The countdown is on until Western Australia says its final farewell to Perth Zoo’s much-loved elephant, Permai, with her departure now just days away. 

Her keepers are busy preparing for the jumbo journey, putting final touches in place to keep her safe on the trek to Adelaide.

After years of meticulous planning, the mammoth undertaking is now just days away, with Permai scheduled to depart for South Australia’s Monarto Safari Park within the coming week.

Her custom travel crate has been equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, including air conditioning, temperature gauges, CCTV cameras, and an abundant supply of snacks and more than 1000 litres of water.

“Walking past there with no elephants will be strange but we know it’s the right thing to do, we keep coming back to the welfare, and it’s all about welfare,” John Lemon from Perth Zoo said.

Upon her arrival at Monarto Safari Park, Permai will be met by Burma, another elephant, with Perth’s Putra Mas joining the herd mid-next year, because elephants are happier in a herd.

Their new 14-hectare habitat boasts an array of features designed to cater to their needs, including four waterholes, a hay shed, and designated overnight rest areas.

While the departure of Permai marks the end of an era for Perth Zoo, which she has called home for 32 years, Lemon said it’s the right thing to do.

“Bittersweet, but we know it’s the best thing for her,” he said.