Embury became Melbourne Zoo’s records officer in 1984. Since then, she has worked with learning experience, projects and life sciences teams across Zoos Victoria’s four zoos, and with corporate business units. Embury’s training in zoology and interpretation was applied to the design of animal housing and visitor experience for Melbourne Zoo’s Gorilla Rainforest, Trail of the Elephants and Orangutan Sanctuary.
Additionally, Embury is active in the zoo’s regional species management programmes as a species coordinator and a member of the animal management committee. She has a deep understanding of zoo operations. She has developed a species assessment tool, written policies, organised peanuts and other food for quarantined elephants,and delivered training programmes for zoo staff. Embury has a BSc degree in zoology.
One person who nominated her said she has been “monumental in evolving the way Zoos Victoria supports animals in its care, developing and championing strategic organisational policies and frameworks that uphold contemporary science and best practice.
“Her care and focus to drive holistic outcomes and improve cultural understanding of animal welfare and wellbeing extends beyond Zoos Victoria. She has been an active pillar in our regional species management programs, being a species coordinator and a member of the Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia’s animal management committee,” they added.
“Amanda is known for her continuous improvement philosophy, evidence-based approach, and diplomacy in challenging the status quo, whilst uniting stakeholders for progressive animal care and advocating for thriving animal welfare within zoos.”
Zoos Victoria became the first zoo group in the world to become carbon neutral in 2013. Its four zoos are Healesville Sanctuary, Kyabram Fauna Park, Melbourne Zoo and Werribee Open Range Zoo. Each of these provides a unique and immersive experience that attracts visitors from around the world.