This tour will engage local secondary science, geography and design and technology students to; understand the occupation and profession of landscape architecture as a STEM profession, view the incorporation of STEM in a familiar and fun environment, where such connections may not have previously been made, and to encourage students to consider a STEM career, including Landscape Architecture.

Students will be taken on a tour of the play space at the zoo with the lead design team as they unpack all the design and STEM elements in an entertaining and interesting manner.

The facility is centrally located and seamlessly incorporated with its surrounds, this play space is composed of a range of interconnected elements that offer an all ages, inclusive experience that is non-prescriptive. The design, rich in science, technology, engineering an maths, is strongly linked with the character of the site, celebrates local fauna and offers moments of delight, intrigue, danger and pause. Robust materials and a diversity of play opportunities connect seamlessly with adjacent functions – including alfresco dining – in a delightful and whimsical manner that is engaging and bespoke, while sensitively addressing and acknowledging existing vegetation and site levels. This is play space design at its best: functional, fun and just that little bit magical too.

Following endorsement of the Perth Zoo Masterplan 2040 a first tranche of projects has kick-started the transformation of this much-loved institution. Complementing a new Café, recently constructed in the heart of the Zoo, Hassell has designed a new Playground which is already having a significant impact on the Zoo’s community profile and its visitation numbers.

A great space, that through design, supports a healthy community and a sustainable planet.

The event is gratefully supported by the Australian Government.