The move marks a final step in Hammons Holdings completing its purchase of the Zoo, adding the landmark Western Sydney destination to its expanding portfolio of attractions across Greater Sydney.
Once the acquisition is finalised, Hammons Holdings becomes the sole shareholder and operator of Sydney Zoo, home to more than 4,000 animals over a 16.5 hectare site in Eastern Creek.
Since opening in late 2019 the zoo has hosted more than 4.5 million visitors and won multiple tourism industry awards.
Hammons Holdings also announced plans by BridgeClimb Sydney, which it has operated since 2018, for a $10M upgrade of the Pylon Lookout & Museum at the southern end of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
The upgrade, which is subject to approval from the Heritage Council of NSW, will transform the Pylon into an immersive and contemporary experience that blends the Bridge’s rich heritage with modern storytelling, offering visitors a new way to connect with one of Australia’s most iconic structures.
The Sydney Zoo purchase and plans to transform the Pylon site strengthen Hammons Holdings position as a leading attractions operator in Australia.
Hammons Holdings was a foundation investor and has been represented on the Board of Sydney Zoo since its inception in 2015. Group CEO David Hammon and Head of Strategic Growth Amanda Byrne will jointly oversee the zoo’s integration into the wider Hammons Holdings portfolio while a long-term CEO is appointed.
Mr Hammon said the group was excited by the opportunity to drive the next phase of the zoo’s growth and consolidate its place as a premier visitor destination in western Sydney.
“This is a world class wildlife experience in the heart of one of the fastest-growing regions in the country,” he said.
“Sydney Zoo is a natural fit for us in so many ways. It’s ideally suited to our expertise and passion for creating world-class visitor experiences, and the alignment with our other attractions are compelling, especially with the growth in
visitor numbers expected after Western Sydney International Airport opens next year,” he said.
“As a foundation investor, we were closely involved in the zoo’s establishment and early operations. We know the attraction well and as the new operator, can hit the ground running.
“Working with Sydney Zoo’s experienced management and team, we look forward to enhancing the zoo experience and advancing its contribution to conservation of threatened species,” he said.
