Today, conservationists around the world are celebrating the lasting legacy of the late Dr. Jane Goodall. 

Jane was pioneering primatologist who reshaped our understanding of wildlife and helped generations understand that small changes can make a big impact to the world.

Across her 60 years of work, her scientific studies within the animal kingdom and persistent advocacy has left a lasting legacy. And here at Perth Zoo, her impact runs deep.

From our animal care teams to education, community engagement and our communication officers, Jane inspired many of us to pursue our conservation careers with purpose and compassion.

Perth Zoo’s Primate Supervisor Holly Thompson penned a message about Jane’s impact on us here:
 
Jane Goodall dedicated her life to understanding and protecting the natural world, while never losing sight of the power of individuals to create change.

Jane once gave me a handwritten letter after one of her many visits to Perth Zoo.

In it, she thanked us for everything we do, caring for animals, protecting species, and contributing to conservation in ways that truly matter.

To have Jane recognise our collective dedication is something I will never forget.

Her words remind us why we do this work, giving us the encouragement to keep going, even when the challenges feel immense.

 Her legacy lives on in all of us who had the privilege of meeting her, learning from her, or simply being inspired by her life’s mission.


We owe it to Jane, to her hope, her courage, and her unwavering belief in what humans can achieve, to continue this work with the same compassion and determination she embodied every day.
 

Perth Zoo has also been a longstanding support of the Roots & Shoots Australia program. Founded by Jane Goodall, this program is a global movement of young change makers who work to improve the world around them.

On her last visit to Perth Zoo in 2024, a group  of local Roots & Shoots students were invited to present their conservation projects to her.

Here's what students had to say after meeting their hero!

We’re proud to stand among countless other zoos and organizations around the globe working everyday to carry Jane's legacy for the environment on. 
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As the Jane Goodall Institute puts it: It started with Jane. Now, it continues with you.

And just as Jane inspired our staff, we are now privileged to carry the responsibility of inspiring the next generation.