Taronga’s 2016 Centenary has begun with help from renowned supporters like Sir David Attenborough and Dr Jane Goodall, to actor Naomi Watts and rock legend Jimmy Barnes.

The supporters have joined Taronga’s efforts to take definitive action on behalf of 10 ‘Legacy’ Species that urgently need human help including Australia’s own Bilby and Corroboree Frog, and also the Sumatran Rhino and the world’s most traded animal, the Pangolin.

They have generously offered their help in ambassadorial roles including everything from Sir David’s message of encouragement for Taronga,  to Sydney wildlife photography icon, Rick Stevens, whose remarkable imagery has captured the charisma of the Zoo’s wild creatures for over 40 years.

Taronga Director and CE, Cameron Kerr, said: “All of our supporters have been inspired by wildlife and Taronga’s continuing endeavours to help ensure a sustainable future for wildlife and people.”

“In this pivotal 100th year, in addition to our existing programs we are setting a grand course to make a lasting and positive impact on the future of several charismatic and vitally important animal species.”

“Taronga has committed to support 10 species for the next decade, and over this time effectively turn around their fate so they can thrive for another 100 years.”

“The ongoing support of our ambassadors is critical in engaging the community to join us in the challenge.”

Globally recognised primatologist, Dr Jane Goodall, sent a special video commending, thanking and challenging Taronga in the Zoo’s Centenary, concluding it with a personally delivered chimpanzee call of welcome. See: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMQj2HyBkm8&feature=youtu.be

 Mr Kerr said: “We are humbled and proud to receive the support of the ambassadors and indeed of all our supporters over the years, as this Centenary is not just our story but theirs as well. We are committed to delivering great outcomes this year and in the future.”

“Our Centenary ambassadors, like Zoo supporter and Goodwill advocate Kerryn Baird, film and comedy star John Cleese, and comedian Jean Kittson, represent a broad cross-section of the community.  Some have very specific links, such as media personality and admitted Twitcher or bird watcher, Rove McManus, and actor Liev Schreiber, who has helped bring attention to the plight of the Tasmanian Devil and Taronga’s involvement in its conservation.

“We are delighted to welcome ambassadors from the Nine Network including Amber Sherlock, Ken Sutcliffe and Beau Ryan. They join others including the social commentator Adam Ferrier, wildlife champion and media personality Simon Reeve who personally helped publicise Taronga’s 2014 Wild Rhinos campaign and presenter and author Adam Spencer whose remarkable abilities join maths, comedy and mass communication.”

Taronga’s Centenary Ambassadors

Sir David Attenborough

International Naturalist and conservation champion

Kerryn Baird      

Goodwill advocate and charity supporter

Jimmy Barnes

Australian music icon, singer-songwriter

John Cleese

International actor and comedian

Adam Ferrier

Social commentator, psychologist, media presenter

Dr Jane Goodall               

International Primatologist, ethologist, anthropologist, and UN Messenger of Peace

Jean Kittson

Australian performer, writer and comedian

Rove McManus               

Award winning television presenter, producer, comedian, radio host and media personality

Simon Reeve

Australian television presenter and host, and wildlife conservationist

Beau Ryan

Television presenter and ex Rugby League player

Liev Schreiber   

American actor, producer, director, and screenwriter

Amber Sherlock               

Australian journalist and television news presenter

Adam Spencer

Australian radio presenter, comedian, and media personality

Rick Stevens

Dual Australian Press Photographer of the Year winner, wildlife photographer and conservationist

Ken Sutcliffe

Sporting journalist and television personality

Naomi Watts

Award winning actress and UN Goodwill Ambassador