Calling all animal lovers - register now to attend The GAP workshop!

Published on 05 October 2016

Do you love animals? Are you interested in otters? Do you have a passion for horse training and dog obedience? Are you intrigued by apes and fascinated by lion cubs?

If you answered yes, then the Australasian Animal Training and Conditioning Workshop 2016 is for you!

In a few short weeks, Rockhampton Regional Council and the Rockhampton Zoo will be hosting some of the world’s leading experts in animal training for a three day workshop and the event is open to anyone with an interest in animals.

Rockhampton Region Acting Mayor Councillor Cherie Rutherford said The GAP (Giving Animals Purpose) Australasian Animal Training and Conditioning Workshop would be held from Sunday 23 October to Wednesday 26 October at the Leichhardt Hotel and aimed to bring together professionals from industries involved in training animals.

“Securing the hosting rights for this biennial workshop was a tremendous opportunity for both the Rockhampton Region and animal lovers alike,” Cr Rutherford said.

“Taronga Zoo hosted the workshop in 2014 and we are really excited that it is our turn to bring to our Region such a high calibre lineup of professionals from a diverse range of animal training industries to discuss current and emerging trends as well as best practice in the animal training and conditioning industry.

“Everything from training orangutans for release back into the wild to training dogs for vital conservation work or military service – this is your opportunity to meet the leading Australian and International experts in this field,” she said.

Are you horse crazy?

If you are simply mad about horses, make sure you book into the GAP Workshop and learn from master horseman and liberty training specialist, David Lichman who travels all over the world helping people achieve extraordinary results with horses.

One of Pat Parelli's top rated instructors, David has handled thousands of horses at hundreds of clinics, from every breed and discipline.

David’s mission is to help students realise their dreams of having a great relationship with their horses. David is a firm believer that your dream horse is waiting for you inside the horse you already own.

Other renowned speakers at the event include:

Dr Jenifer Zeligs (Professor and author of "Animal Training 101" – who will have copies of her book available for purchase and signing)
Steve Austin (Elite Dog Trainer)
Zelie Bullen (Film and Television Animal Trainer)

Event details

  • The GAP workshop is hosted by Rockhampton Zoo
  • 23 - 26 October 2016
  • Four internationally recognised Keynote Speakers
  • Open to all animal lovers, enthusiasts and professionals
  • $295 for standard registration

To register or for further information, email thegap@rrc.qld.gov.au or phone 1300 22 55 77. 

Registrations close this Sunday, 9 October 2016.