Author Talk with Rhonda and Mike from Meet the Animals
Animals are Rhonda and Mike's world. Between them, these two passionate, experienced Aussie zookeepers have clocked up over 40 years in zoos, wildlife parks, and conservation-plus they've run two animal education businesses, worked as truffle-dog handlers, army dog handlers, wrangled camels, mucked out stables, assisted in vet clinics, staffed pet shops, and volunteered as wildlife carers. From native and exotic birds and reptiles, to mammals, amphibians and invertebrates, they've worked with just about every kind of creature you can imagine. Together they run Meet the Animals, a professional interactive animal experience, in the south west of WA.
At this special interactive author event, Rhonda and Mike will discuss their careers working with animals, and Rhonda will uncover all the dirty details about her new book The Dirty Business of Being a Zookeeper. You will even get the chance to meet some of the animals Mike and Rhonda care for!
Please note: Because there will be live animals at this event, for health and safety reasons the library will not be providing refreshments.
About The Dirty Business of Being a Zookeeper
Being a zookeeper isn't always glamorous.
This book dishes the real dirt-straight from the horse's mouth. You'll get the highs and lows of zoo life: hand-raising adorable animals, forging bonds with dedicated keepers, and collaborating with other organisations... along with animal escapes, injuries, deaths, mental health struggles, a range of management, behind-the-scenes politics, and even a little zookeeper romance and drama.
Turns out, it's not always the animals that are the hard part.
The Dirty Business of Being a Zookeeper shows what it really means to care for animals in captivity-and why being a strong voice for their welfare can sometimes put you at odds with the system. You'll also learn what it takes to become a zookeeper, from the essential hands-on training to the daily grind that most people never see.
This book will be available for sale for $25 at the event, please note the author will be selling the book herself and therefore accepting cash only.
Additional information
Event starting time
Doors will open for this event at 6pm, with the talk beginning at 6:15pm. Due to the library's regular opening hours entry is not possible before 6pm, so please plan accordingly.
Age range
This event is aimed at adults, but children aged 15+ are welcome to attend if accompanied by an adult. Looking for an event for younger kids? Rhonda and Mike are also doing a Meet the Animals interactive experience at the library, click here to learn more.
Getting to the event:
Subiaco Library has limited parking bays available at the rear of the building including two accessible parking bays. For more information on getting around Subiaco visit the city’s website.
Access and inclusion:
Subiaco Library is wheelchair accessible . For additional information please contact Subiaco Library on 9237 9300.
Ticket information:
You are not required to bring a ticket with you. Names will be checked at the door. Please note that space is limited and registration is essential. Please only register if you will definitely be attending.
More information:
For more events and programs at Subiaco Library visit the City of Subiaco events calendar, follow the Subiaco Library on Facebook or join the Cultural Services e-newsletter database by emailing library@subiaco.wa.gov.au.