Hammons Holdings, a third-generation family-owned operator of attractions including Scenic World in the NSW Blue Mountains and Sydney’s BridgeClimb is a founding investor in Sydney Zoo that has now bought out the shares of the zoo’s founders, John and Jake Burgess, as well as those of other shareholders.
Under the proposed transaction, Hammons Holdings will take over operations of Sydney Zoo, with CEO David Hammon and head of strategic growth Amanda Byrne jointly overseeing Sydney Zoo’s integration into the group while a long-term CEO is appointed.
Hammon has served on the zoo’s board since inception.
Sydney Zoo chairman John Harvey says the board is unanimous in its support for the Hammons Holdings purchase.
“The board commends the Burgess family for their vision in creating a world-class zoo in the heart of western Sydney,” he says.
“Their leadership, particularly through the [Black Summer] bushfires of 2019-2020 and the COVID-19 pandemic, has laid a strong foundation for the zoo’s future.
“Sydney Zoo has rapidly established itself as a leading attraction in western Sydney, welcoming more than 4.5 million visitors since opening in late 2019 and receiving multiple industry awards, including gold at the NSW Tourism Awards for major attraction.
“We are confident the Hammons, with their deep expertise in experiential tourism and long-term commitment to western Sydney, are ideally placed to lead the zoo’s next chapter.”
Jake Burgess will step down as managing director of the zoo he founded with his father, John.
“We’re delighted to welcome Sydney Zoo into the Hammons Holdings family of attractions,” says Hammon.
“As a long-standing and multigeneration family business, Hammons Holdings is committed to creating world-class visitor experiences and meaningful connections with the communities we serve.
“With the opening of Western Sydney International Airport on the horizon, the timing is right to elevate Sydney Zoo’s national and international profile.
“We look forward to building on the Burgess family’s legacy to evolve and grow Sydney Zoo while staying true to what makes the attraction and visitor experience it delivers so special.”
The Sydney Zoo transaction is subject to completion of due diligence.
