Valkyrie the Wedgetail Eagle at the Rockhampton Zoo will be receiving a belated Christmas present with a brand-new enclosure being constructed.
Member for Rockhampton Barry O'Rourke said the Palaszczuk Government was delivering for Rockhampton through Works for Queensland.
"Rockhampton has one of the best lifestyles in Queensland, with locals and tourists alike loving it here and the Rockhampton Zoo is a big part of that," Mr O'Rourke said.
"This investment by the Palaszczuk Government means Rockhampton's Zoo much loved Wedgetail Eagle will get a new enclosure, making the Zoo even better.
"The Palaszczuk Government is making our local lifestyle even better, and creating eight good jobs for locals to do it."
Parks, Sport and Public Space Councillor Cherie Rutherford said this is a delightful project for the Rockhampton Zoo and it is a fantastic way to kick off 2023.
"The enclosure for Valkyrie is all thanks to the $540,000 funding from the State Government through the Works for Queensland program," Cr Rutherford said.
"Construction begun this week and the project is estimated to be completed by May 2023.
"The new enclosure will be built opposite the Kangaroos at the Zoo which will get Valkyrie down with her Australian buddies in the bottom section.
"Not only is it this an exciting new home for Valkyrie, but the enclosure will also give her a longer flight aviary of 15m so we can build up the strength more in her wings.
"Valkyrie came to us after being hit by a car a few years ago, and while her injuries mean she won't be able to be released into the wild again we're excited for her to have a more spacious and comfortable home here with us.
"Valkyrie's new home will also allow for visitors to view her better and see the beautiful bird she is.
"The current eagle enclosure will become a new home for the blue and gold macaws, with the old macaw enclosure being removed.
"Removing the old macaw enclosure will help facilitate further developments at the Zoo.
"When visiting the zoo, please be mindful of any workers undertaking these projects. We will endeavour to keep the disturbance to the public at a minimum.
"You can visit the Zoo from 9.00am to 4.15pm, seven days a week, including all public holidays apart from Christmas Day, and entry if free."
