New faces at Kyabram Fauna Park

Katelyn McIntyre has joined the team as education co-ordinator, with Ambrose Burcher and Brendan Dixon joining as reptile and invertebrate keepers.

Former school teacher Ms McIntyre, who started in July, said her new role combined her two life passions: teaching and native animals.

“My passion for Australian fauna has peaked since having my own children and seeing the wonder, fascination and curiosity that animals bring to them,” she said.

Mr Burcher started in March and has experience working with a variety of Australian animals, but he said reptiles were his favourite.

“I love being able to talk to people about animals they fear or do not like and then have them come out of that conversation with a newfound appreciation of that animal or animals,” he said.

Fellow reptile keeper Brendan Dixon started last month and said he too was a reptile fanatic.

“I got my first pet blue-tongue at five years of age after pestering my parents for months,” he said.

Park general manager Lachlan Gordon said the new staff members would enhance the centre’s engagement with visitors and local schools through online learning, incursions and excursions, and help strengthen the park’s position as a conservation and education hub in Northern Victoria.

“While the park is currently closed due to coronavirus restrictions, we look forward to opening our doors to the public again soon," Mr Gordon said.