KZ: How would you explain your role at Wild Action Zoo? 

C: I am director and owner of Wild Action Zoo. I live on site with my family. It’s a huge 24/7 responsibility. I never stop. There is always a ‘bump’ in the night, a storm, a baby animal which needs feeding. I am responsible for managing and breeding our facility’s critically endangered mountain pygmy possums. It’s a massive honour! We don’t go home at 5pm, we keep working!

KZ: Can you share an interesting behind the scenes fact about your job?

C: I am the chief koala leaf picker in my zoo team. I go out every day in my bush-clothes, and collect loads of yummy gum leaves for my koala family. I have been doing this for 16 years. A lot of my day is spent up a tree, and smelling gum leaves… and then having the satisfaction that my koalas enjoy their tea.

KZ: What would K-Zoners be surprised to learn about you?

C: I once spent six hours sitting in a tree to avoid being attacked by a territorial cassowary in FNQ. It was scary stuff… but also the best day of my life. I love keeping super fit, I run every day, and I am obsessed with kayaking.

KZ: How many animals are at Wild Action Zoo?

C: We care for over 2000 creatures, great and small. Many are endangered, including the Mountain pygmy possum, Australian dingo, brush tailed bettong, Southern cassowary, masked owl, squirrel glider, long nosed potoroo and grey headed flying fox. We currently house one of the largest populations of mountain pygmy possums in the world!

KZ: What advice would you give to K-Zoners who want to work in a similar role?

C: Don’t ever listen to people that say, 'You won’t be able to do that.' Be passionate and giving with your time. People will always open doors and help you. Read books! Try to experience as many opportunities as possible. Volunteer your time! Remember, sometimes learning and experiencing something is reward enough.

Read more of our interview with Chris Humfrey in the August issue of K-Zone, on sale now!