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District
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BIRDS SINGING AT NEW WILDLIFE PARK

District
by Marcia Czerniak
May 23, 2003

THE birds were singing as the new Caversham Wildlife Park sanctuary was officially opened at Whiteman Park yesterday.

Caversham's relocation to Whiteman Park meant 1500 animals made the move to the newly-developed, eight-hectare wildlife park, twice the size of the previous enclosure.

With an overall cost of $2 million, the majority of the funds were provided by the State Government.

Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the WA Planning Commission had contributed $1.5 million.

Whiteman Park acting manager Michael Groasby said the new wildlife park was part of a strategic plan for Whiteman Park.

He said it was previously identified that Whiteman Park needed more complimentary services, and Caversham suited the park perfectly.

Caversham Wildlife Park owner David Thorne, who has operated the park for 15 years, will continue to do so at the new facility.

Mr Thorne said it had been his family's dream to leave a special facility for the community that would ensure the long-term preservation of the native animals.

The wildlife sanctuary will add to the 4300ha park's features, which include rides and displays operated by the Bennett Brook heritage railway, the Motor Museum of Western Australia, Perth Electric Tramway Society, a tractor museum, the Bus Preservation Society of Western Australia and many picnic areas and bushwalking trails.

Entry to Whiteman Park is free but there is a charge to enter the Caversham Wildlife Park.