Construction of Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s new wildlife hospital is officially underway, with Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders announcing local firm David Payne Constructions has been granted the tender for the project.

Mr Saunders joined representatives from Taronga Western Plains Zoo and David Payne Constructions as the first ground was broken on the project on Monday.

“Just four months ago I stood here at the zoo with the Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for the Environment to announce $14 million for this project, and it is great news that things are progressing so quickly,” Mr Saunders said.

“The NSW Nationals are committed to building a stronger regional NSW, and part of that is ensuring multi-million dollar projects like this are built by local companies whenever possible.

“Once completed the new wildlife hospital will become part of the zoo experience where guests can see the wonderful veterinary and science teams in action and learn about the important work they undertake on a daily basis.”

Director Steve Hinks said the project is an exciting step forward for the Zoo.

“We’re really pleased to be working with David Payne Constructions on another significant project, it follows on from the most recent project of The Waterhole precinct that has proven to be very popular with our guests,” Mr Hinks said.

“We are very excited for construction work to commence on our new Wildlife Hospital. The facility will allow us to expand the critical work of our veterinary team in their care for injured and sick wildlife, as well as the conservation and preventative health care programs at the Zoo.”

Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s Wildlife Hospital sees more than 600 cases through its doors annually, and the new purpose-built Wildlife Hospital will dramatically enhance the zoo’s capacity and capability to respond to wildlife emergencies such as drought, bushfire and flood.