It has been about one year since the Mogo Wildlife Park reopened after the bushfires, and a celebratory community day took place on Saturday, February 27.
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Before opening to the public, the wildlife park hosted a Local Leaders Breakfast.
The breakfast was a chance for business owners, emergency service volunteers and members of the community to get together to relax and reflect.
Micheal Lane of Malua Bay RFS said it was important for everyone who experienced the bushfires to get together socially.
"It's great to get together without an emergency situation - it's good for your mental health," he said.
A special video message was shared from NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian ahead of the event.
CEO of Australian Wildlife Parks Tony Chiefari was proud of how the community forged together throughout the fires, floods and pandemic. He hoped to work with the community to attract international visitors to the region.
Zookeeper and managing director of Mogo Wildlife Park, Chad Staples, said the day was a celebration to show appreciation of the ongoing community support.
"After experiencing two re-openings in 2020, we were thrilled to be able to connect with our local community to safely celebrate an important milestone for the park." Mr Staples said.
Australian Wildlife Parks took over ownership of Mogo Wildlife Park on November 29 2019. One month later, bushfires had swept through the Mogo township and threatened the park.
Mr Staples and wildlife park staff bravely fought the fires to protect the property.
All animals and staff survived and the park was only impacted by structural damage.
Mogo Wildlife Park was opened on Boxing Day in 1989 and had just celebrated its 30th anniversary prior to the fires.
