Welcome alumni and friends

Welcome alumni and friends

At Taronga we believe in the power of communities to effect change and achieve our vision to secure a shared future for wildlife and people. As a Taronga graduate, current or former Taronga student or intern, a Youth at the Zoo (YATZ) member or a critical friend, we invite you to join our Alumni and Friends community!

As a member of Taronga’s Alumni and Friends we will provide opportunities for you to connect with Taronga including invitations to Taronga’s Lunch and Learn series. Recent keynote speakers have included Order of Australia winner, Debbie Cox and CEO and Founder of the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, Dr. Siew Te Wong. We will also share: 

  • Stories that highlight the range of career pathways in and opportunities to contribute to conservation;
  • Information on new and innovative research being undertaken by Taronga in support of wildlife conservation; 
  • New education programs should you be interested in further study; 
  • Opportunities to join the Taronga team as a staff member or volunteer; and 
  • Networking opportunities. 

This information will be shared bi-annually in our Alumni and Friends newsletter and in advance of specific events including the Lunch and Learn series.  

This edition's stories

One Year On

In 2018, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, officially opened the Taronga Institute of Science & Learning. Read about what has happened in the past 12 months.

Meet Dr. Justine O'Brien

Ever wondered what it takes to become the Manager of Conservation Science at Taronga? We sit down with Dr. Justine O’Brien to hear about her journey.

Taronga to be breeding hub for Bilbies

The first Greater Bilbies have been released into the Sanctuary in Dubbo to help save the species from extinction.

Conservation Education Masterclass

In October, Taronga hosted a Masterclass for the University of Sydney’s Master of Education (Taronga Conservation Education) for future students to taste test new curriculum.

My Taronga Journey

Meet Ellen Wilson, a Taronga graduate who now works as a Keeper and Guest Experience Officer at Taronga Zoo Sydney. 

Opportunities to stay involved

We regularly post employee and volunteer vacancies at our Zoos, or you could undertake further study with Taronga.