A new multi-purpose stage was recently completed on the Central Lawn at Adelaide Zoo providing an additional, professional site for presentations, functions and events as well as a much needed alternative for the Macaw Free-flight Presentation. This will alleviate the inconvenience of being near main pathways, crowds and traffic flow, making the presentation a more enjoyable and safer experience for the public, Keepers and macaws.

The new stage draws attention to a once forgotten area of the central lawn.

Power points will soon be installed on either side of the stage, as well as deck lights to up-light the native tree, Podocarpus elatus – Brown Pine, and to also highlight the front of the stage and stairs for safety during after hours functions. Perching has also been installed on the edge of the stage, but is removable to allow this site to be utilized for a variety of purposes, including Zoomobile encounters during the school holidays. This site was generally a forgotten corner of the Central Lawn but the stage will now provide a focal point set amongst tropical vegetation. The garden nature strip fences have been realigned to incorporate the stage and, as budget allows, the landscaping will mirror current vegetation in the surrounding area. All going well with the free-flight relocation vegetation will be planted to reflect the South East Asian region.

Brenton Pike
Senior Horticulturist, Zoos SA