New Zoodoo Zoo owner Stuart Webster outlines plans for $5 million upgrades at site

After taking over a much-loved zoo outside of Hobart, the new owner has wasted no time overhauling the facility. Find out what is planned.

Stuart Webster the new owner of Zoodoo Zoo near Richmond with the new miniature highland cows. Stuart plans to spend $5 million over the next five years redeveloping the zoo. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

The new owner of Zoodoo out at Tea Tree has revealed he plans to invest $5 million in upgrading the facility.

Stuart Webster has taken over the Tasmanian zoo after the previous owners put the business market last year with an asking price of $3,750,000.

One of Mr Webster’s big plans is to reinstate the safari bus at the site.

He says he is aiming for it to be operational again in 2026.

“I have visited over 500 zoos around the world, and Zoodoo Zoo’s connection to the surrounding environment is truly unique,” Mr Webster said.

“It is a beautiful zoo and a place where visitors can get up close to wildlife and learn about conservation and biodiversity in a way that is very authentic and tangible.

“Our unique 300-acre nature reserve behind the zoo is the natural habitat of wombats, wallabies, kangaroos and Tasmanian devils.

“We are committed to preserving and enhancing this habitat to allow these endemic species to thrive in their natural environment.”

Stuart Webster the new owner of Zoodoo Zoo near Richmond with the new miniature highland cows. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Construction has already begun on five new animal enclosures, with others at the zoo expected to be upgraded.

“The primary responsibility of a zoo is to provide an environment where animals have opportunities for positive experiences and are engaged and stimulated by their environment,” Mr Webster said.

“This is what we aspire to.

“We also want to create opportunities for a more immersive experience, for visitors to view and learn in the most engaging way, about the animals in our care.”

Mr Webster said further plans for the facility, including new animal habitats and play areas for children, would be unveiled in the coming weeks.

“The zoo is going to be a very busy place over the coming months, with lots of changes and surprises planned.

“I encourage everyone to visit Zoodoo Zoo during this period to be part of our transformation.

“We have an amazing, passionate team of experienced and knowledgeable staff and a unique collection of exotic animals, including lions, squirrel monkeys, meerkats, servals, and porcupines, along with many Australian native species, including Monty, our bachelor Koala.”

A pair of school holiday camps at the zoo will also occur over the next two weeks.

Originally published as New Zoodoo Zoo owner Stuart Webster outlines plans for $5 million upgrades at site