Vienna House of the Sea has a new Director: Inauguration by Dive
During the handover ceremony, the outgoing Michael Mitic, along with his successor, dived into the shark tank on Wednesday to brush the sea turtle Puppi together. In addition, Hans Köppen takes over the separate role of economic managing director.
The two new bosses certainly did not skimp on praise for the 37-year-long career of the outgoing director Mitic in the house. "A so-called showman's business has been turned into a category A zoo," said Schreiner, who will take on the role of director from January 1st.
Vienna House of the Sea with Visitor Record 2023
Mitic leaves behind a well-running operation. Both in 2022 and 2023, the Aqua-Terra Zoo in the former Mariahilfer Flak Tower broke visitor records - last year the house recorded 931,833 guests. "Except for the Corona years, we had positive results every year, increases every year," summarized Köppen.
However, things have not always gone smoothly for the zoo, as Mitic recalled. In 2003, the House of the Sea was on the verge of closing - according to the former director, this was one of the worst moments of his career, alongside the Corona lockdowns. The continuous additions, such as the tropical house, have been instrumental in today's success.
Meanwhile, Schreiner announced his intention to expand the principles of "research, education, science, and the life of the animals" in the coming years. "We will also focus on protecting endangered species and creating new habitats," said the 30-year-old, who is also supposed to bring about a generational change. New attractions for guests are also planned: Specifically, there should be a new department with venomous snakes by March at the latest.
(APA/Red)
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