The incredible women behind the National Zoo & Aquarium and Jamala Wildlife Lodge bring passion, expertise, and heart to everything they do. From animal care and conservation to luxury hospitality and guest experiences, this dedicated team ensures that every visitor encounter supports a greater purpose: protecting wildlife and inspiring connection. Together, they represent more than 120 years of experience, driving innovation, compassion, and excellence across one of Canberra’s most loved attractions.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Renee: I’ve worked at the National Zoo & Aquarium (NZA) for over 18 years, serving as General Manager since 2018 and Director since 2024. During this time, I have closely collaborated with owners Richard and Maureen Tindale, leading major developments and contributing to the zoo’s progress in conservation, animal welfare, sustainability, and visitor experience.
Chloe: This coming April marks two years since I joined the Jamala family. I oversee all aspects of food and beverage for our in-house guests. We’ve also recently introduced a unique Jamala Dinner only experience, which allows visitors to enjoy an exclusive dinner in our stunning Rainforest Cave Dining Room and meet Jake & Mischka, our beautiful white lions.
Michelle: As the HR & Business Manager, my days are anything but ordinary. For just under two years, I have championed our amazing team, helped grow both the zoo and the lodge and ensured that everything runs smoother than a meerkat on Monday morning.
Letizia: I have been in my current role as Assistant General Manager for a year and a half. What I love most about working here is the opportunity to combine luxury hospitality with a strong conservation message while providing guests with unforgettable stays, as well as the great team banter.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
Jessica: I joined NZA in 2014 while studying Primary Teaching, combining my love of animals with education. Starting just before Jamala opened, I witnessed its incredible impact and the zoo’s transformative growth.
Sophie: My zoo career began 20 years ago as a volunteer at the NZA. After moving to Perth briefly, I returned to Canberra, progressing through leadership positions, including Wildlife Supervisor. Two years ago, I became Animal Care Manager, now overseeing 45 keepers and more than 370 animals!
Amanda: My journey at Jamala and NZA began after I had the opportunity to stay as a guest. Now, I have the privilege of leading and mentoring the next generation of women in business here, and I’m passionate about helping them grow, find their voice, and thrive in their careers.
What do you consider to be your key strengths?
Chloe: Guest satisfaction is at the heart of everything I do. I take great pride in ensuring every guest leaves with a memorable experience, feeling genuinely cared for and valued. I believe that attention to detail, empathy, and consistency are essential to achieving that.
Chara: I’ve always believed that strong relationships are at the heart of great hospitality, and this mindset has really shaped my career. As I’ve grown into management roles, those same skills have translated into leading teams, supporting staff, and fostering a workplace culture where everyone feels valued.
Sophie: Multitasking and prioritising are crucial in my role. Strong communication, effective delegation, and strategic planning allow me to lead 45+ keepers efficiently, ensuring each team member’s strengths contribute to successful, well-managed projects.
Shelley: During my entire tenure with the Zoo, I have had the pleasure of working as a Zoo Keeper, taking care of the entire Wildlife Department and venturing into our humanities department, which has given me the appreciation and understanding of each individual member of our team who dedicates themselves to conservation and preservation.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
Maureen: Very often, you have to go with your instincts, and you need to trust them. All success takes effort and sacrifice – I see this on a regular basis with the female managers who work with us.
Renee: My advice is to trust in your abilities and pursue your passions fearlessly. Seek out mentors who inspire and challenge you and build a network of supportive peers who share your commitment to growth. Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn, and always back yourself, even in the face of uncertainty.
Chara: Don’t underestimate the value of your voice and perspective. Confidence grows with experience, but back yourself early – share ideas and trust your worth. Success isn’t always linear – embrace change, stay curious, and find joy and purpose in your work. Passion and authenticity open the most rewarding doors.
Emily: AI is transforming work rapidly. Many current skills may fade, but curiosity, critical thinking and asking the right questions remain vital for learning, adapting, and using AI effectively. Staying curious and learning how to think critically will always be valuable.
Amanda: Success in business isn’t about knowing everything — it’s about being willing to learn, adapt, and lead with integrity. For women entering the field, staying true to your values while confidently stepping into new opportunities will set you apart.
What strategies do you use to stay motivated at work?
Maureen: My motivations are that I love what I do, helping animals and their conservation, and I love what we have all created and achieved between us. Like everyone here, I all want it to keep evolving and growing.
Emily: I stay motivated by regularly asking myself, “What can I do better, and how?” There’s always something new to learn or improve. That mindset keeps me engaged and striving to grow.
Shelley: I keep motivated by balancing my work and personal life, and my driving force is my relationship with the animals that push me to be the best every day.
Tracey: Watching our guests create unforgettable memories at both Jamala and the Zoo is one of our biggest motivators. We’re constantly inspired by the amazing feedback we receive! And of course, having the animals around every day is a bonus we never take for granted.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
Maureen: I am fortunate that, as I get so much out of what we do here, I don’t have the need to unwind. But if I did, golf and shopping would certainly help.
Michelle: Sipping a glass of wine, dancing like nobody’s watching, or soaking in a bubble bath with the bubbles piled higher than Everest.
Tracey: Relaxing on the farm with my gorgeous Llamas!
Letizia: Taking a walk through the zoo to see the adorable animals.
National Zoo & Aquarium and Jamala Wildlife Lodge
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