A number of Chisholm Institute Building and Furniture apprentices recently witnessed the lions at Melbourne Zoo claw back a purpose-built platform they’ve spent the last few months building.

The apprentices worked closely with Melbourne Zoo’s Manager of Works Craig McQualter and Supervisor of Carnivores Jon Birkett to draft and build seven platforms for the Big Cats exhibits and three for the Lion Park. 

The platforms in both areas will provide additional shelter from the sun and rain and will serve as additional exhibit furniture for the animals, says Birkett.

“The project will provide extra climbing facilities for the lions and other big cats, and working on the project has given the students incredible experiences. Not only have they designed and built the platforms from our brief, they’ve been lucky enough to witness the animals during training sessions and at feeding times.”    

Chisholm Department Manager Rodger Carroll says the project is the result of an ongoing collaboration between Chisholm Institute and Melbourne Zoo, one which provides a number of Building and Furniture and Drafting students with incredible industry skills and life experiences.