WTA Conference 27-30 October 2026
Many thanks to the following:
“In 2009, Zoos Victoria witnessed the last call of the Christmas Island Pipistrelle Bat – a moment that profoundly shaped the organisation, sparking a transformation to become more than an attraction and embark on a transformation to become a world‑leading zoo‑based conservation organisation dedicated to fighting extinction. Today, saving wildlife is not just what we do; it’s who we are. Across Healesville Sanctuary, Melbourne Zoo, Kyabram Fauna Park, and Werribee Open Range Zoo, we connect 3 million visitors and 390,000 paid members each year to wildlife. By creating immersive and profound experiences that strengthen human–wildlife connections, we inspire action and help shape a sustainable, wildlife‑rich future”
The two keynotes from Zoos Victoria usually charge for their presentations, but are doing so for free this time.
Saffron Aid for their generous sponsorship (orange-bellied parrot level: see Sponsorship prospectus )
Further details on Saffron, who assist many social and environmental projects, will appear here soon. Meantime, from their website: “Working to achieve positive outcomes for the environment, from urban and rural landscapes, to native forests and deserts, rivers and oceans. We will also strive to achieve protection of animals and habitats, from rewilding initiatives to species specific protections?
People for Wildlife, for their generous sponsorship (orange-bellied parrot level: see Sponsorship prospectus )
People For Wildlife (PFW) is an agile conservation charity protecting and restoring biodiverse habitats globally by creating nature-based economic opportunities for the communities that live within them. Our approach centres on circular restoration that combines the principles of circular economy (sustainable development and social inclusion) with landscape restoration (recovering ecological integrity and enhancing human well-being). By empowering local communities to build sustainable nature-based livelihoods, they reap tangible economic benefits from the land and water on which they live. This creates a powerful feedback loop: communities invested in their landscapes drive stronger, lasting conservation outcomes.
Moonlit Sanctuary for their discounted conference dinner and free tour, and allowing us to join in their 25th anniversary celebrations,
Discover the magic of Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, where conservation and unforgettable wildlife encounters come together. For 25 years, Moonlit Sanctuary has been dedicated to protecting Australia’s rare and endangered species, playing a vital role in recovery programs for the critically endangered orange-bellied parrot, pookilas, and other threatened species. As a longstanding member of Wildlife Tourism Australia (WTA), we are proud to connect visitors with nature while supporting meaningful conservation outcomes.
Phillip Island Nature Parks for their raffle prize of a free tour
Green Publications for donation of two Working in Wildlife Tourism books for raffle prizes.
Wild Coast Cruises for their half-price tour offer to delegates before or after our conference (scroll down for details).
Special 50% discount on Wildlife Coast Cruises: seals, penguins, whales …
Wildlife Coast Cruises, an WTA member, operates advanced eco-certified boat tours showcasing the spectacular marine landscapes of Phillip Island and Wilsons Promontory. Their cruises offer unforgettable encounters with seals, dolphins and migrating whales, while exploring some of Victoria’s most dramatic and beautiful coastlines.
Guests can choose from whale watching adventures, visits to Australia’s largest breeding fur seal colony, sunset cruises or journeys into Wilsons Promontory Marine National Park. Onboard 20-metre catamarans, you’ll enjoy indoor and outdoor seating, a licensed bar, and passionate staff sharing insights into the wildlife, habitats and conservation of the region.
