Taronga Western Plains Zoo is the toast of NSW having been announced the winner of the Major Tourist Attraction category and awarded silver in the Unique Accommodation category at the NSW Tourism Awards last night.

“We are so excited by the announcement and being crowned best major attraction in NSW,” said Taronga Western Plains Zoo Director, Steve Hinks.

“We have had so many challenges over the past years like so of our tourism industry colleagues, so to win this award is a real testament to our team and their resilience and dedication throughout drought, bushfires, a mouse plague and a pandemic.”

“A trip to Taronga Western Plains Zoo or an overnight stay at Zoofari Lodge are very special experiences that provide lasting holiday memories for families, so we are thrilled to be recognised as NSW’s best major attraction and to also receive a silver award for Unique Accommodation.”

The last financial year was a record breaking one for the Zoo’s visitation, thanks to a regional tourism boom on the back of last year’s lockdown period.

During the qualifying period for the NSW Tourism Awards, the Zoo opened its new Waterhole precinct and completed the redevelopment of its African Wild Dog precinct. The Zoo welcomed numerous new animal arrivals, which saw guests flocking to the popular family destination following the first Covid-19 lockdown period.

Zoofari Lodge saw its occupancy level climb to over 97% during the last financial year, and with strong forward bookings in 2022 it remains the must-do overnight experience at Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

Zoofari Lodge has an award-winning history having previously won numerous tourism awards including Best Unique Accommodation at the Australian Tourism Awards. So achieving a silver award for Unique Accommodation is another accolade for this popular overnight experience.

“We are really looking forward to the year ahead and continuing to welcome guests exploring regional NSW. Our state has so many great family destinations on offer and we really encourage everyone to get out and explore your backyard this year,” said Steve.

In 2022 the Zoo continues to develop and progress further with plans to open its newest precinct the Wildlife Hospital in mid-2022, plus more new arrivals are on the way.