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Rockhampton Zoo has carried out a simulated animal escape drill, with staff looking for Zoo Director Liz Bellward dressed up as a giant bird exhibit that had escaped.

The simulated escape of a cassowary took place during opening hours and involved guests and employees. The exercise was kept secret by zoo management, with staff only realising it was a drill when they saw Bellward in the costume of the large bird.

Bellward explained “unfortunately, there were no cassowary costumes available but an ostrich costume did help play the part.”

Commenting on the exercise, Bellward noted “shortly after opening, staff were notified that a cassowary had escaped and they had to respond quickly to ensure the safety of the visitors, staff and the animal.

“Up until seeing the costume, no one was aware that it was a drill. The team rose to the challenge and did exceptionally well under pressure and surprise.”

Bellward said the exercise was “about teamwork, communication, and putting into practice the detailed procedures we’ve developed for these rare situations”.

She advised that carrying out the drill during opening hours meant the Zoo‘s staff “could respond under realistic conditions and also practice crowd management and first aid response.

“For this, a big thank you goes to our visitors who participated on the day - it was greatly appreciated.”

Explaining the protocol, Rockhampton Councillor, Cherie Rutherford stated “Rockhampton Zoo has detailed procedures to prevent and respond to animal escapes, but in the unlikely event one does occur, it’s vital that staff know exactly what to do.

“The zoo conducts tabletop escape exercises annually to help ensure that staff are well-prepared should an emergency ever occur.

“This year’s training was the first live experience and an opportunity for staff to put their training into practice.”

Images: Rockhampton Zoo Director Liz Bellward dressed up as an escaped giant bird during the escape exercise (top) and Rockhampton Zoo team members involved in the exercise (below). Credit: Rockhampton Zoo.

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