During Gary’s tenure he delivered major projects including Slimbridge 2020 which resulted in Mission Possible, Arctic Aventure and the opening of the Scott House Museum. He was also instrumental in the development of the Estuary Hide, Waterscapes Aviary and the Living Wetland Theatre.
Over the years, he has led on events such as Mystical Marsh Lantern Trail, Wetland Codebreakers, the Southwest Puddle Jumping Championships, the Dusty Duck Celebrity Aardman Trail, Wetland Explorers, Dragonfly Festival and, new for this year, Wetland Wonderland.
These events have helped to transform the visitor experience at Slimbridge and have brought thousands of people through our doors.
A passionate champion of inclusion and accessibility—he introduced Pride in Nature, supported the development of SEND days, championed accessible exhibits, paths and hides, and was instrumental in the installation of our Changing Places toilet.
All of this has helped to increase visitor numbers and secure Slimbridge as a viable and sustainable centre for the future.
‘I will miss many things about Slimbridge. The people, the wildlife, the events and the constant buzz of the centre. I will particularly miss the view from my office overlooking Swan Lake, and the sign outside my window that says 'Wetlands are amazing' as they truly are. But so are the people who care for them, and I leave knowing that WWT Slimbridge is in very good hands.’ – Gary Haseley-Nejrup
We would all like to thank Gary for his contribution to making WWT Slimbridge the place it is today and wish him good luck for his future adventures!
