Vegas zoo won't be at Coast's cost

AUSTRALIA Zoo insists the resumption of talks with Las Vegas government officials to build a zoo at the gambling mecca will not come at the expense of its Beerwah site.

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AUSTRALIA Zoo insists the resumption of talks with Las Vegas government officials to build a zoo at the gambling mecca will not come at the expense of its Beerwah site.

The zoo confirmed yesterday that the Las Vegas project was back on the agenda , after the zoo's late founder, Steve Irwin, first mooted the idea in 2004.

However, the zoo said the project - which would reportedly cost $40 million - would not affect its ambitious expansion plans on the Sunshine Coast.

It said the expansion of the Beerwah site and the construction of the Las Vegas zoo could be carried out simultaneously.

An Australia Zoo spokeswoman said the expansion of the Beerwah site, which involves a 135-hectare open-range safari based on wild

life experiences in Africa, South-East Asia and North America, was progressing.

“We are currently planning stage one, comprising a 300-room hotel complete with a wildlife experience that will transform 35 hectares of vacant land into a wildlife oasis,” she said.

“Recognising the major contribution to the economy made by Australia Zoo and its potential to increase benefits to the Queensland economy by its expansion program, the state government is facilitating this exciting new venture.”

Australia Zoo director Wes Mannion said a Las Vegas zoo would give Australian tourism a huge boost.

Florida and Los Angeles are two other locations under consideration.

“It would be like establishing a window of opportunity for America to experience a taste of Australia with the hope of enticing them to visit our beautiful country,” Mr Mannion said.

“This will enable Australia Zoo to educate millions of people on the importance of conservation and wildlife protection.

“The benefits from this project will go toward our wildlife projects in Australia and around the world.”

The zoo said it was Mr Irwin's dream to bring conservation to the world stage and there was no better place to do this than Las Vegas.

In 2004, Mr Irwin said a Vegas zoo would be an “unparalleled vehicle to promote Australia internationally”.

Australia Zoo responded to reports that “croc wrestling” would be held at the proposed US zoo by saying the plan was to hold croc demonstrations similar to those held at Australia Zoo every day.