What does it feel like to arrive just in time to witness an extinction?

In Episode 24 of A Stranger, A Suitcase, and A Story, Anton and Ben are joined by Dr Jenny Gray AM, Chief Executive Officer of Zoos Victoria, whose journey spans Johannesburg, Durban and Melbourne, and whose leadership has reshaped conservation in Australia.

Jenny grew up between Johannesburg and Durban, immersed in storytelling, public service and a deep familiarity with wildlife. Early in her career, she found herself leading Durban Transport during South Africa’s political transition, learning resilience, humility and stakeholder leadership under extraordinary pressure.

But it was a moment in 2009 that changed everything.

Jenny and her team arrived on Christmas Island to try to save the pipistrelle bat. They recorded what turned out to be the final individual of the species. Within days, it was gone. They had arrived in time to document an extinction. That moment became a line in the sand.

Zoos Victoria made a commitment that no Victorian terrestrial vertebrate species would go extinct on their watch. Today, they work with 27 critically endangered species. Sixteen years later, not one has been lost. From rediscovering the Victorian grassland earless dragon after 54 years, to breeding programs, reintroductions and engaging children in conservation, Jenny’s work is not about spectacle. It is about responsibility.

Her migration story is just as powerful. Head-hunted to lead Werribee Open Range Zoo, Jenny rebuilt her professional network from scratch. She learned to soften her directness. She sought coaching. She consciously travelled light, knowing that what you carry in your suitcase can either strengthen you or weigh you down.

Her advice to young people is clear:

Work hard. Take opportunities. Learn to lose. Build resilience. Do hard things. Because the glory is not on the easy road.

If you had to start again in a new country, what would you carry in your suitcase — and what would you be brave enough to leave behind?

🎧 Listen to Episode 24 at 3spod.com
Also available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

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