the designed to ‘flatten the peaks’ of the Gorillas Coming West concept of a night Zoo. The event allowed Zoo’s busy summer weekends, when visitors to observe nocturnal behaviors The State Government has provided $1.5 large visitor numbers strain the Zoo’s of animals along the main walking million for the new Gorilla Exhibit to house resources and potentially compromise trail including lions, hippos, monkeys the bachelor gorillas from Melbourne Zoo. the visitor experience. and Cheetahs. The event included the The new exhibit will be located on an island launch of the Serval presentations and Open House – Back of House was close to the entrance of the Zoo and is was complemented by fire dancers and designed to encourage mid week visitation expected to open in early 2011. during January, provide a ‘value add’ drummers. Visitors also enjoyed the behind the scenes component for visitors New Veterinary Hospital opportunity to toast marshmallows and and drive up revenue by having visitors pay discover the magical ‘secret garden’. If A new veterinary hospital is being built at a small additional price ($2 per person) for successful, Wild Nights will become an Werribee Open Range Zoo to enhance our the ‘back of house’ experience. The low annual winter program. capacity to provide world-class care to our price high-volume approach enabled 9,072 animals. The Zoo now has veterinary staff people to participate in the experience, on site seven days a week. The new facility giving visitors a glimpse of life behind the will include a treatment room, clinical lab, scenes at the Zoo. The program drove a pharmacy, necropsy, veterinary offices, shift of 12% from weekend to mid week wards and associated amenities/storage visitation. The event will run again next areas and is expected to open late 2010. January and build profile as an annual event.
What Our Visitors Think
Topic Result Description
Werribee Open Range Zoo shows a high standard 95% % response for of care for the animals good & very good
The animals at Werribee Open Range Zoo look like they 96% % response for are in a natural setting good & very good
It is important to me that Werribee Open Range Zoo 77% % who agree is involved in conservation programs
I am motivated to do more about wildlife conservation 54% % who agree
I have learnt something I can do to help wildlife conservation 55% % who agree
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 17 Wildlife Zoos Victoria is ramping up its contribution to biodiversity conservation programs as the shift Conservation towards a zoo-based conservation organisation and Science gathers pace.
Through its Wildlife Conservation and Key Achievements Papua New Guinea Project Science Department, Zoos Victoria Expanding supports conservation locally with its More International Projects The Tenkile Conservation Alliance in Papua captive breeding and reintroduction New Guinea has been given a major programs for threatened Australian animal Two new international conservation funding boost with grants secured totalling species. The Department also works on programs have been added to the Zoos $1.5 million for conservation work in the managing degraded habitat and restoring Victoria portfolio, further bolstering our Torricelli Mountain Ranges. Funding from it so that it can support a diversity of effort to deliver tangible conservation the European Union, the Future for Nature wildlife once more. outcomes beyond the gates of our zoos. Foundation and the Wildlife Conservation The Kinabatangan Conservation Program Globally the Department supports Network will go towards achieving the operates across more than 200,000 biodiversity conservation projects in the project’s long-term goal of creating a hectares of Kinabatangan River floodplain developing world, bringing the expertise legally-protected conservation area of in the Malaysian State of Sabah. Operated of Zoos Victoria personnel to drive critical 90,000 hectares to ensure biodiversity is by a local organisation, “Hutan”, the conservation outcomes. safeguarded for future generations. program has a rigorous research and In the past year the Department worked on management program to support The ongoing field research is highlighting 12 species recovery programs and played orang-utan and elephant conservation; that wildlife populations are recovering a lead role in the successful establishment a suite of other projects to increase from the previous low levels driven by of the Tasmanian Devil ‘insurance knowledge and conservation of Sabah’s human hunting. Analysis of data for tree- population’ on the mainland. biodiversity through training, research kangaroos suggests that the numbers of Internationally, Zoos Victoria worked in and partnerships; reduce human- Tenkile or Scott’s Tree-kangaroo, one of Papua New Guinea and expanded its wildlife conflict and enhance community the program’s flagships, has increased support of conservation work in South- engagement through training, employment, by more than 50% since the program east Asia and Southern Africa, helping to sustainable livelihoods and ecotourism. commenced in 1999. enhance the viability of entire ecosystems The Democratic Republic of Congo is Critical to the program’s long-term and the sustainability of the communities the focus of a community conservation sustainability is building the skills and who live with them. program to create 10 community reserves management capacities of the local The Department also has strategic covering an area of approximately 1.2 communities. This is a long-term goal responsibility for Life Sciences functions, in million hectares. These will establish a but is already showing results, with particular the development of policies that habitat corridor between two existing all of the monitoring of research sites support Zoos Victoria being world-class national parks (Kahuzi-Biega and Maiko) being undertaken by trained villagers, leaders in animal care and well being. to create a protected area spanning implementation of the health and hygiene 1.5 million hectares. A priority is the projects by trained local facilitators and conservation of Eastern Lowland Gorillas, a local Project Supervisor appointed to as this area encompasses 90 per cent of manage program activities. their remaining range. Our partner is the Jane Goodall Institute and crucial elements of the program include family planning and the creation of sustainable livelihoods and enterprises for local villagers.
18 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 Cambodian Conservation Natives Back on Top Priorities for the Zoos Victoria has provided an additional Healesville Sanctuary has continued Coming Year $20,000 to our Cambodian partner, to successfully breed its ‘insurance Fauna and Flora International, to increase population’ of Tasmanian Devils, with Better Resources for Staff protection of the 330,000 hectare Phnom numbers in its breeding program about to A keepers’ manual will be developed to act Samkos Wildlife Sanctuary, which is hit the 120 mark. as a primary resource for staff, which will threatened by construction of a new hydro- The program aims to successfully breed give insight into the daily animal husbandry electric dam and reservoir. The funds were and manage a population of around 100 activities and routines of Zoo keepers. used to employ additional forest rangers, Devils for a decade to bolster the stocks install guard-posts on entry-exit roads and of wild-born, disease-free animals from More Recovery and Direct monitor activities of construction workers. Tasmania’s west coast. The devils are Conservation Programs The Sanctuary is located in the Cardamom still under threat from extinction from a Mountains in Cambodia’s southwest. Zoos Victoria will expand its capacity transmissible cancer known as Devil Facial Prior to construction it was already under to support priority threatened species Tumour Disease. pressure from illegal logging, poaching recovery programs, including amphibians and land-grabbing. Despite three decades After many years of persistence the and Tasmanian Devils at Healesville of conflict, the Cardamom Mountains Helmeted Honeyeater reintroduction Sanctuary and Eastern Barred Bandicoots comprise one of the most important sites program is starting to show significant at Werribee Open Range Zoo. It will also for biodiversity in South-east Asia. signs of success, with the creation of a increase the number of staff involved in third colony of Helmeted Honeyeaters in direct conservation programs. Stopping the Poachers in Kenya the wild in 2010. The number of threatened species needing help within Australia continues to rise Zoos Victoria provided $23,000 to enable Looking After Our Animals wildlife scouts to stop elephant poaching and some of the species we have been in the 80,000-hectare Melako Community Zoos Victoria’s Animal Welfare Code actively trying to conserve are continuing to Conservancy in northern Kenya. The and Species Selection and Assessment decline in the wild and now face imminent illegal ivory trade is an increasing threat Tool have been developed to guide the extinction. The likelihood is that some native to elephants in Africa and Asia, and management and composition of our species will only exist in zoos unless Zoos the Melako scouts play a key role in animal collections. They ensure animals Victoria expands its conservation capacity. are managed to sustain their health and establishing peace and security across the As the organisation continues to move into wellbeing and to evaluate the role of each Conservancy, enabling wildlife to return. more direct conservation work the demand species in our collections in the delivery of As in all our international partnerships, for staff involvement will increase, together conservation outcomes. community engagement and support with the need for staff to acquire different is critical. In the Melako community, the Animal collections at all three zoos are skills and expertise. currently being reviewed using these tools community conservation campaign, Beads Zoos Victoria will develop a Conservation as part of the broader push to become for Wildlife, was of fundamental importance and Science Plan to provide the bridging a zoo-based conservation organisation. to providing families with alternative rationale between the strategic vision Also under review is Zoos Victoria’s role in income to help them get through the and the conservation and research the rehabilitation of injured and displaced recent severe drought. It also highlighted program details. This will identify how wildlife, in terms of the welfare and the potential for this initiative to play a our conservation and research objectives conservation benefits to Victoria’s wildlife. broader role in sustaining and benefiting are established, and how these and entire communities and wildlife over the our collections management and long-term. community campaigns are integrated to secure conservation outcomes. We will also develop specific measures for conservation programs in order to evaluate biodiversity gain in the wild as a result of Zoos Victoria initiatives.
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 19 Visitor AND Community Development
Visitor and Community Development works Gorillas Call Out Sales on the Up across all visitor touch-points including They’re Calling On You – a mobile phone The Zoo Twilights Concert series continued special programs, retail and catering, to recycling campaign – has encouraged as a highlight on Melbourne’s calendar embed opportunities for visitors to connect thousands of visitors to support gorilla of events. The concerts were extremely with wildlife, build their understanding of conservation in central Africa. The program popular with 23,464 attending across species and their habitats and be able to has won the environment category of the the series despite two evenings being follow-up with tangible actions that benefit Melbourne Awards and received a Special cancelled due to extreme storm conditions. wildlife and ecosystems. Commendation in the United Nations The sales team achieved $3.2 million in Visitor and Community Development Association of Australia World Environment ticket sales, with revenue enhanced by develops key visitor experience, learning Day Awards. conducting all ticket selling in-house, and community conservation plans Developed by Zoos Victoria and launched eliminating fees to external contractors. for implementation across all three at Melbourne Zoo by activist Dr Jane properties, and brings together the key Retail sales at zoo properties were also Goodall, the program has seen visitors and functions of learning strategy, commercial strong, exceeding more than $5.7 million the broader community hand back more development, marketing, communications with four of our stores all generating in than 23,000 old mobile phones, which and community conservation. excess of $1 million each in sales. have been diverted from landfill. The healthy bottom line included more Some mobile phones contain a tiny piece than $63,000 in sales for Werribee Zoo’s Key Achievements of metallic ore called coltan mined in Community Conservation campaign - Africa. Coltan is mined both in and out Beads for Wildlife which supports our Don’t Palm us Off of Africa. The mining of coltan within in-situ work with the Melako Conservancy Melbourne Zoo’s Don’t Palm us Off the Congo River Basin is contributing to in Kenya. campaign was launched in August 2009 forest loss and unrest in the region and is and has garnered more than 130,000 accelerating the loss of mountain gorillas at Seal the Loop signatures demonstrating community an alarmingly fast rate. Seal the Loop is a new community support for the mandatory labelling of The campaign has raised $37,000 to conservation initiative that was launched palm oil on all packaged food products support in-situ and ex-situ primate to coincide with the opening of Melbourne sold in Australia. conservation. Over 100 corporations and Zoo’s Wild Sea exhibit. The campaign aimed to influence policy 70 schools are also participating in this The campaign encourages visitors to makers to change food-labelling laws campaign through the donation of fleet recycle plastics which are the most so that products containing palm oil phones and collection drives. common litter item found within Australia. are clearly identified. This will enable Melbourne Zoo is often required to provide consumers to make informed choices Staying in Touch emergency treatment and care to marine on food purchases creating a greater Visitors are staying in touch with Zoos animals such as seals, that have become demand for sustainably produced palm Victoria online in increasing numbers entangled in discarded plastic. oil ahead of palm oil sourced through – with more than 1.7 million visits to the production methods that have significant website recorded for 2009-10, an increase Melbourne Zoo’s Seal the Loop initiative environmental and wildlife impacts. of 42.57% on 2008-09. includes production of special Seal the Loop bins made from recycled plastic The petition phase of the campaign closed During the year we also took our first waste that are being placed in selected on 1 July 2010. After 1 July Melbourne foray into social media providing a fishing locations making it easier for Zoo moved to the next phase of the more interactive, two-way approach to people fishing to discard their fishing line campaign, aiming to use the enormous communicating with the community. responsibly thereby reducing the incidence public response as a catalyst to change Thousands joined our Zoos Victoria and of wildlife entanglements. food-labelling laws and drive demand community conservation campaigns for manufacturers to remove or use Facebook pages and downloaded our A Fresh and Sustainable sustainable palm oil in their products. widget and continue to engage with us. Catering Approach During 2009-10 the integration of Melbourne Zoo and Werribee Open Range memberships under the Zoos Victoria Zoo welcomed Liberty Catering as the umbrella to become Zoos Victoria Friends new catering provider following a tender of the Zoos lead to a 10 per cent increase process. Liberty will provide a fresh new in memberships and an improved ability approach to food. The team at Liberty to communicate and build an ongoing joined the zoos in July and will be providing relationship with members. More than seasonal menus using local suppliers and 84,500 people are now Zoos Victoria environmentally sustainable principles. members compared to 72,143 in June 2009.
20 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 Act4Nature Primate Behaviour Research gives Securing a Learning Future students the opportunity to share learning To celebrate the International year of An application to the Department across schools locally and internationally Biodiversity, Zoos Victoria partnered with of Education and Early Childhood by researching Melbourne Zoo orang- the Department of Sustainability and Development’s Strategic Partnerships utans first hand within the classroom, Environment, Parks Victoria, Melbourne Program for funding in the triennium 2012 thanks to four real-time web cameras. Museum and the Royal Botanic Gardens -2014 will be a main priority for 2010-11. Conservation Mashups offers students to help the Victorian community appreciate Zoos Victoria’s current Memorandum the opportunity to explore the complex and understand the importance of of Understanding with the Department issue of palm oil and its threat to wildlife biodiversity whilst inspiring informed action expires at the end of 2011, and work will and take creative action. Kids can access for its protection through the launch or the take place in the coming year to highlight a collection of video clips and images and Act4Nature web portal. how our programs can support the use an online edit tool to ‘mash up’ their Department in achieving student learning The website has featured a different action own video to support the Don’t Palm us outcomes in Victorian schools. each month, supported by a special Off program. The Bushfires and Wildlife calendar for schools that encourages project sets students the challenge to A Growing Membership action at home and school to address ‘improve biodiversity and reduce fire risk threats to nature such as climate change, in their community’ and post a short video A major priority will be to further grow Zoos population pressures and increasing of their work. Online unique resources Victoria Friends of the Zoos membership consumption that is impacting on species including video stories of bushfire-affected beyond 100,000. A membership plan will around the world. wildlife and access to experts through be developed to increase awareness of web conferences support schools in their zoo membership and enhanced value to Six consecutive education awards challenge and inquiry. the growing membership base. A major focus will be improved engagement with Zoos Victoria won the Zoo and Aquarium members so that retention rates are Association Award for Educational Priorities for the increased and members experience better Excellence for the sixth successive year interaction with their favourite zoo. for the They’re Calling on You learning Coming Year program that was embedded within the visitor experience and student learning New Community A Commercial Plan That Delivers program at Melbourne Zoo. Conservation Programs A five-year retail plan will be developed A new community conservation that better aligns conservation and Online Learning campaign Wipe for Wildlife, delivered sustainability to retail operations and products, while growing a stable offer of Three new online learning resources were through Healesville Sanctuary, will be a top commercial products to increase revenue developed to bring students closer to priority for 2010-11. Launched on Sunday that will allow Zoos Victoria to invest further wildlife and conservation. Zoos Victoria, 4 July 2010, the campaign focuses on in conservation. supported by the Department of Education encouraging people to use recycled and Early Childhood Development, has toilet paper. developed innovative digital resources for a teaching and learning web portal for Improved Learning Victorian schools called FUSE, which were Supported by the Department of Education launched in July 2010. and Early Childhood Development, Zoos Victoria will extend its reach in online learning with the development of the Act4Nature Schools Portal. Act4Nature Schools Portal will be an interactive space that enables students to connect to local conservation action opportunities, share what they are doing to help biodiversity with their peers, take on monthly challenges, create and publish their own digital stories, access experts for support and guidance, and become young conservation leaders in their school and wider community.
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 21 Community Zoos Victoria respects the diverse and rich cultures of the people of Melbourne and commits to engaging Inclusiveness people in a variety of ways that honour culture and history as well as providing community inclusive opportunities. Highlights for 2009-10 are outlined below under the following four areas: Cultural Diversity, Women, Young People and Indigenous Affairs.
Cultural Diversity Young People Mission Australia Family Day A Learning Icon Melbourne Zoo, in a community partnership During 2009-10 168,573 students and with Mission Australia, hosted the Mission teachers were involved in learning and Australia Family Day on 23 December 2009. professional learning programs at all three This event, for the second consecutive year, Zoos Victoria properties. Work experience provided the opportunity for more than programs provided the opportunity for 23 1500 people from socially disadvantaged students to work alongside Zoo staff to backgrounds to be able to spend the day gain valuable insights into the zoo industry at the Zoo. Many of the participants were and 855 young people participated in newly arrived migrants and refugees. The programs that develop specialist skills and event allowed Melbourne Zoo to make promote pathways, such as Keeper for a new connections and provide learning Day and Vet for a Day. opportunities for people who haven’t had Helping Bushfire Affected Schools the opportunity to visit the Zoo before. In August 2009 Healesville Sanctuary Metlink and V/line collaborated to provide hosted three fire-affected primary schools free public transport to the event. Families - Marysville, Buxton and Taggerty - for a travelled from all areas of Melbourne and morning with special keeper and animal regional centres including Shepparton, experiences. The event was coordinated Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and Bairnsdale. by Victoria Police, which culminated in the Learning Experiences children going to Healesville Memorial Hall All three properties ran programs for 2500 to be entertained by Police Bands. ESL students to develop and enhance Access for All their understanding and awareness of More school children are accessing the Australia’s unique fauna, whilst learning zoos as a result of a grant from the Ian the English language. Another key Potter Foundation (Sewell Fund) that is language achievement this year was the supporting the Access for All program. development of a Language Other than The program finances the cost of English (LOTE) Indonesian student learning disadvantaged schools which have not program, Banyak Binatang, at Melbourne been able to access the Zoo or otherwise Zoo in partnership with a group of Victorian may not be able to afford to make a Indonesian teachers and the LOTE unit of trip to one of the three zoos. Over 2010 the Department of Education and Early 16 schools and 939 students will be Childhood Development. supported with transport and entry costs to visit a Zoo property for a learning program.
22 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 A Helping Hand Indigenous Affairs Other key Indigenous actions over 2009-10 include: Zoos Victoria entered into a community Zoos Victoria, in partnership with partnership with the Victorian Youth Reconciliation Australia, is currently + Healesville Sanctuary hosted a visit by Mentoring Alliance to provide opportunities developing a Reconciliation Action some 20 Wurundjeri elders and staff for disadvantaged youth. Melbourne Zoo Plan (RAP). While Zoos Victoria has on 18 May 2010. A tour of the Dingo hosted the Youth Mentoring Summit on 15 undertaken a number of Indigenous Country exhibit, a Platypus encounter, August 2009. Zoos Victoria provided 1500 initiatives, developing a RAP provides a along with a tour of the Coranderrk complimentary passes to the Victorian formal and public commitment to ongoing bushland and Birds of Prey presentation Youth Mentoring Alliance in support of reconciliation action. was well received by the Wurundjeri and Youth Mentoring Week, which provided provided the opportunity to discuss our By developing a Reconciliation Action the opportunity for mentors to bring their RAP process Plan, Zoos Victoria can play a part in the young matches to any of the three zoos for national effort to close the unacceptable + Discussions are currently underway an informal, bonding experience. life expectancy gap between Aboriginal to have Wurundjeri Art and Craft on Melbourne Zoo also provides a number and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the sale in the Sanctuary’s retail store. of free tickets to the Royal Children’s wider Australian community. Selected items have been identified Hospital, who offer these to families of with the Wurundjeri presenting a formal The Reconciliation Action Plan will focus patients in their care. submission during the 18 May visit. on three key areas: This opportunity will be further scoped Women + Respect during 2010-11 All three zoos pride themselves on being + Relationships + A biodiversity management plan for the family friendly venues. Our Zoos Victoria + Opportunities. Coranderrk bushland and a cultural Friends of the Zoos Memberships offer heritage plan have been completed. Zoo An internal working group has been year round unlimited entry to our three staff worked have with Wurundjeri elders established and separate workshop great zoos. Memberships are affordable to map important Indigenous landscape sessions have been held at each and are very popular with young families, features including scar trees, where the property to scope ideas. A number of key particularly stay-at-home mums. bark of trees has been removed to make stakeholders have also been engaged canoes, and surviving parts of the old Zoos Victoria has a strong representation including Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, station track. Healesville Sanctuary will of women in the workforce. Women Tourism Victoria, the Koori Business work with Indigenous community leaders comprise 59% of Zoos Victoria’s staffing Network, the Victorian Indigenous Youth from the Wurundjeri to further develop the including 44% of Zoos Victoria’s senior Advisory Council along with traditional Coranderrk Bushland Reserve as part of executive including the CEO. Zoos Victoria owner groups, who will continue to be the biodiversity management plan. has also increased the availability of part- engaged as the plan develops. time work across all disciplines in response to employees with family and During 2009-10, a number of meetings lifestyle demands. were held with the Wurundjeri Tribal Land Compensation and Cultural Heritage Council to engage traditional owners on our Reconciliation Action Plan. A meeting request has also been made to the Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation, the traditional owners of land on the western side of the Werribee River.
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 23 Zoos Victoria The Zoos Victoria Foundation has the responsibility of raising funds to ensure Foundation Melbourne Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary and Werribee Open Range Zoo are the world’s best zoo-based conservation organisations.
The Foundation helps Zoos Victoria Key Achievements New Aviaries achieve its vision to save wildlife and wild The Merrin Foundation has continued its places by fostering community concern for Supporting Zoo Exhibits strong support for Healesville Sanctuary’s wildlife, providing engaging experiences threatened species programs enabling us with animals and supporting local and The Foundation raised funds for critical to purchase new release-aviaries for the international conservation programs. projects across the three zoo properties. These included a new Gorilla Exhibit and Helmeted Honeyeater. In 2009-10, the Foundation raised $1.56 veterinary hospital at Werribee Open million to support our major projects and Range Zoo; a new Baboon Exhibit at Devils Video Surveillance conservation programs. Melbourne Zoo; and providing support for The Foundation secured grants from the the Tasmanian Devil breeding facility and Ian Potter Foundation and Youngman redevelopment of the Coranderrk Bushland Trust to purchase new video surveillance Reserve at Healesville Sanctuary. cameras to monitor the breeding habits of Tasmanian Devils. In 2009, 27 devil ‘pups’ Amphibian Complex were born as part of the program. The Foundation secured grants from the Youngman Trust and Zoo and Aquarium Corporate Partners Association to construct a new exhibit The Foundation received support from a for threatened native frogs such as the number of ongoing and new corporate Corroboree Frog to assist with partners to support conservation breeding programs. campaigns and priority projects for each property. A full list of our corporate Access for All supporters can be found in the partners A grant from the Ian Potter Foundation and supporters section. (Sewell Fund) has enabled Zoos Victoria’s Learning Department to offer free Zoo Strong Support entry and bus hire costs for disadvantaged We received strong and continued support schools in Victoria. from our passionate supporters through general donations, animal adoptions and Vet Seal Pool bequests. Overall during the year, the Melbourne Zoo cares for many injured Foundation received five bequests totalling marine mammals and birds from Port $190,370 and 802 individual donations Phillip Bay. A grant from the Lord Mayor’s totalling $931,050. The Animal Adoptions Charitable Foundation meant that we were program had 1343 donors, which able to upgrade our veterinary seal pool to totalled $182,301. cater for the high demand of marine life we treat every year.
24 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 2009-10 Foundation Results Priorities for the Foundation Board The Foundation set an ambitious target of Coming Year The Zoos Victoria Foundation has $2.25m for 2009-10, up $500,000 from the an Advisory Board with Membership In the coming year, the Foundation will be previous financial year. as follows: engaging with Zoos Victoria’s 1.7 million Unfortunately this was not achieved due annual visitors to make donations or adopt Chair to a significant drop in Bequests (down an animal to support the three zoos. We Sid Myer $701,044 from 2008-09) and also in will also launch a capital philanthropy Members general donations and Animal Adoptions. campaign to build relationships and secure Rika Warbanoff However, our performance in Corporate funding from Trusts and Foundations, Andrew Vizard Partnerships, Major Gifts and Trusts and corporations, Government and individual Foundations remained strong. donors for the upcoming 150th anniversary Andrew Darbyshire (appointed December 09) To achieve our 2010-11 target of $2.75 of Melbourne Zoo. Alex Waislitz (appointed May 10) million we will be implementing a formal The Foundation aims to raise $2.75 Bequest program, commencing a direct million in 2010-11 to assist Zoos Victoria Nicholas Whitby (appointed May 10) mail program and working to promote become a leading zoo-based conservation Ian Hicks (appointed May 10) Zoos Victoria’s need for support from organisation. Irene Irvine (appointed June 09) the community. Steven Munchenberg (resigned Jan 10) Zoos Victoria Donor Results Janet Whiting (resigned May 10) Target $2.25 million Tina McMeckan (resigned May 10)
Result $1.5 million
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 25 Our Sustainable Zoos Victoria’s three properties house many animals facing extinction in the wild because Operations of human activity.
The effects of climate change, prolonged Key Achievements drought and an increase in the intensity of bushfires has resulted in a loss of flora and Green Policies and Practices fauna, with diminished recovery rates. Zoos Victoria has implemented a wide For example, our own Mountain Pygmy- range of environmental policies and possum and Southern Corroborree Frog, practices, including our first version of which live in the mountainous regions of an Environmental Management System Victoria and New South Wales, are facing a structure and manual, a green procurement significant loss of habitat making it difficult policy and the Waste Not organic waste to release captive bred individuals back recycling campaign for staff. A detailed into the wild. energy audit of our three zoos has led to Globally, more than 700 million visitors the Switch Off campaign to improve pass through the gates of zoos and energy efficiency. aquariums each year, providing a unique Our skills program, Skill Up Green opportunity to connect with people on – Zoos Today, is training our staff in climate change issues. environmentally sustainable practices so Zoos Victoria aims to provide up-to-date they can become leaders in conservation. information on environmental issues and We have also developed an environmental present this in a way that engages people sustainability section in the species and encourages them to take selection criteria and we are improving on conservation action. our environmentally sustainable guidelines for new and existing developments. Our three zoos are working to become models of environmental sustainability, Resource Efficiency however, they face many challenges. While zoos play an important role in Zoos Victoria has introduced a number Greenhouse Gas Emissions demonstrating the effects of climate of resource efficiency programs including from Source 2009-10Net change on wildlife, they also require high the retrofitting of the Melbourne Zoo retail emissions = 8035.15 tonnes CO2e levels of resources to maintain them. shops with energy efficient lighting, which has reduced power demand from 16 to 4 Our zoos are mini communities with kilowatts. The Zoo has also trialed infrared animal exhibits, gardens, veterinary heating for animal exhibits resulting in hospitals, education centres and offices a decrease in use of electricity and a that all require heating and cooling, water massive 60 per cent saving in greenhouse and power and waste management. We gas emissions. The commencement of a need to build environmentally sustainable trial of silver water treatment for the Pygmy practices across all operations of our three Hippo Exhibit is anticipated to reduce zoos and reduce our carbon footprint as water and energy use. much as possible. We are committed to: Renewable Energy + Being carbon neutral by 2012 We continue to increase our energy from + A green procurement program renewable energy sources. We currently purchase 15% accredited Green Power. + Greater resource efficiency A 4kW solar electricity system was + An Environmental Management System installed at Melbourne Zoo to power all the lighting requirements of the main + Training and support for staff in retail shop. Heat pump hot water systems sustainability practices at home have been installed at Melbourne Zoo, and work Werribee Open Range Zoo and Healesville + Inspiring people to take conservation Sanctuary with 12, 18 and 15 units installed action. respectively. They will result in lower energy and greenhouse gas emissions in delivering hot water.
26 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 Water Conservation Carbon Neutral Events Bio-sequestration Program Zoos Victoria is leading the way in water We are working hard to ensure key events A bio-sequestration program will be conservation for large landscapes. Werribee at the three zoos are carbon neutral. developed to negate the effects of our Open Range Zoo has increased its capacity In 2009-10 Zoo Twilights, the Roar carbon emissions. This will include to harvest rainwater with two additional Sounds concerts, the Zoo and Aquarium ongoing revegetation work that has already water tanks of 125,000 litres and 131,000 Association Conference 2010 and several resulted in 1000 trees planted at Werribee litres to collect rainwater or store recycled teacher professional development Open Range Zoo. water. The construction of a bus depot conferences were carbon neutral events. was also designed with a large flat roof to We are looking at other ways to mitigate Environmental Management collect rainwater to use for washing the carbon impacts to ensure more of our System Zoo’s buses. All the property’s irrigation events can be carbon neutral. After officially launching our Environmental water is still supplied by recycled grey water. Management System (EMS) in July Healesville Sanctuary also switched from Priorities for the 2010, we aim to continuously improve using town water for irrigation to using water our environmental performance through from Lake Coranderrk. Coming Year environmental programs developed and Melbourne Zoo continues to look for identified through this EMS. Green Skills innovative water recycling solutions. The addition of several wetlands including a Zoos Victoria will continue to expand the floating island wetland will improve the Skill Up Green program to train all staff quality of a number of water bodies. in sustainable practices. We will also implement three staff resource efficiency programs to reduce our carbon impacts by 10 per cent from the 2006-07 base-line.
Our Environmental Performance Below is the monitoring result of our environmental consumption indicators. Our baseline year is the 2006-07 financial year.
Notes: Resource 2009-10 2008-09 2007-08 2006-07 % change 1 Increased electricity consumption due to commissioning fr 2006-07 of Wild Sea at Melbourne Zoo (16%), and increased back of house animal husbandry activities and increased public visitation numbers (2%). 1 2 Electricity (MJ) 20,226,916 17,435,198 17,177,496 17,207,650 18% 2 Overall energy consumption has increased slightly apart from LPG due to increased development and activities Green Electricity 1 2 (MJ) 2,247,435 1,400,071 904,079 905,666 148% across the three campuses. 3 Decrease in LPG consumption was attributed to Healesville’s installation of the efficient electric heat pump 2 Natural Gas (MJ) 13,591,946 12,036,747 12,484,431 12,497,993 9% hot water system in replacement of the LPG hot water systems, and Werribee Open Range Zoo’s efficient animal husbandry management resulting in reductions of LGP 3 LPG (MJ) 186,135 452,401 412,696 634,055 -71% for heating. 4 Waste to landfill has increased due to increased visitation Waste to Landfill 4 (Tonnes) 776 519 291 500 55% numbers. This has a proportional effect on our recycling rate.
4 5 Potable water remains below the baseline year but there Recycling Rate (%) 56% 63% 78% 72% -22% was a slight increase from last year. This is again due to the increased activities across the three campuses. 5 Recycled water continues to be used at Melbourne Zoo Potable Water (KL) 187,291 164,778 161,080 198,180 -5% and Werribee Open Range Zoo in replacement of potable water. Recycled Water 4 (K) 193,800 175,187 139,092 117,000 66% 6 Greenhouse gas emissions has risen in proportion to the commissioning of Wild Sea at Melbourne Zoo and the increased activities across the three campuses. Total Greenhouse Gas 9,384 8,291 7,602 8,024 17% Our greenhouse gas inventory includes emissions from Emissions 6 (Tonnes CO2e) Scope 1,2 and 3 sources from vehicle fuels, purchased electricity, natural gas, LP gas and emissions from waste to landfill.
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 27 Our People Zoos Victoria supports the planning and delivery of quality professional development for all staff as we move towards becoming a world leading zoo-based conservation organisation.
This year we have been busy implementing Key Achievements HR ‘toolkit’ staff development programs that align This year, we have revised all significant with our new strategic direction. From Introduction of eZEPP Human Resources policies. These have leadership development for our senior been incorporated into a reference guide executives to improving the environmental Zoos Victoria has successfully implemented titled ‘Zoos Victoria Human Resources skills of all staff, we are investing in a new electronic employee performance Toolkit’ that is available to all staff online. developing well-qualified and confident plan for all staff. The electronic Zoo Employee Performance Plan – eZEPP - links staff that derive personal satisfaction from Leadership Program their work at our three zoos. key performance objectives of all staff to the Corporate Plan. The program also includes Zoos Victoria has introduced a In 2009-10 we have implemented a powerful organisational development tool comprehensive leadership development meaningful performance plans and new that guides career planning and ensures it is program for its senior executive team. human resource policies that can be aligned to the values of the organisation. The program titled ‘Leading Zoos accessed on-line by all staff. Victoria’s Transformation’ covers a At Zoos Victoria our animals might take Green Skills number of topics relating to three key centre stage but behind the scenes our In partnership with the Victorian areas; team development, leadership and staff are the most important asset. We Government, we have developed the organisational culture. Its aim is to build introduced free health checks and other Skill Up Green program to improve the knowledge of the entire team based on wellbeing programs and our professional environmental sustainability skills of zoo latest research, and to develop highly staff are improving their skills and work staff. The program initially assesses practical job and people skills. practices so we can provide the best the existing level of skills of staff then animal husbandry possible and deliver establishes learning and development conservation outcomes. programs to bridge skills gaps. A competency program has now been established for all life sciences including animal husbandry, wildlife conservation and science and veterinary science.
Our Workforce Profile
Employment As at 30/06/09 As at 30/06/10 Statistics Numbers % Numbers %
Employees 564 579 Male 230 40.8 236 40.8 Female 334 59.2 343 59.2 Casual 192 190 Male 61 31.8 60 31.6 Female 131 68.2 130 68.4 Full-time 288 292 Male 154 53.5 159 54.5 Female 134 46.5 133 45.5 Part-time 84 90 Male 15 17.9 17 19.0 Female 69 82.1 73 81.0 FTE Full-time & Part-time 338 339 FTE Casual 42 48.5 Indigenous Employees 4 5 Executive Officers 9 9 Senior Managers 35 37
28 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 Staff Agreement Accessibility Action Plan Equal Opportunity A new Salaried Staff Agreement covering Zoos Victoria’s Accessibility Action Plan Women comprise 59% of Zoos Victoria’s 300 employees was negotiated this 2009-12 (AAP) has been completed and staff including 44% of Zoos Victoria’s year. The agreement provides mutual is being implemented across the three senior executive including the CEO. Zoos benefits for both employer and employee properties. Zoos Victoria sees the AAP as a Victoria has also increased the availability through improved pay and conditions and critical part of our commitment to people of of part-time work across all disciplines in productivity gain. all abilities to access our services, facilities, response to employees with family and and programs across our three sites. lifestyle demands. Wellness Week This action plan requires Zoos Victoria to Recruitment and internal promotions are A new program was introduced to help improve access to existing facilities and based on merit and equity principles in improve the overall health and wellbeing services, and promote inclusiveness of compliance with the Public Administration of zoo staff. Wellness Week included people living with disabilities. The action Act 2004. a range of initiatives such as voluntary plan incorporates the principle of ‘universal Presently, Zoos Victoria is formulating health checks for all staff and professional accessibility’ in the planning of all site a Reconciliation Action Plan to provide health advice on how to stay healthy in the developments in accordance with the a range of opportunities for Indigenous workplace and at home. Disability Discrimination Act 1992, and the employment and engagement. As part of Disability Act 2006. Each property has the Reconciliation Action Plan clear targets Performance Snapshot established a reference group where our for Indigenous employment initiatives and committed actions are monitored Staff turnover for 2009-10 remained staffing levels will be set, that will support and reviewed. stable at 7.5%. Absenteeism through sick the Victorian Aboriginal Public Sector and carers leave averaged 47 hours per Throughout the planning and Employment and Career Development employee (full-time equivalent) for 2009-10. implementation process we consulted Action Plan 2010-15. Zoos Victoria has This compares with public sector average and established positive relationships a long association with the Indigenous of 48.5 hours per employee. with a number of disability agencies to community, and continues to work add value and enrich our goals. In raising towards improving outcomes for awareness and ensuring we build a culture Indigenous employment. within Zoos Victoria where accessibility Healesville Sanctuary has an Indigenous needs are part of our every-day decision- trainee program in place with an additional making process within our staff and trainee now working in the wildlife hospital. management team, we will be delivering A total of three Indigenous employees now disability awareness training across work at the Sanctuary. our properties over 2010-11 and will celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities on the 3 December 2010.
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 29 Our People
Occupational Health and Safety Priorities for the Zoos Victoria has a vision of zero harm Coming Year and zero injuries. A new Health and Safety Strategy and Operational Plan to obtain Training Programs this goal has been developed at the end of Zoos Victoria is continuing the the 2009-10 financial year in readiness for establishment of its training and further advancements in health and safety development programs to ensure staff practices for 2010-11. continue to improve their skills and keep The last 12 months has had a net result up to date with the latest environmental of 12 lost time injuries (LTIs), a target of 0 practices. The new programs will LTIs has been stated as an objective by be targeted to fill skill gaps identified 2015. A new strategy focusing on safety through the Skill Up Green program behaviours, practices and accountability at and assessment of the life sciences all levels will work towards achieving competency matrix. this objective. A variety of internal and external health Invigorate OHS Programs and safety training initiatives have been Over the coming year we will strengthen completed over the course of the last our Occupational Health and Safety year, with an emphasis placed on animal programs through the engagement of staff management and manual handling training in leadership positions. We will continue to which addresses the greatest risk and strive towards a reduction of injuries with rates of incidents. Over 170 employees an aim to reduce lost-time injury incidents have participated in various forms of health to zero. and safety training throughout 2009-10. Development of a Single Zoos Victoria has a solid Occupational Enterprise Agreement Health and Safety framework in place across all three properties but continues to In the coming year we will test the strive towards a reduction in the incidence feasibility of developing a single enterprise of injuries by reviewing and improving our agreement for all staff. The new agreement Health and Safety management and would provide better pay and conditions looking at opportunities to reduce our for staff while delivering greater workplace risk exposure. flexibility and productivity improvements. Each property has an active Health and Safety Committee that meets regularly and reports back to the senior executive at a property and Board level. Consistent improvements in safety practices and injury management have made a significant cost-saving contribution to the organisation with a reduction in our Workcover premium rate.
30 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 ZOOS VICTORIA ORGANISATIONAL CHART
Jenny Gray Chief Executive Officer
Ted McNamara Lawrence Tai Graeme Gillespie Katie Pahlow Pamela Kevin Tanner Sally Lewis John Gibbons Director Human Chief Financial Director Wildlife Director Visitor Sutton-Legaud Director Director Werribee Director Healesville Resources Officer Conservation and Community Director Melbourne Zoo Open Range Zoo Sanctuary and Science Development Zoos Victoria Senior HR Advisor IT Manager Foundation Senior Vet Curator of Horticulture Senior Vet Sustainability Manager GM Community HR Advisor - OH&S Finance Manager GM Operations Curator of Animals Habitat Manager Conservation Relationships Life Sciences Strategic HR Advisor - GM Assets Manager General Curator Visitor Experience Curator of Life Projects Manager GM Commercial Organisational Operations Manager Sciences Business Analyst Development Philanthropy Manger GM Visitor Experience Development Conservation Senior Operations Visitor Experience Partnership Manager GM Communications Philanthropy Executive Learning Experiences HR Advisor - Manager Manager Manager Talent Acquisition Senior Scientist GM Learning Strategy Grants Communication Visitor Development Learning Experiences Manager Retail Business HR Advisor - Support Officer and Learning Manager Manager Manager Operations & Payroll Strategic Development Retail Store Manager Communications Manager Manager Communications Manager GM Works Works Manager ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 REPORT ANNUAL VICTORIA ZOOS 31 CORPORATE PLAN Key Performance Indicators 2009-10
Action Area Measure Performance 2008-09 2009-10 Result Indicator Base Target
Conservation Number of recovery programs Number of programs 10 11 11
Conservation Number of threatened species bred Number of progeny 124 136 220 (+ 1375 Lord Howe Island Stick Insects)
Animals Alignment of the collection with New collection planning - - Achieved conservation objectives tool in place
Animals High standards of animal care Animal Management - - Achieved Manual completed
Visitors Total admission numbers (’000) Number (’000) 1,460 1,604 1,758
Visitors Quality of visitor experience Net promoter rating % 43% 45% 49%
Visitors Number of school visitors (‘000) Number (‘000) 148 156 168
Visitors Community conservation Number (‘000) 5 10 168 – number of people influenced to take conservation action
Visitors Number of environmental behaviour Number of campaigns - 3 4 change campaigns
People Staff climate survey conducted Plan of action on results - - Achieved – benchmark established and results devised and implemented aligned with our vision and professional development needs
People Development of electronic System established - All staff 95% full time performance management system and implemented participate and part time staff participate
People HR processes and policies revised and Completion of HR manual - All policies updated to deliver on core directions published Achieved
Financial Paid Admission 1 Number (‘000) 1,113 1,194 1,257 Sustainability
Financial Total Admissions Revenue 2 ($M) $20.7 $23.7 $25.2 Sustainability
Financial Total Net Contribution from ($M) $3.1 $3.0 $3.7 Sustainability Commercial Activities
Financial Total Operating Revenue excl Govt Grant 3 ($M) $26.7 $28.2 $33.2 Sustainability
Financial Total Operating Expenditure excl. ($M) $33.7 $34.3 $35.8 Sustainability asset renewal 4
Financial Asset maintenance ($M) $2.4 $2.3 $5.5 Sustainability
Financial Gross Contribution from fundraising ($M) $1.5 $2.2 $1.5 Sustainability
1 Includes Twilights but not other zoo activities. 2 Includes Zoo membership. 3 Operating Revenue includes net contribution from commercial activities. e.g. cost of operating the commercial activities were deducted from the gross revenue. 4 Operating expenses relates to expenditure for zoo operations only. Operating expenditure for commercial activities are deducted from the gross revenue and the net result of the activities are included in operating revenue.
32 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND OTHER DISCLOSURE
Manner of Establishment and The Zoological Parks & Gardens + To advise the Minister of matters relating Responsible Minister Act 1995 to the Board’s functions and powers or on any other matter referred to by the The Zoological Parks and Gardens Board The Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Minister is the governing body of Victoria’s three (ZPGB) operates under the Zoological great zoos: Melbourne Zoo, Healesville Parks and Gardens Act 1995 and has + To provide consultancy and advice Sanctuary and Werribee Open Range Zoo. responsibility for the Royal Melbourne services to the public on zoological Set up in 1973 as a Statutory Authority, Zoological Gardens, Healesville Sanctuary matters the Board’s role is to protect and promote and Werribee Open Range Zoo. Zoos + To provide services and facilities for the zoos and their roles in conservation, Victoria is the trading name for the visitors to the zoological parks and research and education. organisation managed by the Board. managed land The Board is appointed by the Victorian Objectives and Functions of the Board as + To carry out any other functions Minister for Environment and Climate set out in the Act, are: conferred on it by this or any other Act. Change, the Hon. Gavin Jennings. + To conserve, protect, manage and Duties reserved for the Board include: Our Patron: The Governor of Victoria, improve the zoological parks and Professor David de Kretser, A.C. managed land and the zoological + Approval of the strategic direction and vision Our Minister: The Hon. Gavin Jennings collections MLC, Minister for Environment and + To promote and increase public + Setting appropriate Board policies Climate Change. enjoyment of the zoological collections providing strategic, ethical and and the zoological parks and operational guidance managed land + Approval of annual and corporate plans + To increase public knowledge and + Approval of annual financial reports awareness of the zoological collections + Reviewing risks, governance and and the zoological parks through internal controls exhibition of the zoological collections, publications, educational programs, + Reporting to the Minister. advisory services and other activities + To carry out and promote zoological research, the conservation of wildlife and its natural habitats and the maintenance of biodiversity
Board Members No. Meetings No. Meetings Appointed Eligible to Attend Attended
Andrew Fairley 7 7 Appointed Chair 17/4/07 Gaye Hamilton 7 7 Appointed 17/4/07 Pru Sanderson 7 3 Reappointed 21/5/08 Nick Whitby 7 5 Reappointed 21/5/08 Kimberley Dripps 7 6 Appointed 30/4/08 Dr Kenneth Hinchcliff 7 6 Appointed 21/5/08 Mary Gillett 7 5 Appointed 21/5/08 Dr Irene Irvine 7 6 Appointed 21/5/08 Helen Thornton 2 2 Appointed March 2010
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 33 Board Profiles
Mr Andrew Fairley Mr Nicholas Whitby Dr Kenneth Hinchcliff LLB FAICD BBus BVSc (Hons), MS, PhD, DACVIM Chair Nick was reappointed to the Board in 1995 Kenneth was appointed to the Board in Andrew Fairley was appointed to the and is Managing Director of Grollo Leisure 2008 and is a graduate of the Melbourne Board as Chair in April 2007. He came to & Tourism. Nick has responsibility for a Veterinary School and Dean of the Faculty the Board with more than two decades range of businesses and assets including of Veterinary Science at the University experience in the sustainable tourism property development, ski lift operations, of Melbourne. He has completed an sector. Andrew is an equity lawyer with hospitality and retail assets. Nick has a advanced training program in large animal DLA Phillips Fox and has in excess of 30 well-established understanding of the internal medicine at the University of years experience in the specialist field of tourism sector and the interaction between Wisconsin-Madison, and a PhD at the superannuation and trusts. commercial operations and government. Ohio State University. Kenneth was a He is Chair of Equipsuper Superannuation faculty member in the College of Veterinary Ms Gaye Hamilton Fund, and a member of the Deakin Medicine at OSU, rising to professor before Investment Advisory Committee. He is BSc (Ed) joining the University of Melbourne in 2007. also a Director of a number of private client Gaye was appointed to the Board in Ms Mary Gillett family enterprises. April 2007. After beginning her career BArts He chairs the Sir Andrew Fairley Foundation. as a secondary school teacher, Gaye has previously held senior positions with Mary was appointed to the Board in Dr Irene Irvine the Victorian Department of Education May 2008. She developed her interest and Museums Victoria as well as Zoos in Victoria’s zoos serving as the State Bsc, PhD, DipEd, GradDip Admin Victoria. She is also a Board member Member for Werribee for 10 years, from Irene Irvine was appointed to the Board of the Queen Victoria Women’s Centre 1996 to 2006. As the local member Mary as Deputy Chair in April 2008. Irene has Trust, the Victorian State Sports Centre’s worked closely with Werribee Open Range extensive experience in the education Trust, Seaworks’ Foundation, the People Zoo and Zoos Victoria to secure funding for sector, holding a number of senior and Parks Foundation and the Western a number of major developments. Prior to executive appointments. Dr Irene Irvine Bulldogs Football Club. entering Parliament, Mary worked with the is Chair of Phillip Island Nature Park. She former Federated Storemen and Packers is also on the Boards of State Trustees Ms Kimberley Dripps Union (now the National Union of Workers). Limited and Melbourne Girls’ College and BVSc (Hons), MBA Her early career saw her have roles with has previously been a board member the Australian Tax Office and the Industrial Kimberley was appointed to the Board of Craft Victoria and Camberwell Girls’ Relations Commission. Grammar School. in April 2008. Kimberley practised as a vet for six years before joining the Ms Helen Thornton Ms Prudence Sanderson Department of Natural Resources and B.Ec ACA Environment in 1999. She undertook a BArch (Hons), Grad Dip Arch Cons, range of roles focussed on policy and Helen was appointed to the Board in Dip CD AICD program development and management February 2010 and was appointed as Pru was reappointed to the Board before being appointed as Director Chair of the Audit & Risk and Compliance in May 2005 and is the CEO of the Business Strategy and Services. Until Committee in March 2010. Helen has Victorian Government’s sustainable May 2010, Kimberley was Executive extensive experience in risk management urban development authority. An Director Biodiversity and Ecosystem and both internal and external audit and honours graduate in architecture, Pru Services, Department of Sustainability and has worked in a number of executive has held senior positions delivering major Environment, managing policy, programs positions in the private sector. She was an infrastructure projects including Design and research to benefit Victoria’s rich independent member of the Audit & Risk Manager for Melbourne Museum and biodiversity. Kimberley is currently Executive and Compliance Committee for a number of Manager of Development and Operations Director of Intergovernmental Relations years prior to her appointment to the Board. for Federation Square. Pru has also and Land, Planning and Environment Helen is also on the Boards of Rural Finance served in local government with the City of for the Regional Rail Link Project at the Corporation and Big Sky Credit Union. Melbourne and the City of Whitehorse. Department of Transport.
34 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 Board Committees The Board has established the following committees, which oversee the Governance and Compliance requirements of the Zoological Parks and Gardens Board:
Name of Committee ZV Board Members Zoos Victoria Independent Committee Responsibility Management Members
Business To advise, monitor and make recommendations Nick Whitby (Chair) CEO N/A Development to the Board in relation to business plans, Andrew Fairley Committee funding models, long-range planning, branding Gaye Hamilton and environmental and social impacts. Pru Sanderson Helen Thornton
Remuneration To advise, monitor and make recommendations Irene Irvine (Chair) CEO N/A and Governance to the Board of Directors in relation to executive Andrew Fairley HR Director Committee remuneration, overarching industrial relations Ken Hinchcliff policies and guidelines and governance matters, nominations to Board positions and strategic risk management.
Audit, Risk and To review the quality of financial reporting, Helen Thornton (Chair) CEO Peter Riley Compliance the financial management of the capital (Appointed 22/03/2010) CFO (from 16/6/10) Committee development program, review financial risk Kimberley Dripps management procedures and monitor regulatory, (Acting Chair to 31/12/2009) legal and internal control compliance. Irene Irvine
Science Advisory To advise and assist Zoos Victoria in discharging Dr Ken Hinchcliff (Chair) Director Wildlife David Choquenot Committee its responsibilities in relation to science, research Conservation, Mak Bergman and conservation activities. The Committee Senior Veterinarian Andrew Bennett consists of senior Zoos Victoria staff, a nominated Sally Cockburn representative from the Department of Padriag Duignan Sustainability and Environment and at least three Sze Flett independent external members with recognised David Gardner scientific and research disciplines. Betty Weiler Andrew Fisher
Animal Welfare To confirm that the care of animals is conducted Kimberley Dripps (Chair) CEO Duncan Mackellar Peer Review in accordance with Zoos Victoria and industry Mary Gillett Senior Veterinarian Graham Mitchell Committee policies and procedures, review all animal welfare John Henley incident reports and peer review decisions made and conclusions drawn from any investigation into issues from complaints or concerns about animal welfare. A separate report is provided on the Animal Welfare Peer Review Committee as an addendum to this annual report.
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 35 CORPOrATE GOVERNANCE AND OTHER DISCLOSURE
Attestation on Compliance with the Industry standards and ZAA Major External Reviews Australian/New Zealand Zoos Victoria as a member of the Zoos and No major external reviews were carried out Risk Management Standard Aquariums Association is committed to the on Zoos Victoria in 2009-10. I, Chair of the Audit and Risk and ZAA accreditation process. Accreditation Compliance Committee of the Board certify ensures that member zoos have consistent Subsequent Events that the Zoological Parks and Gardens standards of operation and animal welfare. There were no matters subsequent to Board has risk management processes Zoos Victoria is represented on the the financial report being finalised that in place consistent with the Australian/ ZAA Accreditation and Animal Welfare significantly affect finances. New Zealand Risk Management Standard Committee, and has four members of and an internal control system is in place staff who fulfill the role of ZAA Significant Changes in the Financial that enables the executive to understand, accreditation officers. All three properties Position During the Year manage and satisfactorily control risk are ZAA accredited. exposures. The Zoological Parks and There were no significant changes in the Gardens Board verifies this assurance and Freedom of Information financial position during the year. that the risk profile of the Zoological Parks The Freedom of Information Act 1982 and Gardens Board has been critically Disclosure of Major Contracts allows the public a right of access to reviewed within the last 12 months. No contracts of over $10 million were documents held by the Board. For the entered into in the reporting period. 12 months ending 30 June 2010, the Board received one application. Consultancies Number Number Details of consultancies over $100,000 Helen Thornton Details 2009-10 2008-09 Chair Consultant Nil Access granted in part 1 4 Audit and Risk Management Committee Project Nil Access denied in full 0 0 Zoological Parks and Gardens Board $’000 ex gst 5 August 2010 No. Documents 0 0 Total approved project fee Nil Matters not finalised 0 0 Expenditure 2009-10 Nil Total 1 4 Future expenditure Nil Requests as detailed in Section 17 of the Jennifer Gray FOI Act must be made in writing along with Chief Executive Officer Details of consultancies under $100,000 the prescribed fee of $23.90 (as at 1 July Zoos Victoria Consultancies engaged during the year 2010) to: 5 August 2010 where total fees was less than $100,000
Contact Details: Number 3 FOI Officer $’000 ex gst PO Box 74 Expenditure 2009-10 $44 Parkville Vic 3052 Future expenditure Nil Telephone: (03) 9285 9300 Facsimile: (03) 9285 9330 Email: [email protected] A written response will be forwarded to the applicant in accordance with the Act.
36 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 National Competition Policy The Board will take all reasonable steps to The Ombudsman Victoria protect people who make such disclosures Competitive neutrality seeks to enable fair The Ombudsman Victoria from any detrimental action in reprisal for competition between government and Level 9, 459 Collins St (North Tower) making the disclosure. It will also afford private sector businesses. Any advantages Melbourne Vic 3000 natural justice to the person who is the or disadvantages that government Telephone: (03) 9613 6222 subject of the disclosure. businesses may experience, simply as a Toll Free: 1800 806 314 result of government ownership, should Reporting Procedures [email protected] be neutralised. Zoos Victoria continues to www.ombudsman.vic.gov.au implement and apply this principle in its Disclosures of improper conduct or business undertakings. detrimental action by the Board or its Further Information employees may be made to the following Written guidelines outlining the system for Whistleblower Protection Act 2001 officers: reporting disclosures of improper conduct The Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 The Protected Disclosure Coordinator or detrimental action by the Zoological encourages and assists people in making Ms Amanda Embury Parks and Gardens Board’s employees are disclosures of improper conduct by Zoological Parks and Gardens Board available on the Board’s website. public officers and public bodies. The Act Locked Bag 210 PO provides protection to people who make Parkville Vic 3052 Disclosures Under the Whistleblowers disclosures in accordance with the Act Telephone: (03) 9285 9419 Protection Act and establishes a system for the matters Protected Disclosure Officer 2010 2009 disclosed to be investigated and rectifying Details Number Number action to be taken. Mr Lawrence Tai Zoological Parks and Gardens Board The number and types The Board does not tolerate improper of disclosures made to Locked Bag 210 PO conduct by employees, nor the taking public bodies during Parkville Vic 3052 of reprisals against those who come the year: Nil Nil Telephone: (03) 9285 9488 forward to disclose such conduct. It is Any recommendations committed to ensuring transparency and Alternatively, disclosures of improper made by the Ombudsman accountability in its administrative and conduct or detrimental action by the that relate to the management practices and supports the Zoological Parks and Gardens Board’s public body: Nil Nil making of disclosures that reveal corrupt employees may also be made directly to: conduct, conduct involving a substantial Stopline mismanagement of public resources, Zoological Parks and Gardens Board or conduct involving a substantial c/o STOPLINE risk to public health and safety or the Locked Bag 8 environment. Hawthorn Vic 3122 Telephone: 1300 30 45 50 Facsimile: (03) 9882 4480 Attention: The Zoo c/o STOPLINE [email protected] www.stopline.com.au
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 37 CORPOrATE GOVERNANCE AND OTHER DISCLOSURE
Compliance Statement for the Building work Pecuniary Interest Disclosures Financial Management The major building work in 2009-10 was Board members are required to complete The Zoological Parks and Gardens construction of the new Wild Sea exhibit a statement of pecuniary interest including Board of Victoria has complied with the and Gorilla Rainforest Classroom at any relevant shareholdings during the year Financial Compliance Framework Direction Melbourne Zoo and the Orange-bellied and have done so. Members are also given requirements. Parrot breeding facility at Healesville the opportunity to declare specific interest Sanctuary. Work for the new Wild Sea at the start of each Board meeting. Major Changes or Factors Affecting exhibit started in August 2008 and was Performance completed in December 2010. Implementation of the Victorian There were no major issues or factors Zoos Victoria ensures that all building Industry Participation Policy during the year that significantly affected projects were constructed by registered In October 2003, the Victorian Parliament financial or operational performance builders in accordance with approved passed the Victorian Industry Participation throughout the year. drawings and specifications. The exhibits Policy Act 2003 which requires public are now being used by the staff and public. bodies and Departments to report on the Compliance With the Building All had plans certified, works in progress implementation of the Victorian Industry Act 1993 inspected and Occupancy Permits issued Participation Policy (VIPP). Departments The Zoological Parks and Gardens where required by independent Building and public bodies are required to apply Board Victoria complies with building Surveyors. VIPP in all tenders over $3 million in management provisions of the Building Act metropolitan Melbourne and $1 million in Maintenance 1993. The Zoological Parks and Gardens regional Victoria. Board Victoria ensures that all works Maintenance and improvement works are Details of contracts to which VIPP applies requiring building approval have plans regularly carried out on Zoological Parks Contract commenced Number Value certified, works in progress inspected and and Gardens Board’s buildings to ensure Occupancy Permits issued by independent that they are maintained in a safe and 2009-10 0 0 Building Surveyors engaged on a local job serviceable condition. Contract completed Number Value by job basis. It also ensures that plans for Conformity these works are lodged with the relevant 2009-10 1 $14M local council. Work is continuing to ensure that all existing buildings conform to standards. The Zoological Parks and Gardens Board Victoria requires all building practitioners engaged on building works to be registered and maintain registration throughout the course of the works.
38 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 Statement of Availability of Other + Details of major promotional, public Information relations and marketing activities undertaken to develop community The following information is available awareness of Zoos Victoria and its on request, subject to the Freedom of services Information Act 1982: + Details of assessments and measures + A statement that declarations of undertaken to improve the occupational pecuniary interests have been duly health and safety of employees completed by all relevant officers + A general statement on industrial + Details of shares held by a senior officer relations within Zoos Victoria and details as nominee or held beneficially in a of lost time through industrial accidents statutory authority or subsidiary and disputes + Details of publications produced by Zoos + A list of major committees sponsored Victoria about itself, and how these can by Zoos Victoria, the purposes of each be obtained committee and the extent to which + Details of changes in prices, fees, purposes have been achieved. charges, rates and levies charged by This information is available on Zoos Victoria request from: + Details of any major external reviews FOI Officer carried out on Zoos Victoria Zoos Victoria + Details of major research and PO Box 74 development activities undertaken by Parkville Vic 3052 Zoos Victoria Telephone: (03) 9285 9488 + Details of overseas visits undertaken Facsimile: (03) 9285 9330 including a summary of the objectives Email: [email protected] and outcomes of each visit
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 39 PUBLICATIONS
Banks CB and Thomas J (2009) Joint Harlow HJ, Purwandana D, Jessop McLelland DJ, Rich BG and Holz PH venture. World Conservation April 2009: TS and Phillips JA (2010) Size related (2009) The pharmacokinetics of single p17. differences in the thermoregulatory habits dose intramuscular amoxicillin trihydrate Banks CB, Lau MWN and D Dudgeon of Komodo dragons. International journal of in tammar wallabies (Macropus eugenii). (2008) Captive management and breeding Zoology: in press. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 40: of Romer’s Tree Frog Chirixalus romeri. Holz PH, Orbell GMB and Beveridge I 113-116. International Zoo Yearbook 42: 99-108. (2010) Sarcoptic mange in a wild swamp Parkar U, Traub RJ, Vitali S, Elliot A, Levecke B, Robertson I, Geurden T, Chan R, Stuart-Fox D and Jessop TS wallaby (Wallabia bicolor). Australian Steele J, Drake B and Thompson RCA (2009) Why are females ornamented? Veterinary Journal. In press. A test of the courtship stimulation and Imansyah J, Jessop TS, Sumner JS, (2010) Molecular characterisation of courtship rejection hypothesis. Behavioral Purwandana A and Agento S (2009) Blastocystis isolates from zoo animals Ecology 20: 1334-1342. Distribution, seasonal use, and predation and their animal-keepers. Veterinary Parasitology 169: 8-17. Cuddy NJ (2009) Nature Based Tourism of incubation mounds of Orange-footed Phalen DN, Holz PH, Rassmussen L Conference “International Marketing Tips Scrubfowl on Komodo Island, Indonesia. and Bayley C and Tricks”. Journal of Field Ornithology 80: 119-126. (2010) Fatal Columbid Jessop TS, Chan R and Stuart-Fox Herpesvirus-1 infections in three species Cuddy NJ (2009) Tourism Excellence – D (2009) Sex steroid correlates of of Australian birds of prey. Journal of Avian Western Melbourne Tourism “Package and Medicine and Surgery. In press. Product Development”. female-specific colouration, behaviour and reproductive state in Lake Eyre Singh D, Dixson BJ, Jessop TS, Morgan Doody JS, Gillespie G, Susanto D, Ul- dragons lizards, Ctenophorus. Journal of B and Dixson AF (2010) Cross-cultural hasanah AU, Marín J and Mitchell R (2010) Comparative physiology A – Neuroethology attractiveness of the female hourglass Rhabdophis chrysargoides (gunther’s sensory neural and Behavioral Physiology. figure. Evolution and Human Behavior keelback snake). Mating behaviour. 195: 619-630. 31:171-176. Herpetological Review (In press). Jessop TS, Sumner J, Rudiharto H, Slocombe RF, McCowan C, Wang J and Doody JS, Usman Ul-Hasanah AU, Phillips JA and Ciofi C (2010) Associations Holz PH Avian pox in crimson rosellas Shelton M and Gillespie G (2010) Draco in the host-parasite dynamics between (Platycercus elegans) in southern Australia. beccarii (Beccar’s Flying Dragon). Nesting. Komodo dragons and their ectoparasites. Avian Pathology. In press. Herpetological Review (In press). Australian Zoologist: in press. Stokeld Davenport D 2010. Gould’s Gillespie G (2010) Population age structure Jessop TS, Urlus J, Lockwood T and Wattled Bat (Chalinolobus gouldii) at of the spotted tree frog (Litoria spenceri): Gillespie G (2010) Preying Possum: Melbourne Zoo. In: Barnard, S. M. (ed.) insights into population decline. Wildlife Assessment of the diet of lace monitors Bats in Captivity Volume 2: Aspects of Research 37: 19-26. (Varanus varius) from coastal forests in Rehabilitation. Washington D.C.: Logos Haynes L, Arzey E, Bell C, Buchanan N, Eastern Victoria. Biawak: in press. Press. Burgess G, Cronan V, Dickason C, Field Lowry RL (2009) Visitor Based Young LJ, McFarlane R and Holz PH H, Gibbs S, Hansbro PM, Hollingsworth Conservation Campaigns at Zoos Victoria Observations on morphology and relative T, Hurt AC, Kirkland P, McCracken H, Australasian Association of Zoos Parks and leukocyte values in the peripheral blood of O’Connor J, Tracey J, Wallner J, Warner Aquaria. two endangered marsupial species. Zoo S, Woods R and Bunn C (2009) Australian Lowry RJ and Gray J Biology. In press. surveillance for avian influenza viruses in (2009) Using wild birds between July 2005 and June Conservation Education To Bring About 2007. Australian Veterinary Journal 87: Behaviour Change. World Association of 266-272. Zoos and Aquaria.
40 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 Conference proceedings AND presentations
Baker R (2010) The Christmas Island Hollis K and Hammersley G (2010) The Squires B (2010) A Zoo Conservation Pipistrelle (Pipistrellus murrayi). Issues use of Alfaxalone as a Chemical Restraint program that’s all about People; the Zoos in conserving wildlife ecosystems or in Reptiles - A preliminary study. VNCA Victoria-Melako Partnership. Zoo Aquarium threatened species. Zoo Aquarium Zoo & Wildlife Nursing conference 2010. Association Conference 2010. Association Conference 2010. Killeen S (2010) C-U-A – the Experience. Thomas J, Elton I and Watson P (2009) Baker R (2010) The response of Zoos Presented at the Education, Interpretation Reproduction and longevity of captive Victoria in wild animal care during the and Visitor Experience Special Advisory Platypus at Healesville Sanctuary. Platypus Black Saturday Bushfires. Zoo Aquarium Group as part of the Zoo and Aquarium Forum, Hobart, Australia. Association Conference 2010. Association, Melbourne, Australia. Thomas J, Elton I, Watson P and Cartwright K and McCulloch B (2010) Killeen S and Pastorelli J (2010) POWER Muehlenberg A (2010) Uncertain future Two decades of community-driven of Presentations Workshop. National for the Platypus: The challenges and conservation: Friends of the Helmeted Association of Interpreters Conference, recent advances associated with ex situ Honeyeater ensure its survival. Zoo Townsville, Australia conservation strategies for this species. Aquarium Association Conference 2010. Killeen S and Pastorelli J (2009) POWER Zoo Aquarium Association Conference Castellano C and Doody S (2010) of Presentations Workshop. Interpretation 2010. Madagascar’s Tortoises on the Brink of Australia Association Conference, Rota Waldon S Tyger, Tyger, Burning Bright: Extinction. Zoo Aquarium Association Rua, New Zealand. Connections to Tigers and Ecotourism Conference 2010. Liu B and Finlay Y (2010) Banyak Binatang at Melbourne Zoo (2009) Geography Coleman S and McCabe K (2010) Victorian Indonesian Language Teachers Teachers Association of Victoria Annual Corporate Programs Zoo and Aquarium Association Conference 2010 Conference. Association Annual Conference Watson P, West M, Parrott M and Mack Livermore D (2010) Extending the reach of Proceedings 2010. M Community Conservation Campaigns. Zoo (2010) Captive breeding of the critically Cooper M (2010) Saving the critically Aquarium Association Conference 2010. endangered Mountain Pygmy-possum: An endangered Tenkile Dendrolagus scottae investment in species conservation. Zoo Lowry R (2010) Community Conservation and Weimang Dendrolagus pulcherrimus: Aquarium Association Conference 2010. at Zoos Victoria – Behaviour Change An NGO’s approach to influencing Yoong K in Practice. Zoo Aquarium Association (2010) Seven Crucial Steps to environmental attitudes and driving Conference 2010. Environmental Sustainability. Zoo Aquarium behaviour change in the Torricelli Mountain Association Conference 2010. Range, Sandaun Province - Papua New McCabe K and Coleman S (2010) Yoong K (2009) Environmental Guinea (PNG). Zoo Aquarium Association Corporate Animals. Zoo Aquarium Sustainability at Zoos Victoria, Conference 2010. Association Conference 2010. Sustainability Roundtable 2009. Eastley T and Blanck A (2010) Wild diets Parrott M and Selwood L (2010) Mate Yoong K (2010) Environmental for captive Tasmanian Devils: Is this the choice increases the success of captive Sustainability at Zoos Victoria, Monash way to improved health and management breeding programs: Implications for World Environment Day Awards 2010. of this species? Australasian Society of endangered species conservation. Zoo Zoo Keeping, Adelaide, Australia. Aquarium Association Conference 2010. Gilmartin J, Morato N and Ong M Robertson J (2010) Feeling the heat: (2010) Zoos Today: Becoming Leaders in communicating in a crisis. Zoo Aquarium Conservation and Skills for Sustainability. Association Conference 2010. Zoo Aquarium Association Conference Smith L and Pahlow K (2010) When does 2010. the zoo turn into a nag? (Part II). Zoo Gray J (2010) Zoo-Based Conservation Aquarium Association Conference 2010. Organisation – The next evolution for Zoos? Zoo Aquarium Association Conference 2010.
ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 41 Our Partners AND Supporters
Zoos Victoria Guardian Champion Zoos Victoria Government Foundation CSL Limited Mrs Venise Alstergren Partners & Partners Supporters Mrs Paula and Mr Lindsay Commonwealth Bank – Supporters Commissioner Fox Healesville for Environmental Visionary Major Partners Sustainability Estate of Reginald Gregory Estate of Kevin S Cowell Estate of Jean Coats Reid Cadbury Schweppes Federal Government, Integrated Group Limited Estate of Ethel Marguerite Estate of Alexia Fuller Delaware North Catering Department of the John T Reid Charitable Cowell Ham Environment, Water, Estate of Ethel Marguerite Australia Trust Estate of Shirley Poole Heritage and the Arts Cowell Ham Friends of the Zoos Ltd Lord Mayor’s Charitable Healesville Sanctuary Cash Federal Government, Estate of Douglas Page Husqvarna Foundation Donation Department of Agriculture, RACV Nestle Peters Estate of Winifred I E Mrs Barbara Shearer Fisheries and Forestry The Yulgilbar Foundation Mackenzie The Governing Council of Community Partners NSW Department of Mr Ian McLeod the Cat Fancy Victoria & Environment & Climate Luminary Australian Tourism Export Change Melbourne Veterinary Australia Equity Trustees: Albert Council Specialist Centre ResourceSmart George & Nancy Caroline Hero City West Water Victorian Department Youngman Trust Merrin Foundation Alvis Car Club of Victoria Geelong Otway Tourism of Sustainability and HGK Foundation Mrs Eva and Mr Dan Club Australia Mission Australia Environment Presser Husqvarna Mr Mark Collins RACV Victorian Department of Suzuki Australia Ian Potter Foundation Primary Industries Ms Julie Crewes Western Melbourne The Dyson Bequest Estate of Heather Tourism Tourism Australia Geelong College Naughtons Leader Preparatory School Wyndham City Council Tourism Victoria Pental Products Aussie Recycling Program German Shepherd Dog Yarra Ranges Regional Industry Partners PETstock Club of Victoria Inc. Marketing Bendigo Bank Telco Australian Tourism Export Mr George Calombaris Mrs Diana Ruzzene-Grollo Community Council and Rino Grollo Ms Lyndsey Cattermole Conservation Zoo and Aquarium Mr Peter Helder Clark Rubber Partners Association Melbourne Zoo Cash Aussie Recycling Program Davis & Marks Lawyers Donation International Joan D Oliver Friends of the Helmeted Conservation Misa Miscellaneous Zoo Honeyeater LA Precast Income Partners Greening Australia Mattioli Brothers Rehab Med Students Fauna & Flora International Association – University of Hutan Merle Carroll Assistance Hutan Alberta Jane Goodall Institute Fund Jane Goodall Institute Richmond RSL Australia Suzuki Mabuwaya Foundation Rotary Club of Footscray Mabuwaya Foundation The Kathleen Agnes Back Northern Rangelands Trust Estate Miss Shirley Sullivan Melako Community Conservancy Tenkile Conservation The Vizard Foundation The Friends School Alliance Melbourne Museum Threatened Species Upwey High School Year 8 Melbourne Water Media Partners Donation Box Mr Stephen Walmsley Zoo and Aquarium National Centre for Herald Sun Mr Alan Ward Sustainability Association Melbourne’s Child Werribee Zoo Cash Parks Victoria Donations Network Ten Royal Botanic Gardens Mrs Ann Williams Research Partners Education Partners Deakin University Catholic Education Monash University Commission of Victoria The University of Catholic Education Office Melbourne Department of Education Victoria University, & Early Childhood Wellington Development Firestarter Supporters Greening Australia Commissioner The Australian Ballet for Environmental Sustainability Victoria Ian Potter Foundation Seeding Victoria Vision for Werribee Plains
42 ZOOS VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT 2009-10 2009-10 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Accountable officer’s and chief finance and accounting officer’s declaration
We certify that the attached financial statements for the Zoological Parks and Gardens Board have been prepared in accordance with Standing Direction 4.2 of the Financial Management Act 1994, applicable Financial Reporting Directions, Australian Accounting Standards, including interpretations, and other mandatory professional reporting requirements. We further state that, in our opinion, the information set out in the comprehensive operating statement, balance sheet, statement of changes in equity, cash flow statement and notes forming part of the financial statements, presents fairly the financial transactions during the year ended 30 June 2010 and financial position of the Zoological Parks and Gardens Board at 30 June 2010. We are not aware of any circumstance which would render any particulars included in the financial statements to be misleading or inaccurate. We authorise the attached financial statements for issue on 12th August 2010.
Andrew EJ Fairley Kevin Tanner Lawrence Tai Chairman Acting Chief Executive Officer Chief Financial Officer
12 August 2010
44 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Comprehensive operating statement for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
2010 2009 Notes $’000 $’000
Income from transactions
Revenue 1(j)(2(a) 37,171 32,200
Government Grants 2(b) 11,487 14,591
Other income 2(c) 3,320 5,123
Total income from transactions 51,978 51,914
Expenses from transactions
Employee benefits 1(k)(viii),3(a) (28,821) (27,887)
Supplies and services 1(k)(vii),3(b) (14,385) (14,511)
Depreciation and amortisation 1(k)(ii)&(iii),3(c) (6,117) (5,499)
Other operating expenses 3(d) (2,890) (2,616)
Finance expense 1(k)(v),3(e) (25) (29)
Total expenses from transactions (52,238) (50,542)
Net result from transactions (net operating balance) (260) 1,372
Other economic flows included in net result
Net gain/(loss) on non financial assets 12(a) 30 30
Net gain/(loss) on financial asset 12(b) - (276)
Total other economic flows included in net result 30 (246)
Net result (230) 1,126
Other economic flows – other non owner changes in equity
Changes in physical asset revaluation reserve 13(a) 4,700 (2,711)
Financial assets available for sale reserve - Transferred to profit or loss for the period 13(b) - (309)
Total other economic flows – Other non owner changes in equity 4,700 (3,020)
Comprehensive result 4,470 (1,894)
The comprehensive operating statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 45 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Balance sheet as at 30 June 2010
2010 2009 Notes $’000 $’000
Assets
Financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents 1(l)(i),15(a),22(h) 32,378 21,560
Receivables 1(l)(ii),4,22(h) 1,021 1,867
Other financial assets 1(l)(iii),5,22(h) - 10,990
Total financial assets 33,399 34,417
Non financial assets
Inventories 1(l)(iv) 1,445 1,125
Property, plant and equipment & vehicles 1(l)(vii),7(a)&7(b) 191,504 184,378
Intangible assets 1(l)(v),6 500 551
Prepayments 86 56
Defined Benefit Plan 1(k)(ix),8(b) - 59
Total non financial assets 193,535 186,169
Total assets 226,934 220,586
Liabilities
Payables 1(m)(i),9,22(h) 2,691 3,476
Borrowings 1(m)(ii),10,22(h) 280 415
Provisions 1(m)(iii),11 6,478 6,680
Total liabilities 9,449 10,571
Net assets 217,485 210,015
Equity
Accumulated surplus/(deficit) 10,593 10,823
Contribution by owners 1(c) 104,423 101,423
Reserves 13 102,469 97,769
Total equity 217,485 210,015
Commitments for expenditure 16
Contingent liabilities and contingent assets 19
The above balance sheet should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
46 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Statement of changes in equity for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Total Transactions compre with owners in Equity at -hensive their capacity Equity at Notes 1 July 2009 result as owners 30 June 2010
Accumulated surplus/(deficit) 10,823 (230) 10,593
Sub Total accumulated surplus/(deficit) 10,823 (230) 10,593
Contributions by owners 83,953 83,953
Capital appropriations 17,470 3,000 20,470
Sub Total – contribution by owners 101,423 3,000 104,423
Physical asset revaluation reserve 13(a) 97,769 4,700 102,469
Sub Total – reserves 97,769 4,700 102,469
Total equity at end of financial year 210,015 4,470 3,000 217,485
Total Transactions compre with owners in Equity at -hensive their capacity Equity at Notes 1 July 2008 result as owners 30 June 2009
Accumulated surplus/(deficit) 10,006 1,126 11,132 Financial assets available for sale reserve - Transferred to profit or loss for the period (309) (309)
Sub Total accumulated surplus/(deficit) 10,006 817 10,823
Contributions by owners 83,953 83,953
Capital appropriations 10,555 6,915 17,470
Sub Total – contribution by owners 94,508 6,915 101,423
Physical asset revaluation reserve 13(a) 100,480 (2,711) 97,769
Financial assets available for sale reserve 13(b) (309) 309 -
Sub Total – reserves 100,171 (2,711) 309 97,769
Total equity at end of financial year 204,685 (1,894) 7,224 210,015
The above statement of changes in equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 47 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Cash flow statement for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
2010 2009 Notes $’000 $’000
Cash flows from operating activities
Receipts
Receipts from government 12,233 14,341
Sponsorship received 1,806 2,552
Receipts from admission 22,445 19,520
Receipts from sales of goods 6,230 5,615
Receipts from other sources 11,301 8,914
Goods and services tax recovered from the ATO 220 1,236
Interest received 1,034 1,643
Investment income received 49 14
Total receipts 55,318 53,835
Payments
Payments to suppliers (20,425) (19,315)
Payments to employees (28,796) (27,145)
Interest and other costs of finance paid (25) (29)
Total payments (49,246) (46,489)
Net cash flows from/(used in) operating activities 15(b) 6,072 7,346
Cash flows from investing activities
Payment for investment (31) (10,045)
Payments for Property, Plant & Office Equipment & Vehicles (9,256) (15,940)
Payments for Intangible assets (13) (97)
Proceeds from redemption of investment 11,198 -
Proceeds from sale of Plant & Office Equipment & Vehicles 108 90
Net cash flows from/(used in) investing activities 2,006 (25,992)
Cash flows from financing activities
Owner contributions by State Government 3,000 6,915
Repayment of finance leases (139) (163)
Repayment of borrowings (121) (178)
Net cash flows from/(used in) financing activities 2,740 6,574
Net increase/ (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 10,818 (12,072)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the financial year 21,560 33,632
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the financial year 15(a) 32,378 21,560
The above cash flow statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.
48 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 1 - Summary of Significant The accounting policies set out below ‘Other economic flows’ are changes Accounting Policies have been applied in preparing the arising from market re-measurements. financial report for the year ended They include gains and losses from a) Statement of compliance 30 June 2010 and the comparative disposals, revaluations and impairments information presented for the year ended of non-current physical and intangible The financial report is a general 30 June 2009. assets; actuarial gains and losses arising purpose financial report which has from defined benefit superannuation been prepared on an accrual basis c) Equity plans; fair value changes of financial in accordance with the Financial instruments and agricultural assets; Management Act 1994 and applicable Contributions by owners and depletion of natural assets (non- Australian Accounting Standards and Additions to net assets which have produced) from their use or removal. Interpretations (AASs). AASs include been designated as contributions by Australian equivalents to International owners are recognised as contributed The net result is equivalent to profit or Financial Reporting Standards. capital. Other transfers that are in the loss derived in accordance with AASs. In complying AASs, the entity nature of contributions or distributions Balance sheet have also been designated as has, where relevant, applied those Assets and liabilities are presented in contributions by owners. paragraphs applicable to not for profit liquidity order with assets aggregated entities. Transfers of net assets arising from into, financial assets and non-financial administrative restructurings are treated assets. b) Basis of accounting preparation and as distributions to or contributions by Current and non-current assets measurement owners. and liabilities (those expected to be The accrual basis of accounting has recovered or settled beyond 12 months) d) Scope and presentation of financial been applied in the preparation of these are disclosed in the notes, where statements financial statements whereby assets, relevant. liabilities, equity, income and expenses Comprehensive operating statement Statement of changes in equity are recognised in the reporting period Income and expenses in the to which they relate, regardless of when The statement of changes in equity comprehensive operating statement are cash is received or paid. presents reconciliations of each classified according to whether or not non-owner and owner equity opening In the application of the AASs, they arise from ‘transactions’ or ‘other balance at the beginning of the management is required to make economic flows’. This classification is reporting period to the closing balance judgments, estimates and assumptions consistent with the whole of government at the end of the reporting period. about carrying values of assets and reporting format and is allowed under It also shows separately changes liabilities that are not readily apparent AASB 101 Presentation of financial due to amounts recognised in the from other sources. The estimates and statements. comprehensive result and amounts associated assumptions are based ‘Transactions’ and ‘other economic flows’ recognised in other comprehensive on historical experience and various are defined by the Australian system of income related to other non owner other factors that are believed to be government finance statistics: concepts, changes in equity. reasonable under the circumstance, the sources and methods 2005 Cat. No. results of which form the basis of making Cash flow statement 5514.0 published by the Australian the judgments. Actual results may differ Bureau of Statistics (see Note 23). Cash flows are classified according from these estimates. to whether or not they arise from ‘Transactions’ are those economic The estimates and underlying operating activities, investing activities, flows that are considered to arise as assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing or financing activities. This classification a result of policy decisions, usually basis. Revisions to accounting estimates is consistent with requirements under interactions between two entities by are recognised in the period in which the AASB 107 Statement of cash flows. mutual agreement. Transactions also estimate is revised if the revision affects include flows within an entity, such only that period or in the period of the as depreciation where the owner is revision, and future periods if the revision simultaneously acting as the owner of the affects both current and future periods. depreciating asset and as the consumer Accounting policies are selected and of the service provided by the asset. applied in a manner which ensures Taxation is regarded as mutually agreed that the resulting financial information interactions between the Government satisfies the concepts of relevance and and taxpayers. Transactions can be in reliability, thereby ensuring that the kind (e.g. assets provided/given free of substance of the underlying transactions charge or for nominal consideration) or or other events is reported. where the final consideration is cash.
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 49 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 1 - Summary of Significant h) Contingent assets and contingent (v) Dividend revenue liabilities Accounting Policies (cont.) Dividend revenue is recognised on a Contingent assets and contingent receivable basis. e) Reporting entity liabilities are not recognised in the (vi) Other income The financial report covers the balance sheet, but are disclosed by Zoological Parks and Gardens Board as way of a note and, if quantifiable, are Other income consists of outgoings an individual reporting entity. measured at nominal value. recovered, miscellaneous items that are usually one-off revenue item The Board is a Statutory Authority of i) Rounding of amounts received during the year and gains/ the State of Victoria, established under losses on disposal of property, Amounts in the financial statements the Zoological Parks and Gardens plant and equipment, disposal have been rounded to the nearest Board Act 1995. It also trades under of investments and disposal of thousand dollars, unless otherwise the business name of Zoos Victoria and a business. Any gain or loss on stated. Figures in the financial operates three zoos namely, Melbourne disposal is recognised at the date statements may not equate due Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary and control of the asset is passed to to rounding. Werribee Open Range Zoo. Its principal the buyer and is determined after address is: Elliott Avenue, Parkville, deducting from the proceeds the j) Revenue from transactions Victoria 3052. carrying value of the asset at Revenue is recognised to the extent that time. f) Goods and Services Tax (GST) that it is probable that the economic Income, expenses and assets are benefits will flow to the Board and the k) Expenses from transactions revenue can be reliably measured. The recognised net of the amount of (i) Grants and other payments associated GST, unless the GST following specific recognition criteria incurred is not recoverable from the must also be met before revenue is Grants, subsidies and other taxation authority. In this case it is recognised: payments to third parties are recognised as an expense in the recognised as part of the cost of (i) Sale of goods acquisition of the asset or as part of reporting period in which they are Revenue is recognised at the point the expense. paid or payable. of sale when the significant risks and (ii) Depreciation Receivables and payables are stated rewards of ownership of the goods inclusive of the amount of GST have passed to the buyer and the Depreciation is provided on property, receivable or payable. The net amount costs incurred or to be incurred in plant and equipment, including of GST recoverable from, or payable to, respect of the transaction can be buildings but excluding land. the taxation authority is included with measured reliably. Depreciation is generally calculated other receivables or payables in the on a straight-line basis so as to write (ii) Rendering of services balance sheet. off the net cost or other re-valued Revenue from rendering of services amount of each asset over its Cash flows are presented on a gross is recognised when the services are expected useful life. The estimated basis. The GST components of cash rendered. useful lives and depreciation method flows arising from investing or financing are reviewed at the end of each activities which are recoverable from, (iii) Grants and donations annual reporting period. or payable to the taxation authority, are Government grants, donations, presented as operating cash flow. sponsorship and other contributions The following useful lives of assets are recognised as revenues are used in the calculation of g) Commitments when they are received or there depreciation: Commitments include those operating, is reasonable assurance that they Category Useful lives capital and other outsourcing will be received and all attaching Buildings 10 to 100 years commitments arising from non- conditions will be complied with. Plant and office cancellable contractual or statutory (iv) Interest revenue sources and are disclosed at their equipment 5 to 20 years Interest revenue includes interest nominal value. Note 16 provides Motor vehicles received on bank term deposits, further details. and buses 3 to 10 years interest from investments, and other interest received. Interest revenue is recognised on a time proportionate basis that takes into account the effective yield on the financial asset.
50 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
(iii) Amortisation (ix) Superannuation (x) Impairment of assets Amortisation begins when the asset The amount recognised in the The carrying amounts of non- is available for use, that is, when comprehensive operating statement current assets, with the exception of it is in the location and condition in respect of superannuation available-for-sale assets and defined necessary for it to be capable of plans represents the employer’s benefit plan asset, are assessed operating in the manner intended contributions to the various annually for indications of impairment. by management. The amortisation superannuation funds during the If there is an indication of impairment, period and the amortisation method reporting period. Note 8(a) provides the assets concerned are tested for an intangible asset with a finite further details. as to whether their carrying value useful life are reviewed at least at State defined benefit plan exceeds their recoverable amount. the end of each annual reporting Where an asset’s carrying value period. Contributions to defined exceeds its recoverable amount, the contribution superannuation plans (iv) Resources provided free of charge difference is written off by a charge are expensed when incurred. to the comprehensive operating Resources provided free of charge The amount charged to the statement except to the extent that or for nominal consideration are comprehensive operating statement the write-down can be debited to recognised at their fair value. in respect of the State’s defined an asset revaluation reserve amount (v) Finance expense benefit plan superannuation applicable to that class of asset. Borrowing costs are recognised represents the contributions made The recoverable amount for most as expenses in the period in which by the Board to the superannuation assets is measured at the higher they are incurred. Borrowing costs plan in respect to the current of depreciated replacement cost include interest on bank overdrafts services of current Board staff. and fair value less costs to sell. and short-term and long-term Superannuation contributions are Recoverable amount for assets held borrowings, and finance lease and made to the plan based on the primarily to generate net cash inflows hire purchase charges. relevant rules of the plan. is measured at the higher of the (vi) Research expenditures The Board does not recognise present value of future cash flows any defined benefit liability in expected to be obtained from the Expenditure on research activities respect of the superannuation asset and fair value less costs to sell. is recognised as an expense in the plan because the Board has no It is deemed that, in the event of the period in which it is incurred. legal or constructive obligation to loss of an asset, the future economic (vii) Supplies and services pay future benefits relating to its benefits arising from the use of the asset will be replaced unless a Supplies and services generally employees; its only obligation is to specific decision to the contrary has represent the day-to-day running pay superannuation contributions been made. costs, including maintenance costs, as they fall due. The Department of incurred in the normal operations Treasury and Finance administers of the zoos. These items are and discloses the State’s defined recognised as an expense in the benefit liabilities in its financial reporting period in which they are report. incurred. Other defined benefit plan (viii) Employee benefits The Zoological Parks and Gardens Employee benefits include all Board closed the Zoological Board costs related to employment of Victoria Superannuation Fund including wages and salaries, leave (ZSF) a sub-plan of the Mercer entitlements, redundancy payments Super Trust on approval from and superannuation contributions. the Trustee. The remaining eight These are recognised when members of the former scheme had incurred. their superannuation transferred to MLC Masterkey Business Superfund which is an accumulation fund. Further information is contained in Note 8(b).
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 51 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 1 - Summary of Significant (iii) Other financial assets (v) Intangible Assets Accounting Policies (cont.) Available-for-sale financial assets Intangible assets represent Investments are recognised and identifiable non-monetary assets l) Financial and non-financial assets derecognised on trade date where without physical substance. All non-current assets, including Crown purchase or sale of an investment is Intangible assets are initially land, controlled by the Zoological Parks under a contract which terms require recognised at cost. Subsequently, and Gardens Board are reported in the delivery of the investment within the intangible assets with finite useful balance sheet. timeframe established by the market lives are carried at cost less (i) Cash and cash equivalents concerned, and are initially measured accumulated amortisation and at fair value, net of transaction costs. Cash and cash equivalents comprise accumulated impairment losses. cash on hand and cash at bank, The Board classifies the investments Costs incurred subsequent to initial deposits at call and highly liquid it held as available-for-sale financial acquisition are capitalised when it investments with an original maturity assets and they are stated at fair is expected that additional future of 3 months or less, which are readily value. Gains and losses arising from economic benefits will flow to the convertible to known amounts of cash changes in fair value are recognised Board. The following useful lives of and are subject to insignificant risk of directly in equity until the investment assets are used in the calculation of changes in value. is disposed of or is determined amortisation: to be impaired, at which time the For the cash flow statement Category Useful lives cumulative gain or loss previously presentation purposes, cash and cash Software 10 years recognised in equity is included in equivalents includes bank overdrafts, profit or loss for the period. which are included as borrowings on (vi) Animal Collections the balance sheet. (iv) Inventories The zoo animal collection managed (ii) Receivables Inventories comprised of finished by the Board is reflected in the goods held either for sale in the Receivables consist predominantly Board’s accounting records as ordinary course of business of debtors in relation to goods one dollar. This is consistent with operations. Inventories held for and services, accrued investment worldwide zoo industry practice. distribution are measured at the income and GST input tax credits The Board regards the animals as lower cost and net realisable value. recoverable. All debtors are part of a regional and international Costs are assigned to individual recognised at the amount receivable, collection and not the specific items of inventory using the first in as they are due for settlement at no property of the holding institution. first out valuation method and include more than 30 days from the date of expenditure incurred in acquiring the (vii) Property, Plant and Equipment recognition. inventories and bringing them to their All non-current physical assets Receivables are recognised initially at existing condition and location. Net are measured initially at cost and fair value and subsequently measured realisable value is determined on the subsequently revalued at fair value at amortised cost, using the effective basis of normal selling patterns. less accumulated depreciation and interest rate method, less any impairment. accumulated impairment. A provision for doubtful receivables is made when Non-current physical assets land are there is objective evidence that the measured at fair value with regard to debts will not be collected. Bad debts the property’s highest and best use are written off when identified. after due consideration is made for any legal or constructive restrictions The average credit period on sales of imposed on the asset. goods and services is 30 days. No interest is normally charged on trade The fair value of plant, equipment and other receivables. and vehicles, is normally determined by reference to the asset’s depreciated replacement cost. For plant, equipment and vehicles, existing depreciated historical cost is generally a reasonable proxy for depreciated replacement cost because of the short lives of the assets concerned.
52 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
(viii) Non-current assets constructed Revaluation increases and revaluation (x) Leases non-current assets by the Board decreases relating to individual Finance Lease assets within an asset class are offset The cost of non-current assets + Leases are classified as finance against one another within that class constructed by the Board includes leases whenever the terms of the but are not offset in respect of assets the cost of all materials used in lease transfer substantially all the in different classes. construction, equipment and direct risks and rewards of ownership labour on the project. Revaluation reserves are not normally to the lessee. All other leases are (ix) Revaluation of non-current transferred to accumulated surplus on classified as operating leases. de-recognition of the relevant asset. physical assets + Assets held under finance leases Non-current physical assets Land controlled by the Zoological are recognised as assets of the measured at fair value are revalued Parks and Gardens Board is Board at their fair value or, if lower, in accordance with Financial measured at fair value with regard at the present value of the minimum Reporting Directions (FRD’s) to the land’s highest and best use lease payments, each determined issued by the Minister for Finance. after due consideration is made for at the inception of the lease. The This revaluation process normally legal and/or constructive restrictions corresponding liability to the lessor occurs every five years, based upon imposed on the land. These is included in the balance sheet as a the asset’s Government Purpose restrictions, whereby the land has finance lease obligation. Classification. Revaluation increments been reserved, have been assessed + Minimum lease payments are or decrements arise from differences by the valuer as reducing the land allocated between the principal between carrying value and fair value. value for zoning and overlay by 45% component of the lease liability, for both Werribee Open Range Revaluation increments are credited and the interest expense calculated Zoo and Healesville Sanctuary, and directly to equity in the revaluation using the interest rate implicit in the 60% for Melbourne Zoo due to an reserve, except that, to the extent lease, and charged directly to the additional allowance for the iconic that an increment reverses a comprehensive operating statement. nature of the site. revaluation decrement in respect + Finance lease assets are depreciated of that class of asset previously The valuation is in line with FRD103D over the shorter of the estimated recognised as an expense in the net and the basis of valuation is by useful life of the asset or the term of result, the increment is recognised as indexing the 2008-09 figure by the lease. indices supplied by The Valuer- income in determining the net result. Operating Lease General Victoria. Comparable indices Revaluation decrements are and category for the valuation used + Operating lease payments are recognised immediately as expenses are outlined below: recognised as an expense in the net result, except that, to the on a straight-line basis over extent that a credit balance exists in the lease term, except where the revaluation reserve in respect of another systematic basis is more the same class of assets, they are representative of the time pattern of debited to the revaluation reserve. the benefits derived from the use of the leased asset.
2009-10 2008-09 Postcode Municipality Locality Indices Category Indices Category
3030 Wyndham Derrimut, Point Cook, 1.15 Englobo 0.95 Rural Werribee
3052 Melbourne Parkville 1.05 Englobo 0.97 Englobo
3777 Yarra Ranges Healesville, Toolangi 1.06 Rural 0.95 Rural
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 53 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Long service leave (LSL) Accounting Policies (cont.) Liability for LSL is recognised in the provision for employee benefits. m) Liabilities Current Liability- unconditional (i) Payables LSL is disclosed in the notes to Payables consist predominantly of the financial statements as current creditors and other sundry liabilities. liability even where the Board does Payables are initially recognised at not expect to settle the liability within fair value, then subsequently carried 12 months because it does not have at amortised cost and represent the unconditional right to defer the liabilities for goods and services settlement of the entitlement should provided to the Board prior to the an employee take leave within end of financial year that are unpaid, 12 months. and arise when the Board becomes The components of this current LSL obliged to make future payments liability are measured at: in respect of the purchase of these + Nominal value - component that goods and services. Fair value is is expected to settle within determined in the manner described 12 months, and in Note 22(f). + Present value – component that is (ii) Borrowings not expect to settle within Borrowings are recorded initially at 12 months. fair value, net of transaction costs. Non-current Liability - conditional Subsequent to initial recognition, LSL is disclosed as a non-current borrowings are measured at liability. There is an unconditional amortised cost with any difference right to defer the settlement of the between the initial recognised entitlement until the employee has amount and the redemption value completed the requisite years of being recognised in profit and loss service. over the period of the borrowing using the effective interest rate This non-current LSL liability is method. Fair value is determined in measured at present value. Gain the manner described in Note 22(f). or loss following revaluation of the present value of non current LSL (iii) Employee Benefits liability due to changes in bond Annual leave interest rates is recognised. Liabilities for annual leave expected Employee benefits on-costs to be settled within 12 months of Employee benefits on-costs (payroll the reporting date are recognised in tax, workers compensation, the provision for employee benefits superannuation) are recognised in respect of employee services up separately from provision for to the reporting date, classified as employee benefits. Refer to Note 11 current liabilities and measured at for details. their nominal values. Those liabilities that are not expected to be settled within 12 months are recognised in the provision for employee benefits as liabilities, measured at present value of the amounts expected to be paid when the liabilities are settled using the remuneration rate expected to apply at the time of settlement.
54 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
n) New accounting standards and interpretations Certain new accounting standards and interpretations have been published that are not mandatory for the 30 June 2010 reporting period. Department of Treasury and Finance (DTF) assesses the impact of these new standards and advises departments and other entities of their applicability and early adoption where applicable. As at 30 June 2010, the following standards and interpretations had been issued but were not mandatory for financial year ending 30 June 2010. The Board has not, and does not intend to, adopt these standards early.
Applicable for annual reporting periods Impact on Board Standard / Interpretation Summary beginning or ending on financial statements
AASB 2009-5 Further Some amendments will result Beginning 1 Jan 2010 No Impact. amendments to Australian in accounting changes for Accounting Standards arising presentation, recognition or from the annual improvements measurement purposes, while project other amendments will relate [AASB 5, 8, 101, 107, 117, 118, to terminology and editorial 136 and 139] changes.
AASB 2009-9 Amendments to Applies to entities adopting Beginning 1 Jan 2010 No impact. Australian Accounting Standards Australian Accounting Standards Relates only to first time – additional exemptions for first- for the first time, to ensure adopters of Australian time adopters [AASB 1] entities will not face undue cost Accounting Standards. or effort in the transition process
in particular situations.
Erratum General Terminology Editorial amendments to a Beginning 1 Jan 2010 Terminology and editorial changes range of Australian Accounting changes. Impact minor. Standards and Interpretations.
AASB 2009-10 Amendments to The Standard makes Beginning 1 Feb 2010 No impact. Australian Accounting Standards amendments to AASB 132, Zoo Board does not issue – classification of rights issues stating that rights issues must rights, warrants and options, [AASB 132] now be classed as equity rather consequently the amendment than derivative liabilities. does not impact on the statements.
AASB 2009-11 Amendments to This gives effect to Beginning 1 Jan 2013 Impact is still being assessed Australian Accounting Standards consequential changes arising by DTF. arising from AASB 9 [AASB 1, from the issuance of AASB 9. 3, 4, 5, 7, 101, 102, 108, 112, 118, 121, 127, 128, 131, 132, 136, 139, 1023 and 1038 and Interpretations 10 and 12]
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 55 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (cont.) n) New accounting standards and interpretations (cont.)
Applicable for annual reporting periods Impact on Board Standard / Interpretation Summary beginning or ending on financial statements
AASB 2009-12 Amendments to This standard amends AASB 8 Beginning 1 Jan 2011 DTF assess that AASB8 does Australian Accounting Standards to require an entity to exercise not apply to Departments or its [AASB 5, 8, 108, 110, 112, 119, judgement in assessing whether agencies. Therefore no impact 133, 137, 139, 1023 and 1031 a government and entities expected. Otherwise, only and Interpretations 2, 4, 16, known to be under the control of editorial changes arising from 1039 and 1052] that government are considered amendments to other standards a single customer for purposes and are not expected to be of certain operating segment significant. disclosures. This standard also makes numerous editorial amendments to other AASs.
AASB 2009-13 Amendments to Consequential amendment to Beginning 1 Jul 2010 Zoo Board does not extinguish Australian Accounting Standards AASB 1 arising from publication financial liabilities with equity arising from interpretation 19 of Interpretation 19. instruments, therefore requirements of Interpretation 19 [AASB 1] and related amendments have no impact.
AASB 2009-14 Amendments Amendment to Interpretation Beginning 1 Jan 2011 Advice from DTF is that it will to Australian Interpretation – 14 arising from the issuance have no significant impact. Prepayments of a minimum of Prepayments of a minimum funding requirement [AASB funding requirement. Interpretation 14]
AASB 124 Related party Government related entities have Beginning 1 Jan 2011 Preliminary assessment disclosures (Dec 2009) been granted partial exemption suggests that impact is with certain disclosure insignificant. requirements.
AASB 9 Financial instruments This standard simplifies Beginning 1 Jan 2013 Impact is still being assessed requirements for the by DTF. classification and measurement of financial assets resulting from Phase 1 of the IASB’s project to replace IAS 39 Financial instruments: recognition and measurement (AASB 139 Financial Instruments: recognition and measurement).
56 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 2 – Income from Transactions
2010 2009 $’000 $’000
(a) Revenue
Sale of Goods 5,664 5,105
Rendering of services 31,507 27,095
Total revenue 37,171 32,200
(b) Government grants
Recurrent 10,336 13,389
Other 1,151 1,202
Total government grants 11,487 14,591
(c) Other income
Sponsorship and donations 1,519 2,757
Interest on deposits 1,251 2,111
Net gain on disposal of shares 164 -
Income from investments 62 14
Others 324 241
Total other income 3,320 5,123
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 57 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 3 – Expenses from Transactions
2010 2009 $’000 $’000
(a) Employee benefits expense:
Salary and wages 23,048 21,551
Payroll tax and workcover 1,713 1,715
Superannuation 2,216 1,971
Defined benefit plan (income) / expense 59 314
Annual leave and long service leave provisions 1,785 2,336
Total employee benefits expenses 28,821 27,887
(b) Supplies and services
Purchase of supplies and consumables 2,681 2,339
Purchase of services 7,696 7,956
Maintenance 4,008 4,216
Total supplies and services 14,385 14,511
(c) Depreciation and amortisation
Depreciation of non-current assets 6,051 5,443
Amortisation of non-current assets 66 56
Total Depreciation and amortisation 6,117 5,499
(d) Other expenses
Cost of goods sold 2,601 2,343
Inventories write down 43 99
Operating lease and rental expense 153 104
Others 93 70
Total other expenses 2,890 2,616
(e) Finance expenses
Interest on loans 10 26
Finance charges payable under finance leases and hire purchase contract 15 3
25 29
58 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 4 – Receivables
2010 2009 $’000 $’000 Current receivables Contractual Trade and other receivables 800 1,625 800 1,625 Statutory Net goods and service tax receivable 221 242
Total Receivables 1,021 1,867
Note 5 – Other Financial Assets
Current Term deposit (maturity greater than 3 months) - 10,000
Sub total current - 10,000
Non-current Under a bequest arrangement the Board invested the proceeds into Vanguard Index Fund and funds are also deposited into the ANZ Trustees Balanced Charitable Common Fund. Both investments were disposed of during the year.
Managed Investment Fund - 824
Wildlife Conservation Foundation Fund - 166
Sub total non-current - 990 Total other financial assets - 10,990
Note 6 – Intangible Assets
Non-current Gross carrying amount Opening balance 647 550 Additions 15 97 Closing balance 662 647 Accumulated amortisation Opening balance (96) (40) Amortisation expense (66) (56) Closing balance (162) (96) Net book value at the end of the financial year 500 551
Note 7 – Property, Plant and Equipment and Vehicles Aggregate depreciation recognised as an expense during the year
Buildings 5,339 4,808 Plant and office equipment 478 446 Motor vehicles and buses 234 189 6,051 5,443
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 59 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 7(a) – Property, Plant and Equipment and Vehicles – Carrying Amounts
$’000 Buildings at Plant, equipment, Motor vehicles Construction Land at valuation vehicles finance lease in progress fair value and cost at fair value at fair value at cost Total
2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009
Non-current
Valuation 2007 84,871 84,871 84,871 84,871
Valuation 2009 86,139 86,139
Valuation 2010 90,839 - 90,839 -
Buildings, property, plant, equipment and vehicles at cost 24,775 1,694 9,001 8,071 585 596 34,361 10,361
Buildings, plant and equipment in the course of construction at cost 1,343 17,332 1,343 17,332
Accumulated Depreciation (14,933) (9,602) (4,681) (4,405) (296) (318) (19,910) (14,325)
Closing balance 90,839 86,139 94,713 76,963 4,320 3,666 289 278 1,343 17,332 191,504 184,378
An independent valuation of the Board’s land and buildings was performed by Matheson Stephen Valuations Australia Pty Ltd to determine the fair value of the land and buildings. The basis of valuation is the market value for the existing use which is based on the replacement cost of each asset’s remaining future service life and thus approximates its fair value. The valuation was based on independent assessments. The effective date of the valuation was 30 June 2007. The 2009 and 2010 valuation for land is in line with Financial Reporting Direction (FRD103D) the basis of valuation is outlined in Note 1(l) (ix).
Note 7(b) – Property, Plant and Equipment and Vehicles – Movements in Carrying Amounts
$’000 Buildings at Plant, equipment, Motor vehicles Construction Land at valuation vehicles finance lease in progress fair value and cost at fair value at fair value at cost Total
2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009
Non-current
Opening balance 86,139 88,850 76,963 80,052 3,666 3,418 278 347 17,332 3,033 184,378 175,700
Additions 1,351 948 1,264 874 192 - 5,749 15,070 8,556 16,892
Transfer from construction in progress 21,738 771 (21,738) (771) - -
Disposal - (11) (79) (49) (79) (60)
Net revaluation increments/ decrements 4,700 (2,711) 4,700 (2,711)
Depreciation expense (5,339) (4,808) (610) (615) (102) (20) (6,051) (5,443)
Closing balance 90,839 86,139 94,713 76,963 4,320 3,666 289 278 1,343 17,332 191,504 184,378
60 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 8(a) – Superannuation Employees of the Board are entitled to receive superannuation benefits and the Board contributes to various superannuation funds during the year. However, superannuation contributions paid or payable for the reporting period are included as part of employee benefits in the comprehensive operating statement of the Board. The name, details and amounts expensed in relation to the major employee superannuation funds and contributions made by the Board are as follows:
2010 2009 2010 2009 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Contribution for the year Contribution outstanding Funds at the year end
State defined benefit fund (Note 1(k)(ix) 345 343 0 0 Vicsuper 1,720 1,550 0 0 Others 181 71 0 0 Total 2,246 1,964 0 0
Note 8(b) – Defined Benefit Plan Asset The following tables summarise the components of net benefit (income)/expense recognised in the comprehensive operating statement and the funded status and amounts recognised in the balance sheet for 2009-10 and 2008-09. Over the years, the Fund has been reducing in size (with 8 members remaining) and as a result operational costs have continued to increase. In addition, superannuation has now become much more complex with increased Government legislation and administrative requirements. In particular, the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act (“SIS”) has increased the reporting requirements of superannuation plans and the responsibilities placed on superannuation fund trustees. As a result of the increase in costs arising from the new compliance requirements and the fixed cost of maintaining the fund, it becomes inefficient to continue to operate funds of this size. The Zoological Parks and Gardens Board closed the Zoological Board of Victoria Superannuation Fund (ZSF) a sub-plan of the Mercer Super Trust and transferred existing members to MLC Masterkey Business Super (accumulation fund). Approval to close the ZSF was granted by the Trustee on 4th December 2009 and the transfer was completed on 28th February 2010.
2010 2009 $’000 $’000
(a) Net benefit expense
Current service cost - 64
Interest cost - 72
Expected return on plan assets (net of expenses) - (101)
Actuarial (gains)/losses - 331
Past service cost - -
Total expense recognised in respect of defined benefit plans - 366
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 61 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 8(b) – Defined Benefit Plan Asset (cont.)
2010 2009 $’000 $’000
(b) Benefit asset included in the balance sheet
Non-current
Present value of defined benefit obligation - 1,275
Fair value of plan assets - (1,334)
Net benefit assets – non financial - (59)
(c) Changes in the present value of the defined benefit obligations are as follows:
Opening defined benefit obligation - 1,199
Interest cost - 64
Current service cost - 72
Contribution by plan participants - 20
Benefit and expenses paid - (204)
Actuarial (gains)/losses on obligation - 124
Closing defined benefit obligation - 1,275
(d) Changes in the fair value of defined benefit plan are as follows:
Opening fair value of plan assets - 1,572
Expected return - 101
Contribution by employer - 52
Contribution by plan participants - 20
Benefit and expenses paid - (204)
Actuarial (gains)/losses - (207)
Closing defined benefit obligation - 1,334
The fair value of plan assets includes no amounts relating to any of the Board’s own financial instruments or any property occupied by, or other assets used by, the Board.
(e) Major categories of plan assets as a percentage of the fair value of the total plan assets
Australian equities - 40%
International equities - 15%
Fixed interest securities - 25%
Property - 12%
Alternatives/ Others - 2%
Cash - 6%
62 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 8(b) – Defined Benefit Plan Asset (cont.)
2010 2009 $’000 $’000
(f) Actuarial assumptions used in determining pension obligations
Discount rate - 5.0%pa
Expected rate of return on assets - 6.5%pa
Future salary increases - 3.5%pa
The expected return on assets assumption is determined by weighting the expected long-term return for each asset class by the target allocation of assets to each class, and allowing for the correlations of the investment returns between asset classes. The returns used for each class are net of investment tax and investment fee.
(g) Actual return on plan assets
Actual return on plan assets - (106)
The history of experience adjustment is as follows:
Experience adjustments loss/(gain) on plan liabilities - (19)
Experience adjustments (gain) on plan assets - 207
Note 9 – Payables
Current
Trade and other payables (non-interest and are normally settled on 30 days terms) 2,481 3,314
Deferred revenue 210 162
Total current - payables 2,691 3,476
Note 10 – Borrowings
Current Secured loan from State Government at amortised cost - 59 Finance lease obligations secured by assets leased (Further information at Note 17) 136 276 Total current borrowings 136 335 Non-current Secured loan from State Government at amortised cost - 80 Finance lease obligations secured by assets leased (Further information at Note 17) 144 - Total non-current borrowings 144 80 Total borrowings 280 415
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 63 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 11 – Provisions
2010 2009 $’000 $’000
Current provisions Employees benefits (Note 11(a) and Note 11(b)) – Unconditional and expected to be settled within 12 months 1,996 1,904
– Unconditional and expected to be settled after 12 months 3,142 3,368 5,138 5,272 Provisions related to employee benefit on-costs: – Unconditional and expected to be settled within 12 months 313 309 – Unconditional and expected to be settled after 12 months 492 544 805 853 Total current provisions 5,943 6,125 Non-current provisions Employees benefits (Note 11(a) and Note 11(b)) 463 478 Provisions related to employee benefit on-costs: 72 77 Total non-current provisions 535 555 Total provisions 6,478 6,680 Note 11(a) - Provision for employee benefits consist of amounts for annual leave and long service leave accrued by employees, not including on-costs. Note 11(b) – The Long Service Leave calculation assumes the retention or probability of employees remaining with the Board has been calculated based on average industry retention rates.
Movement in provisions Opening balances 6,680 6,129 Nett increment/(decrement) to provision (202) 551) Closing balance 6,478 6,680
Note 12 - Other Economic Flows Included in Net Result
2010 2009 $’000 $’000
(a) Net gain/(loss) on non financial assets
Net gain on disposal of physical assets 30 30
Total net gain/(loss) on non financial assets 30 30 (b) Net gain/(loss) on financial assets
Impairment of other financial assets recognised in profit and loss - (276)
Total net gain/(loss) on financial assets - (276)
64 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 13 – Reserves
2010 2009 $’000 $’000
(a) Physical asset revaluation reserve (Note 13(i))
Balance at the beginning of the financial year 97,769 100,480
Revaluation increments/(decrements) 4,700 (2,711)
Balance at the end of the financial year 102,469 97,769 (b) Financial assets available-for-sale reserve (Note 13(ii))
Balance at the beginning of the financial year - (309)
Cumulative (gain)/loss from impairment transferred to profit and loss during the year - 309
Balance at the end of the financial year - -
Total reserves 102,469 97,769
13(i) The assets revaluation reserve arises on the revaluation of land and buildings. 13(ii) The financial assets available for sale revaluation reserve arises on the revaluation of available for sale financial assets. Where a revalued financial asset is sold that portion of the reserve which relates to that financial asset, and is effectively realised, is recognised in profit and loss. Where a revalued financial asset is impaired that portion of the reserve which relates to that financial asset is recognised in profit and loss
Note 14 – Subsequent Events There are no matters or circumstances that have arisen since the end of the financial year that have significantly affected or may significantly affect the operations of the Zoological Parks and Gardens Board, the results of those operations or the state of affairs of the Zoological Parks and Gardens Board in future financial years.
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 65 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 15 – Cash Flow Information
2010 2009 $’000 $’000
(a) Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents For the purposes of the Cash Flow Statement, cash includes cash on hand and at bank, and short-term deposits, net of outstanding bank overdrafts. Cash as at the end of financial year as shown in the Cash Flow Statement is reconciled to the related items in the balance sheet as follows: Cash on hand and at bank 1,028 310 Short term deposit at call 31,350 11,250
Term deposit (maturity within 3 months) - 10,000
Total cash and cash equivalent 32,378 21,560 (b) Reconciliation of net result for the period to net cash flows from operating activities
Net result (230) 1,126
Non cash movements: – Depreciation and amortisation of non current assets 6,117 5,499
Movements included in investing and financing activities: – (Gain)/loss on sale or disposal of non-financial assets (30) (30) – (Gain)/loss on financial assets (177) 276
Movements in assets and liabilities: – (Increase)/decrease in inventories (320) (85) – (Increase)/decrease in receivables 825 (509) – (Increase)/decrease in prepayments (30) 14 – (Increase)/decrease in defined benefit assets 59 314 – (Decrease)/increase in payables (11) 480 – (Decrease)/increase in deferred revenue 48 (122)
– (Decrease)/increase in provisions (179) 383
Net cash flows from/(used in) operating activities 6,072 7,346 (c) Non-cash financing and investing activities Additions to vehicles under finance leases during the financial year 192 - Total additions to vehicles under finance lease 192 -
66 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 16 – Commitments for Expenditure
2010 2009 $’000 $’000
The following commitments have not been recognised as liabilities in the financial statements. (a) Capital expenditure commitments – Payable within 1 year 611 2,065 Total capital expenditure commitments 611 2,065 (b) Operating Lease commitments – Payable within 1 year 115 144 – Payable longer than 1 year and not longer than 5 years 113 199 Total operating lease 228 343
Note 17 – Finance Lease
Present value of Minimum future minimum future lease payments lease payments 2010 2009 2010 2009 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
Finance lease liabilities payable – Not longer than one year 147 279 136 276 – Longer than one year and not longer than five years 156 - 144 - Minimum future lease payments 303 279 280 276 Less future finance charges (23) (3) - - Present value of minimum lease payments 280 276 280 276 Included in the financial statements as: Current borrowings (Note 10) 136 276 Non-current borrowings (Note 10) 144 - 280 276
Note 18 – Auditor’s Remuneration
2010 2009 $’000 $’000
Audit and review of the financial report by the Victorian Auditor General’s Office 30 28
Total auditor’s remuneration 30 28
Note 19 – Contingent Assets and Contingent Liabilities The Board does not have any contingent assets and contingent liabilities at the end of the financial year.
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 67 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 20 - Responsible Persons Remuneration bands of Retirement benefits responsible persons In accordance with the Ministerial Total retirement benefits received or due Directions issued by the Minister for No of person and receivable by Responsible Persons Finance under the Financial Management 2010 2009 from the reporting entity. Act 1994, the following disclosures are $0 to $9,999 8 8 2010 2009 made regarding responsible persons for $’000 $’000 $10,000 to $19,999 1 1 the reporting period. - - $90,000 to $99,999 - 1 Unless otherwise stated, the responsible persons held office for the full financial $210,000 to $219,999 - 1 Related party transactions of responsible persons year (1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010). $220,000 to $229,999 1 - Other related party transactions requiring Total Number 10 11 Minister for Environment disclosure under the Directions of the and Climate Change Minister for Finance have been considered Remuneration other than The Hon Gavin Jennings and there are no matters to report. retirement benefits
Members of the Board Total remuneration received, or due and receivable by Responsible Persons from Andrew Fairley (Chair) the reporting entity. Irene Irvine (Deputy Chair) 2010 2009 $’000 $’000 Nicholas Whitby 298 357 Pru Sanderson Gaye Hamilton Kimberley Dripps Kenneth Hinchcliff Mary Gillett Helen Thornton (commenced 23/2/10) Chief Executive Officer Jennifer H Gray
Note 21 - Remuneration of No of persons Executives Remuneration bands Total remuneration Base remuneration The number of executive officers, other 2010 2009 2010 2009 than responsible persons included under $10,000 to $20,000 - - - 1 ‘Remuneration of Responsible Persons’ above during the reporting period are $60,000 to $70,000 2 1 2 2 shown below in their relevant income bands. $100,000 to $109,999 - 2 - 1 Several factors have affected total $110,000 to $119,999 - - - remuneration payable to executives over the year. A number of employment contracts $120,000 to $129,999 - 1 - 2 started part way through the year with the $130,000 to $139,999 - 1 - 1 full impact this financial year and a number $140,000 to $149,999 3 2 4 2 of executives received bonus payments during the year. $150,000 to $159,999 2 - 3 - $160,000 to $169,999 2 1 1 - $190,000 to $199,999 1 1 - - Total number 10 9 10 9 Total amount ($’000) 1,354 1,194 1,296 938
68 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 22 – Financial Instruments
2010 2009 $’000 $’000
(a) Categorisation of financial instruments
Financial assets Cash and cash equivalents 32,378 21,560 Receivables (excluding statutory amount) 800 1,625
Investments and other financial assets - 10,990
Total financial assets 33,178 34,175
Financial Liabilities Payables 2,691 3,476
Borrowings 280 415
Total financial liabilities 2,971 3,891
(b) Financial risk management (d) Significant terms and conditions (e) Credit risk objectives Financial assets The Board’s maximum exposure to The Board’s principal financial Receivables are carried at the nominal credit risk at balance date for each instruments comprise interest-bearing amounts due less any allowance for class of recognised financial assets is loans, finance leases and cash and doubtful debts, when there is objective the carrying amount of those assets short-term deposits. The main purpose evidence that the receivable amount is as disclosed in the statement of of these financial instruments is to impaired. Credit sales are normally on financial position. The Board minimises finance the acquisition of capital assets 7 to 30 day terms. concentrations of credit risk by and the day-to-day operations. The undertaking transactions with a large Board has various other financial assets Interest-bearing deposits are carried number of customers and counter and liabilities such as trade receivables at the lower of cost and net realisable parties. It is the Board’s policy that all and trade payables, which arise directly value. Interest revenue is brought into customers who wish to trade on credit from its operation. account as it is earned. All interest- terms are subject to credit verification bearing deposits have a maturity of less It is the Board’s policy that no trading procedures. In addition, receivable than 180 days. in financial instruments, including balances are monitored on an ongoing derivative financial instruments, shall Financial Liabilities basis with the result that the Board’s exposure to bad debts is not significant. be undertaken. The main risks arising Payables are recognised for future from the Board’s financial instruments amounts to be paid in respect of goods The Board is not materially exposed to are interest rate risk and credit risk. The and services received, whether or any customer or counter party. policies for managing these risks are not billed to the Board. Settlement of discussed in more detail below. creditors is normally within a 30-day term. (c) Significant accounting policies Borrowings are carried at amortised Details of the significant accounting costs. Interest is charged as an policies and methods adopted, expense as it is incurred. All loans including the criteria for recognition, are secured by way of a charge over the basis of measurement and the the Board’s revenue and by State basis on which income and expenses Government Guarantees. are recognised, in respect of each class of financial asset, financial liability and equity instrument are disclosed in Note 1 to the financial statements.
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 69 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 22 – Financial Instruments (cont.) (f) Fair Value (g) Market risk exposure The available-for-sale investments The Board exposures to market risk held by the Board have been valued are primarily through interest rate risk at market value at balance date. For and other price risks. The processes other financial assets and liabilities, they used to manage each of these risks are are included in the Balance Sheet at disclosed in the paragraphs below. amounts, which approximate their fair Interest rate risk values. Transaction costs associated with exchanging assets and liabilities Exposure to interest rate risk is are not material and consequently are insignificant. Minimisation of risk is not included in the carrying value of achieved by mainly undertaking fixed these assets and liabilities. rate or non-interest bearing financial instruments. For financial liabilities, Fair values for cash, cash equivalents, the Board mainly undertakes financial interest-bearing deposits, receivables liabilities with fixed rate. and payables are represented by the carrying amounts in the balance sheet. Sensitivity disclosure analysis Borrowings reflect the amount to be Taking into account past performance, repaid in accordance with the agreed future expectations, economic terms and conditions of the loans forecasts, and management’s and leases. knowledge and experience of the financial markets, the Board believes the following movements are ‘reasonably possible’ over the next 12 months. A parallel shift of +1 per cent and -1 per cent in market interest rates (AUD) from year-end rates of 4.5 per cent; A parallel shift of +5 per cent and -5 per cent in market volatility of unit prices for its investment in indexed fund. Table shown in Note 22(j) discloses the impact on net operating result and equity for each category of financial instrument held by the Board at year- end as presented to key management personnel, if the above movements were to occur.
70 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 22 – Financial Instruments (cont.) (h) Interest rate exposure of financial instruments
$’000 Interest rate exposure Weighted average effective Carrying Fixed Variable Non-interest Details interest rate amount interest rate interest rate bearing
2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 % % Cash and deposits: – Cash and cash equivalents 4.02 5.22 32,378 21,560 - 10,000 32,193 11,398 185 162 Receivables: – Trade debtors and other receivables at amortised cost excluding statutory amount 800 1,625 800 1,625 Other financial assets – Investment in managed investment fund - 990 - 990 – Term deposit (maturity greater than 3 months) - 10,000 - 10,000 33,178 34,175 - 20,000 32,193 11,398 985 2,777 Payables: – Other payables at amortised cost 2,691 3,476 2,691 3,476 Borrowings: – Secured loans 4.81 4.81 - 139 - 139 – Finance lease liabilities 6.54 6.51 280 276 280 276 2,971 3,891 280 415 2,691 3,476
(i) Maturity of financial instruments
$’000 Maturity dates
Carrying Greater than 1 but Greater than 3 but Greater than 5 Details amount Less than 1 year less than 3 years less than 5 years years
2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 2010 2009 Cash and deposits: – Cash and cash equivalents 32,378 21,560 32,378 21,560 Receivables: – Trade debtors and other receivables at amortised cost excluding statutory amount 800 1,625 800 1,625 Other financial assets – Investment in managed investment fund - 990 - 990 – Term deposit (maturity greater than 3 months) - 10,000 - 10,000 33,178 34,175 33,178 34,175 Payables: – Other payables at amortised cost 2,691 3,476 2,691 3,476 Borrowings: – Secured loans - 139 - 59 - 80 – Finance lease liabilities 280 276 136 276 144 - 2,971 3,891 2,827 3,811 144 80
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 71 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 22 – Financial Instruments (cont.) (j) Market risk exposure of financial instruments
Interest rate risk Other price risk -100 basis points +100 basis points -5 per cent +5 per cent
$’000 Available Available Carrying Accum- Accum- -for-sale -for-sale Details amount Net Result Surplus Net Result Surplus Net Result Reserve Net Result Reserve
2010
Financial assets: Cash and cash equivalents (a) 32,193 (322) (322) 322 322 Receivables 800
Financial liabilities: Payables 2,691 Borrowings 280 Total increase/(decrease) (322) (322) 322 322 - - - -
Note Sensitivities of market movement in cash rates and market volatility in investments. (a) Sensitivity impact on net result due to a +/-100 basis points movement in market interest rate. It does not include non-interest bearing amounts held for daily use as change and petty cash.
Interest rate risk Other price risk -100 basis points +100 basis points -5 per cent +5 per cent
$’000 Available Available Carrying Accum- Accum- -for-sale -for-sale Details amount Net Result Surplus Net Result Surplus Net Result Reserve Net Result Reserve
2009
Financial assets: Cash and cash equivalents (a) 11,560 (115) (115) 115 115 Receivables 1,625 Other financial assets(b) 990 (50) (50) 50 50
Financial liabilities: Payables 3,476 Borrowings 139 Total increase/(decrease) (115) (115) 115 115 (50) (50) 50 50
Note Sensitivities of market movement in cash rates and market volatility in investments. (a) Sensitivity impact on net result due to a +/-100 basis points movement in market interest rate. (b) Sensitivity impact on investment net result due to a +/-5% movement in the market.
72 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Note 23 - Glossary of Terms Financial asset Grants A financial asset is any asset that is: Grants can be paid as general purpose Actuarial gains or losses on grants which refer to grants that are not (a) Cash superannuation defined benefit plans subject to conditions regarding their use. Actuarial gains or losses reflect movements (b) An equity instrument of another entity Alternatively, they may be paid as specific in the superannuation liability resulting from (c) A contractual right: purpose grants which are paid for a differences between the assumptions used particular purpose and/or have conditions + To receive cash or another financial to calculate the superannuation expense attached regarding their use. asset from another entity, or from transactions and actual experience. + To exchange financial assets or Financial statements financial liabilities with another entity AASB Depending on the context of the sentence under conditions that are potentially Accounting Standards issued by the where the term ‘financial statements’ is favourable to the entity, or Australian Accounting Standards Board. used, it may include only the main financial (d) A contract that will or may be settled in statements (i.e. comprehensive operating Comprehensive result the entity’s own equity instruments statement, balance sheet, cash flow and is: Total comprehensive result is the change statements, and statement of changes in in equity for the period other than changes + A non derivative for which the entity equity); or it may also be used to replace arising from transactions with owners. is or may be obliged to receive a the old term ‘financial report’ under the It is the aggregate of net result and other variable number of the entity’s own revised AASB 101 (Sept 2007), which non-owner changes in equity. equity instruments, or means it may include the main financial statements and the notes. + A derivative that will or may be Commitments settled other than by the exchange Intangible assets Commitments include those operating, of a fixed amount of cash or another capital and other outsourcing financial asset for a fixed number of Intangible assets represent identifiable commitments arising from non cancellable the entity’s own equity instruments. non monetary assets without physical contractual or statutory sources. substance. Financial liability Employee benefits expenses Interest expense A financial liability is any liability that is: Employee benefits expenses include all Costs incurred in connection with the (a) A contractual or statutory obligation: costs related to employment including borrowing of funds. Interest expenses wages and salaries, leave entitlements, (i) To deliver cash or another financial include interest on bank overdrafts and redundancy payments and superannuation asset to another entity, or short term and long term borrowings, amortisation of discounts or premiums contributions. (ii) To exchange financial assets or relating to borrowings, interest component financial liabilities with another entity of finance leases repayments, and the under conditions that are potentially increase in financial liabilities and non unfavourable to the entity, or employee provisions due to the unwinding (b) A contract that will or may be settled of discounts to reflect the passage of time. in the entity’s own equity instruments and is: Interest revenue (i) A non-derivative for which the entity Interest revenue includes interest received is or may be obliged to deliver a on bank term deposits, interest from variable number of the entity’s own investments, and other interest received. equity instruments, or (ii) A derivative that will or may be settled other than by the exchange of a fixed amount of cash or another financial asset for a fixed number of the entity’s own equity instruments. For this purpose the entity’s own equity instruments do not include instruments that are themselves contracts for the future receipt or delivery of the entity’s own equity instruments.
ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 73 Zoological Parks & Gardens Board Notes to the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2010
Net acquisition of non financial assets Other economic flows Supplies and services (from transactions) Other economic flows are changes in Supplies and services generally represent Purchases (and other acquisitions) the volume or value of an asset or liability cost of goods sold and the day to day of non financial assets less sales (or that do not result from transactions. It running costs, including maintenance disposals) of non financial assets less includes gains and losses from disposals, costs, incurred in the normal operations of depreciation plus changes in inventories revaluations and impairments of non the Board. and other movements in non financial current physical and intangible assets; assets. Includes only those increases or actuarial gains and losses arising from Transactions decreases in non financial assets resulting defined benefit superannuation plans; fair Transactions are those economic flows from transactions and therefore excludes value changes of financial instruments and that are considered to arise as a result write offs, impairment write downs and agricultural assets; and depletion of natural of policy decisions, usually an interaction revaluations. assets (non produced) from their use or between two entities by mutual agreement. removal. In simple terms, other economic They also include flows within an entity Net result flows are changes arising from market re such as depreciation where the owner is Net result is a measure of financial measurements. simultaneously acting as the owner of the performance of the operations for the depreciating asset and as the consumer Payables period. It is the net result of items of of the service provided by the asset. revenue, gains and expenses (including Includes short and long term trade debt Taxation is regarded as mutually agreed losses) recognised for the period, and accounts payable, grants and interest interactions between the government and excluding those that are classified as ‘other payable. taxpayers. Transactions can be in kind non owner changes in equity’. (e.g. assets provided/given free of charge Receivables or for nominal consideration) or where the Net result from transactions/net Includes short and long term trade credit final consideration is cash. In simple terms, operating balance and accounts receivable, grants, nett of transactions arise from the policy decisions Net result from transactions or net goods and service tax receivable and of the government. operating balance is a key fiscal aggregate interest receivable. and is revenue from transactions minus expenses from transactions. It Sales of goods and services is a summary measure of the ongoing Refers to revenue from the direct provision sustainability of operations. It excludes of goods and services and includes fees gains and losses resulting from changes and charges for services rendered, sales of in price levels and other changes in the goods and services, fees from regulatory volume of assets. It is the component services, work done as an agent for of the change in net worth that is due to private enterprises. It also includes rental transactions and can be attributed directly income under operating leases and on to government policies. produced assets such as buildings and entertainment, but excludes rent income Non financial assets from the use of non produced assets such Non financial assets are all assets that are as land. User charges includes sale of not ‘financial assets’ such as property, goods and services revenue. plant and equipment, vehicles etc.
74 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 75 76 ZOOS VICTORIA FINANCIAL REPORT 2009-10 DISCLOSURE Ministerial Directions, Report of Operations
INDEX Legislation Requirement Page Reference
Charter and Purpose
FRD 22B Manner of establishment and the relevant Ministers 33
FRD 22B Objectives, functions, powers and duties 33
FRD 22B Nature and range of services provided 2, 33
Management and Structure
FRD 22B Organisational structure 31, 35
Financial and Other Information
FRD 10 Disclosure index 76
FRD 12A Disclosure of major contracts 36
FRD 15B Executive officer disclosures 68
FRD 22B Operational and budgetary objectives and performance against objectives 32
FRD 22B Employment and conduct principles 29
FRD 22B Occupational health and safety policy 30
FRD 22B Summary of the financial results for the year 10
FRD 22B Significant changes in financial position during the year 36
FRD 22B Major changes or factors affecting performance 38
FRD 22B Subsequent events 36
FRD 22B Application and operation of Freedom of Information Act 1982 36
FRD 22B Compliance with building and maintenance provisions of Building Act 1993 38
FRD 22B Statement on National Competition Policy 37
FRD 22B Application and operation of the Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 37
FRD 22B Details of consultancies over $100,000 36
FRD 22B Details of consultancies under $100,000 36
FRD 22B Statement of availability of other information 39
FRD 25 Victorian Industry Participation Policy disclosures 38
FRD 29 Workforce Data disclosures 28
FRD 30 Standard requirements for the design and print of annual reports Throughout
SD 4.5.5 Risk management compliance attestation 36
SD 4.2(g) General information requirements 1-42
SD 4.2(j) Sign-off requirements 5, 6
Legislation
Building Act 1983 38
Financial Management Act 1994 Reporting requirement
Freedom of Information Act 1982 36
Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 37
Victorian Industry Participation Policy Act 2003 38
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