A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO OUR BIG CAT HERO

Dalubuhle Mncube
Sadly taken from us 27th May 2009

Dalu your joy and vivaciousness for life was not only contagious but inspiring.  You lived LIFE daily, your laughter and smile filled a room.  The passion you felt for your big cats was mirrored in the love for your family and friends.

The loss is ours we will dearly and lovingly miss you and actively keep your memory alive.
 

On Wednesday 27th May we lost a very dear and loved member of our family. His smile was contagious, his enthusiasm infectious, his passion and love for the animals of Zion boundless. We remember him for his amazing way with people – his ability to reach out and touch you regardless of your race, age, religion or nationality. We remember him for the bond he formed with the animals of Zion, for his caring nature and his unshakeably positive outlook on life.

Dalu from Africa to Whangarei

Dalu Mncube was working for a lion park in South Africa when he was offered a position here at Zion Wildlife Gardens by Craig Busch. With no idea of where New Zealand was – let alone Whangarei – Dalu took a leap of faith in accepting the position. Mere months later, Dalu was taking his first steps on Kiwi soil, and almost four years later his place in our community was already firmly established.   Dalu quickly made friends both here in Whangarei and further afield – he was known as ‘Uncle Dalu’ to many people across the globe, and his great sense of humour and cheeky nature endeared him to all. Dalu also found true love here in Whangarei; his fiancée stole his heart and the couple’s young daughter was the twinkle in his eye.     

Dalu had an instant appeal – he was chatty, friendly, open and always positive. He had a great deal of respect for the big cats he worked with, never once forgetting the proud, wild heritage of the animals of Zion Wildlife Gardens. Many of the great cats of Zion were raised by Dalu – he was their father as much as he was their keeper and caregiver.

Dalu had that rare quality; a generosity of spirit that instantly put people at ease. Today, almost four years on from his arrival, Dalu leaves us no longer a stranger; but instead a much-loved friend, a respected colleague, and an ‘uncle’ to hundreds of people around the globe.

A special memorial is planned for Dalu at Zion Wildlife Gardens – a quiet, peaceful part of the park will be dedicated to Dalu for family, friends, staff and the hundreds of people that Dalu has touched to sit and spend time reflecting on what Dalu meant to them.  Dalu will forever be a part of Zion Wildlife Gardens.

The Dalu Mncube Family Trust has been established for people to express their respect and love in a way that will truly make a difference. Established in Dalu’s name, any donated monies will be held in an independent  trust administered by the Law firm Henderson Reeves in Whangarei for the sole benefit of Dalu’s children, giving them a solid foundation for their future.