Taronga Zoo attraction to ‘retire’ after 35 years

Taronga Zoo has announced that its beloved Sky Safari will be retired after 35 years, with zoo visitors having to wait two years before its replacement is installed.

The zoo announced that the gondola service will make its last trip in less than two weeks on January 31.

The service was first installed in 1987 before being upgraded in 2000, however Taronga Zoo has described it as an “aging asset” that has “unfortunately reached the end of its useful life and significant upgrades are needed to keep it operational.” .

“During its lifetime, it has carried more than 20 million passengers, including a royal or two, and even carried the Olympic torch,” the zoo said in a statement.

“His retirement paves the way for a proposed enhancement that would transform Sky Safari into an unforgettable and fully accessible family experience.”

If approved, the zoo’s plan for an improved Sky Safari could open its doors to patrons in 2025.

“While we are in the early planning stages, the revitalized Sky Safari will feature additional larger and more accessible gondolas, stretch along an expanded route, and provide greater access to the zoo for visitors of all ages and abilities.”

First installed in its iconic position in 1987 and then updated in 2000, the Sky Safari is one of the zoo’s most beloved experiences. Image: Taronga Zoo

First installed in its iconic position in 1987 and then updated in 2000, the Sky Safari is one of the zoo’s most beloved experiences. Image: Taronga Zoo

The Sky Safari was especially loved for its views of Sydney Harbor and for helping visitors avoid Taronga Zoo’s infamous steep hill.

Some have criticized the removal of the gondola and the timing of the announcement as making the zoo inaccessible, with one visitor urging Taronga to “do better”.

“It is so disappointing that this is being announced less than two weeks in advance. As someone with limited mobility, this was the only way I could visit the zoo with my young son,” she said on social media.

First installed in its iconic position in 1987 and then updated in 2000, the Sky Safari is one of the zoo’s most beloved experiences. Image: Taronga Zoo

“I also have limited mobility and my first thoughts upon reading this were ‘Well then I won’t be able to visit until 2025’ and ‘…and you’re announcing this on such short notice?” another person replied. .

Taronga Zoo has said that it is “committed to ensuring that we help move our visitors safely and efficiently around the zoo.”

“If coming by ferry, guests can enter via the lower entrance on Bradleys Head Road or take the regular public bus from the ferry terminal to the upper main entrance,” it said in a statement.

“Taronga Zoo will provide additional buses in peak and holiday periods to help shuttle guests to the upper entrance.”