September 18, 2008 Click on image to enlarge Taronga Western Plains Zoo is working with the Australian Sports Commission's Active After-school Communities Program to help engage primary-school aged children in physical activity that is fun and enjoyable. Today students from Dubbo West Public School will utilise the cycling facilities at the Zoo and ride around the circuit taking in the animals whilst undertaking physical activity. The Active After-school Communities (AASC) Program provides primary-school aged children with access to free, structured physical activity programs in an after school time slot.  The program aims to enhance physical activity levels of primary-school aged children, increase participation and stimulate community involvement in sport and structured physical activity. "The Zoo is proud to be apart of the AASC Program, it is a valuable program for children in the local community," said Matt Fuller, General Manager, Taronga Western Plains Zoo. "Eumungerie Public School and Buninyong Public School AASC programs have already benefited from the Zoo's involvement with both schools taking advantage of the cycling facilities at the Zoo," said Matt.  "It is great to see the children enjoying themselves whilst being active and riding around the Zoo," said Matt. "The AASC program has been celebrating the Olympics by undertaking sports played at the Olympics.  Having the opportunity to utilise the Zoo and its cycling facilities has allowed the AASC program to offer something different to schools to help engage their students in physical activity," said Tracey Quayle, Regional Coordinator for the Active After-school Communities Program. "The AASC Program operates in 20 schools and out of school hours care services across the western region including places such as Dubbo, Geurie, Enngonia and Pilliga.  The program now reaches more than 480 primary school aged children in the region," said Tracey. "The Zoo's involvement in the AASC Program adds another dimension to the program offered in the western region as it provides a unique venue with which to conduct physical activity," said Tracey. Taronga Western Plains Zoo is open everyday of the year from 9am to 4pm (exit gates close at 5pm).  For more information about the Zoo contact 02 6881 1413 or visit www.taronga.org.au. For more information contact Media Relations:Ph: +61 2 6881 1413 Fax: +61 2 6884 1722 Email: wpz@zoo.nsw.gov.au