A new addition at Rockhampton Zoo will provide visitors with a richer viewing experience when next visiting Valkyrie, our beloved Wedgetail Eagle.
Rockhampton Region Mayor, Tony Williams said a brand-new, larger enclosure has been completed and provides more visibility of the beautiful bird that Valkyrie is.
“We’re thankful for the State Government’s $540,000 Works for Queensland funding that enabled us to deliver the new enclosure as part of our greater redevelopment project,” Mayor Williams said.
“We are really excited to see the new enclosure open and thrilled to see Valkyrie enjoying her new space already.”
Acting Premier Steven Miles said Works for Queensland funding has helped to create 859 jobs across 42 projects in Rockhampton.
“I’m proud to be part of a government that’s backing our regions and helping deliver infrastructure, like this great new eagle enclosure at Rocky Zoo.
“The Works for Queensland program is making a big difference across regional Queensland by helping councils deliver projects that will create good jobs and make these communities even better places to live.
“Already $800 million has been allocated to councils outside South East Queensland through this program, helping deliver close to 2200 projects.”
Along with an enhanced viewing experience, Parks, Sport and Public Spaces Councillor Cherie Rutherford the new enclosure provides an improved environment for Valkyrie to live and play.
“The welfare and safety of our animals is paramount, and Valkyrie’s new enclosure will see her build up more strength in her wings with a longer flight aviary of 15 metres,” Cr Rutherford said.
“The new enclosure is located opposite the Kangaroos at the Zoo, meaning Valkyrie is now living near her Australian buddies too.
“In future, the old eagle enclosure will become the home of our blue and gold macaws, so that the current macaw enclosure can be removed to make way for more exciting future developments at the Zoo,” she said.
Rockhampton MP Barry O’Rourke said the new enclosure will be a real drawcard for the region.
“It will make Rockhampton Zoo an even better place for the community to connect and enjoy the great lifestyle here, as well as attract more tourists to this great city.
“I’m sure locals and visitors to Central Queensland will be flocking to see Valkyrie in her bigger and better home.
“This is an outstanding result for local businesses, local tradies, the local economy and local families.”
Rockhampton Zoo is owned and operated by Rockhampton Regional Council and is open seven days a week from 9am – 4.15pm (including all public holidays except Christmas Day and Anzac Day). Entry is free.
