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10 JUNE, 2026
Bubble trouble at the zoo Lioness Kianga was fascinated by the bubbles. (Zoos Victoria)
Ever wondered what happens when lion cubs and gorillas see bubbles for the first time? Werribee Open Range Zoo keepers decided to find out. A bubble party erupted across the animals’ habitats as keepers treated the lions and gorillas to some fun new enrichment, with very different re actions from each species. Two-year-old lioness Kianga was immediately fascinated by the bubbles, watching them and trying to figure them out. The young lion cubs, Kwame and Sukari, were more reserved and spent time watching the others. The zoo’s western lowland gorilla troop - silverback Motaba and his sons Yakini and Ganyeka - couldn’t have cared less about the bubbles, preferring to chase each other and beat their chests while enjoying snacks. Enrichment activities are an important part of animal care at Werribee Open Range Zoo, encouraging animals to investigate new sights, smells and experiences. African lions are listed as Vulnerable, with as few as 23,000 remaining in the wild. Werribee Open Range Zoo is part of a regional breeding and conservation program helping secure the future of the species.
Legacy on target Werribee clay target shooting champion Lynne Curtis has been posthumously awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his contribution to the sport. Born in 1950, Mr Curtis began clay target shooting in the 1970s and remained actively involved for more than 50 years as both a competitor and volunteer. He held leadership roles at the club, state and national levels, including serving as president of the Victorian Clay Target Association, vice president of the Australian Clay Target Association (ACTA) and tournament director of the ACTA national championships. Among his achievements were being a
five-time Australian national champion in the sport, winning eight state titles and representing Victoria 10 times. He also won two Commonwealth titles and numerous national and international championships across Australia and New Zealand. One of his most notable feats was winning the Australian Champion of Champions title in 2015, becoming the oldest competitor to win a national title in Australia. Unsurprisingly, he is a member of the Victorian and Australian Clay Target Association Halls of Fame. Daughter Michelle Curtis described
her father as a humble man whose most important contribution to the sport was his volunteerism. “Dad passed away in 2024, so while it is bittersweet that he is not here to receive it himself, we are incredibly proud that his lifetime of dedication and service has been recognised,” Ms Curtis said. “We know he would have been deeply honoured and humbled by the award, and it is wonderful to see the impact he had on so many people acknowledged in this way. “Dad was humble, generous and deeply committed to helping others. He never sought recognition or accolades and was happiest when he was giving back to the
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sport and community he loved. “While he achieved tremendous success as a competitor, his greatest contribution was his service to the sport.” Ms Curtis said he was warmly respected away from the sport. “He was respected not only for his achievements but for his integrity, kindness and willingness to support people at every level of the sport. “Th is honour means a great deal to our family.” More King’s Birthday honours:
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