Taronga, Dubbo zoo offers free entry to emergency workers, volunteers after bush fires

Emergency services personnel and volunteers such as police, firefighters, ambulance officers, paramedics, State Emergency Service volunteers and wildlife carers from WIRES and Sydney Metropolitan Wildlife Services will be welcomed at Taronga Zoo and Taronga Western Plains Zoo, in Dubbo.

The decision was made following the spate of bushfires across the state. At 9am on Sunday morning there were 66 bush and grass fires in NSW. Half of those were not contained.

Taronga chief executive officer Cam Kerr said the free passes to the two zoos was a way to say thank you to all those involved.

"Here at Taronga, we are indebted to the dedicated and selfless emergency services personnel, volunteers and wildlife carers who have gone above and beyond to save and protect people and wildlife across the state," Mr Kerr said.

"We know this is only a small gesture, but we hope during this challenging time we can at least offer a little rest and relaxation for this devoted group and their family and friends to spend some time."

Taronga has also donated 500 family passes to St Vincent de Paul Society for those directly affected by the fires.

Eligible responders will be able to register for themselves and up to three family members of friends to visit either the Dubbo or Sydney zoo at a date of their choosing before the end of this year.

Tickets will be available to claim from Tuesday, November 26.

More information, including how emergency personnel can register for the free tickets, can be found at Taronga.org.au/thanks.