The new event spaces are expected to open this spring at Perth Zoo, offering capacity for up to 800 attendees, as well as small board rooms for 15.
The new function centre is called The Maali, which means “black swan” in the language of the Noongar, the local Indigenous peoples.
Perth Zoo is an eight-minute ferry ride from Elizabeth Quay in the Perth’s CBD, making the event spaces an ideal offsite option for those conferencing at Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre which is located just behind the quay.
“Restaurant Associates Venues is delighted to be the new catering partner for the delivery of food and beverage services at Perth Zoo,” said Compass Group Australia executive director, Michael Lambourne.
“We are passionate about our commitment to sustainability and supporting local communities. Our menus will incorporate locally sourced produce and will be tailored to deliver value to drive customer satisfaction and engagement.
“The stunning new retail and function facilities will be transformational for the Zoo and the perfect platform for us to introduce our quality and innovative catering services.
“We believe The Maali will provide Perth and wider the community with leading function and boardroom facilities unmatched in the state.”
Restaurant Associates already operates the hospitality offerings at Melbourne and Werribee Zoos, as well as the National Gallery of Australia in Canberra and the National Gallery of Victoria, in Melbourne, alongside several other venues.
The function centre is part of the 2040 master plan for the Zoo, which has received $50 million in funding from the current state government.
“This is a very exciting time for Perth Zoo as we prepare to launch the first projects under our Master Plan,” said Western Australia’s environment minister, Reece Whitby.
“The function centre will raise the bar for event spaces in Perth. It will give the Zoo an opportunity to reach new audiences and welcome even more visitors through the door.”
