During a routine tiger demonstration this afternoon, one of Australia Zoo's resident tigers became over excited during a regular play session and bit one of Australia Zoo's senior tiger handlers on the shoulder and neck area.
Director of Australia Zoo Wes Mannion spoke with the handler after the incident and said, "He is in a stable condition and has been airlifted to Brisbane".
The senior tiger handler involved in the incident is very experienced with big cats, including nine years of experience at Australia Zoo, raising the tiger since it arrived at Australia Zoo as a cub.
"Our priority is the wellbeing of the handler, who is a valued member of our Australia Zoo family," Wes said.
"At the time of the incident, our emergency response team were on the scene immediately. They acted professionally and calmly. My hat goes off to them."
Australia Zoo has rigorous safety procedures and is conducting a full investigation in conjunction with workplace health and safety authorities.
"Our full support is with the handler and family." Wes said.
