BULLDOGS GET UP CLOSE WITH WILDLIFE

News Source: Sunshine Coast Daily, page 13, Saturday 10th July, 2004

Australia Zoo visit capped off Coast stay before clash with the Brisbane Lions.

The Western Bulldogs are looking forward to sinking their teeth into the Brisbane Lions tomorrow but may need to remember a few tips from Australia Zoo’s wildlife when it comes to defending their territory.

The players visited the Zoo as part of their preparation for the match at the Gabba in Brisbane. They got up close and personal to the koalas, pythons, dingoes, wombats and other wildlife at the animal parade. They also took a look at the Croc Hunter’s new Crocoseum and spent time with the big cats – the Zoo’s six Bengal and Sumatran tigers.

Rohan Smith will play his 250 th game tomorrow and was the first to hold Brutus, an American Alligator. He was in awe of Brutus’ soft and smooth belly but wasn’t keen on getting too close to the friendly little critter’s snappy teeth. It was his first visit to the Zoo and he loved it: “To get in such close contact with the animals is pretty impressive,” Rohan said. While he’s looking forward to the clash with the Lions he said it made it a bit harder playing Brisbane at their home ground. “The guys are confident and hopefully they’ll play really well.”

Meanwhile, Adam Morgan allowed the Zoo’s animals handlers to place a Burmese python around his neck but couldn’t find a thing in common with his upcoming opponents maybe he was just stuck for words as it slithered around his neck.

The Western Bulldogs team was based in Caloundra for three days before their big game. They’ll be hoping some of the Croc Hunter’s enthusiasm rubs off as they try to move from the second bottom rung of the premiership ladder they share with Richmond.