In a landmark moment for elephant welfare in Australia, Monarto Safari Park has welcomed 35-year-old bull Asian Elephant, Putra Mas, marking the final step in establishing the park’s founding elephant herd. The move signals a major milestone for elephant care in the region, following years of collaborative planning between Zoos SA and Perth Zoo.
Putra Mas’s arrival yesterday completes a careful, region-wide effort to provide a forever home for five elephants at Monarto Safari Park. The bull elephant made the 42-hour, 2,700-kilometre journey from Perth Zoo with dedicated veterinary care and experienced keepers by his side.
Dr Phil Ainsley, Chief Executive of Zoos SA, said the arrival is the culmination of vision, dedication, and overwhelming public support.
“This is a momentous day, not just for Zoos SA, but for elephant care in Australia,” said Dr Ainsley. “With the arrival of Putra Mas, we now have the full founding herd of Asian Elephants here at Monarto Safari Park – four cows and one magnificent bull – all with space, support and social opportunities for the rest of their lives.
“This journey began more than two years ago, and thanks to the incredible generosity of more than 4,700 South Australians who helped raise over $2.4 million, we were able to make it a reality.”
John Lemon, Director of Life Sciences at Perth Zoo, said farewell to Putra Mas was bittersweet. “He’s been part of our family for over three decades and holds a special place in our hearts,” said Mr Lemon.
“But we know this is the best move for his wellbeing. He travelled incredibly well, responded positively throughout the journey, and was even sleeping comfortably on his first night at Monarto Safari Park.”
Putra Mas, whose name means “golden prince,” was trained over the past six months to voluntarily enter his custom-built crate, a process that helped ensure a calm and safe relocation.
He is now settling into his new barn and adjoining yards under the care of Monarto Safari Park Manager of Elephants Andrew Coers and his team.
“What a spectacular bull he is,” said Mr Coers. “When he stepped out of the crate, he was relaxed, alert and straight into exploring his new space, as well as eating and drinking. By 6.30pm he was sound asleep on his fresh sand bed – that’s the kind of behaviour we hope for, but don’t always see this quickly.”
Perth Zoo elephant keepers will remain on site at Monarto Safari Park for several weeks to assist with the transition, sharing knowledge such as cues and care techniques to ensure continuity and comfort for Putra Mas. Over the coming weeks, the bull will gradually explore more of his new habitat and begin safe introductions to the resident cows – Burma, Permai, Pak Boon and Tang Mo – in line with his preferences and pace.
“Right now, it’s all about giving him time to rest, settle and get to know his surroundings,” said Mr Coers. “He’s already aware the girls are nearby – and they definitely know he’s arrived!”
The formation of Monarto Safari Park’s elephant herd is part of a broader regional strategy for Asian Elephants in zoological care. While some elephants are of breeding age, Zoos SA’s current focus is not on breeding but on building trust, companionship and a net-positive welfare environment for the herd.
“This is a project of a scale not undertaken before in Australasia,” said Dr Ainsley. “We’re building something truly special here – a unique journey that reflects our highest standards and values.”
Visitors may catch a glimpse of Putra Mas in coming weeks from the free Zu-loop bus, as he explores the outdoor yards on his own terms. The complete visitor precinct is expected to open to the public in 2026.
