For Keeps: A Window Into the Fascinating World of Zookeeping

For Keeps takes us into the world of Melbourne zookeeper Noel Harcourt and all the unique and often unpredictable personalities - both human and non-human - he encountered over the decades of his career. Noel gives us privileged access to behind-the-scenes glimpses into the fascinating world of zookeeping and the bonds he and his fellow zookeepers formed with all his cherished animals - often challenging, frequently funny, always engaging. This heartfelt and beautiful story takes us on Noel’s journey filled with a love for the people and animals that make modern zoos such special places.

Worked at Melbourne Zoo over 33years prior to working at a wildlife park where I worked with Tigers, Lions & Reptiles & native fauna. Have worked with a huge variety of exotic Animals at Melbourne Zoo from Reptiles to a large Animal collection within the Zoos Animal education department to the Marine Mammal department where l worked with Australian Fur Seals where I was involved with their training & had numerous swimming sessions with them. Worked on the Carnivore department with Jaguars, Lions, Cheetahs & Snow Leopards .I also worked with a range of other Carnivores such as Otters, Red Pandas, Meerkats & exotic small Cats, just to name a few. I worked with Primates such as Gorillas, Orangutans, Baboons etc. I was involved in the planning of a number of new enclosures, l was sent overseas to North America on a fact finding tour of Zoos & Aquariums. I left Melbourne Zoo in 2016 & now at 72 years of age I now spend time travelling & Persuading my passion for gardening & painting in my Eltham art studio where l have painted many of the Animal Species l have worked with & surround myself with images & many other items that remind me of my amazing career at Melbourne Zoo.