Fota Wildlife Park - Celebrating a success story

Famed for its outstanding record of breeding endangered species, Fota Wildlife Park on the eastern fringes of Cork Harbour celebrated its 30th birthday with a summer carnival yesterday.

And though “summer” is hardly the word for the weather the country is now enduring, Fota basked in the glow of what can only be described as a truly inspiring success story.

The brainchild of Dublin Zoo and UCC, it has been a huge bonus for the people of Cork and Munster over the past three decades. Not alone is it one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions, it is a classic example of a non-profit organisation that has been supported by the people for the people.

Everyone involved in Fota Wildlife Park: The people running it, the members of local fundraising committees, and the many families that love it — take a bow!