Wildlife Conservation Officer  

Rachael has been an integral part of Taronga since 2013, working at both the Western Plains Zoo and the Sydney sites. Rachael holds a Master of Science from the University of Sydney and a Bachelor of Science from the University of New South Wales. Throughout her career at Taronga, Rachael has focused primarily on Taronga's conservation programs. 

Rachael is currently responsible for the delivery of several of Taronga's key conservation projects in partnership with state government agencies and universities, with a particular focus on Australian mammals including koalas and chuditch. She also curates the Australian fauna collection at Taronga Western Plains Zoo. Rachael has established expertise in conservation breeding programs, applied conservation science, and the use of research and scientific knowledge to inform conservation management for wild populations. She excels in planning and executing wildlife translocation projects, applying scientific principles to conservation efforts, and enhancing genetic health through breeding programs. 

Rachael is an active member of several species recovery teams and metapopulation groups. With a strong background in wildlife conservation, research, and management, Rachael is committed to making a positive impact in the field and continues to contribute to the advancement of conservation efforts.