Hinkler Hall of Aviation and Alexandra Park Zoo were on the must-visit list for many people in 2019, with thousands making the most of what’s on offer.
Council tourism spokesperson Cr Greg Barnes said 17,308 people attended the Hinkler Hall of Aviation at the Botanic Gardens last year to delve into the history of Bert Hinkler.
“That’s an increase of 350 visitors in comparison to 2018 which is absolutely fantastic to see,” he said.
“School holiday activities proved popular, with April experiencing a large crowd for the great scavenger hunt in the Botanic Gardens and many participants taking advantage of discounted entry into HHA.”
Cr Barnes said last year’s Veteran Vehicle Rally in September was another popular event that tied in celebrations with the Hinkler Hall.
“Presentations were held at HHA by the Vintage Vehicle Club and there was also a wonderful picnic event in the garden which saw hundreds enjoying historic fashion and old cars for the National Veteran Vehicle Rally event,” he said.
Alexandra Park Zoo
Last year was also a big one for Alexandra Park Zoo, according to environmental spokesman Cr Wayne Honor, who said visitor numbers soared to well over 129,000 people.
“This equates to a four per cent increase on the 2018 figures,” Cr Honor said.
“We are very lucky to have a wonderful zoo, with amazing and caring staff, who provide a great home to these animals that the community can visit for free.”
Cr Honor said the busiest periods at Alexandra Park Zoo were the school holidays, with visitors from near and far experiencing all of the animal fun.
“The Easter school holidays was busy again in 2019 with more than double the visitors from 2018,” he said.
Alexandra Park Zoo’s new quoll has officially been named Crunchy 
Alby the white-throated snapping turtle is the newest addition to Alexandra Park Zoo.
“We find NSW tourists are usually holidaying the region at this slightly cooler time of year, and, with the presence of Old MacDonald’s Farm in Alexandra Park, the zoo provides a great area for holiday-makers to enjoy.”
Cr Honor said the arrival of two new animals were a highlight to the zoo calendar in 2019.
“We acquired Crunchy the spot-tailed quoll in April as well as Alby the white-throated snapping turtle in August, both of which have been popular attractions,” he said.
