By KATIE DE VERTEUIL
ON MONDAY morning, two of Queensland’s most iconic brands, Australia Zoo and Greyhound Australia headed to Noosa’s Lions Park to launch a new and improved coach service connecting passengers in Noosa to Australia Zoo in Beerwah on the Sunshine Coast.
Free egg and bacon rolls drew in a decent crowd of between 50 and 100 with holiday-makers, backpackers and locals joining in the celebrations. They were joined by 91.9 Sea FM’s BarRat, Jess and guest host Lisa Hyde, plus Australia Zoo’s exotic wildlife Jub Jub the iguana, Pablo the boa constrictor and Queto the macaw.
The launch marks the continuation of a solid partnership that will not only boost tourism opportunities on the Sunshine Coast, but contribute significantly to the wildlife conservation efforts of Australia Zoo – with a $2 conservation contribution per passenger being donated to Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors with each Greyhound travel and entry package purchased.
This conservation donation is expected to amount to almost $50,000 per year, generating much-needed funds to save sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife patients at the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, the major project of Australia Zoo’s charity, Wildlife Warriors.
“This is the best news and a huge reason for today’s celebration,” Business Development Manager for Tourism at Australia Zoo Erina Kilmore said.
“As our hospital is funded solely through donations, the extra funds will make a huge difference to our conservation efforts here at the zoo.
“The donation is also about increasing awareness.”
The red Greyhound coaches now feature colourful Bindi’s Island branding, showing off Australia Zoo’s beautiful macaws and the incredible three-storey treehouse featured in the new island exhibit.
With the new and improved service running daily and on the roads now, tourists and locals can be easily connected between Noosa and the iconic conservation destination and major tourist attraction.
Additions to the new coaches also include free wi-fi, USB charging points and reclining seats.
The Noosa to Australia Zoo service has various stops along the way, including Peregian, Coolum, Maroochydore and Mooloolaba to ensure that visitors to Australia Zoo can enjoy a relaxing day out without the hassle of driving.
To book tickets or to find out more about this service, head to www.greyhound.com.au/content/australia-zoo
To find out more about Australia Zoo, and to book tickets go to: www.australiazoo.com.au
