After more than 20 years leading Monarto Safari Park, director Peter Clark has stepped down, marking the end of a career spanning more than five decades in wildlife conservation.
Clark finished in the role in February, having helped guide the open-range zoo through a period of major growth and transformation. During his tenure, the park strengthened its role as both a conservation hub and a key tourism attraction for the Murraylands.
His career extends far beyond South Australia, with work across Australia and Papua New Guinea and collaboration with conservationists around the world.
In a message shared online, Clark reflected on the people he worked alongside throughout his career.
“I am retiring after over 50 plus years working with wildlife in both Papua New Guinea and Australia,” he said.
“From staff and volunteers at Zoos SA, to colleagues from all over Australia, New Zealand and the rest of the world – what a fantastic collection of like-minded conservationists that I have been fortunate enough to both work with and also to draw on.”
He also acknowledged the role of partners and supporters in achieving long-term conservation outcomes.
“We have had some great partners and supporters during this time, without whom we could never have gotten as far as we have.”
Clark thanked those he worked with and wished them well in continuing efforts to protect animals and their habitats.
Dr Ian Smith, a veterinarian who joined Zoos South Australia in 2013, is now acting director at Monarto Safari Park.
Hear Peter Clark reflecting on his career with ARN’s Adam & Jennie via Soundcloud.
