Happy Birthday, Zarafa

Three years ago, on Mother’s Day of all days, a giraffe calf was born at Australia Zoo. Her mum is Sally. Her dad is Forest, a Guinness World Record holder and the tallest living giraffe in the world at 5.7 metres. And her name? Well, that’s where our story begins.

How a Name Became a Connection

In May 2023, our Founder and Managing Director, Kenton Campbell, took part in the Steve Irwin Gala Dinner, a night that raises funds for Wildlife Warriors and celebrates the extraordinary conservation legacy of Steve Irwin.

At the grand auction, Kenton had the opportunity to name a giraffe calf who had just been born at Australia Zoo. He didn’t hesitate 

“Giraffes have had a special meaning to our team and customers for over 25 years, and now we are able to play a part in the journey of a living legacy.” — Kenton Campbell

The name he chose was Zarafa, an Arabic word meaning “lovely one”, “charming”, and fittingly, “giraffe” itself. A name that felt like it had always been hers.

Standing Tall for a Reason

Zarafa is a daily favourite at Australia Zoo’s giraffe feed; she charms every guest with her gentle nature and playful personality. Three years in and she’s becoming a delightful mix of sweet and cheeky, winning hearts every single day. But beyond the playful moments and long lashes, Zarafa represents something much bigger; she’s an ambassador for a species that needs our attention.

Giraffes are currently classified as vulnerable to extinction, threatened by habitat destruction, fragmentation and poaching. Australia Zoo’s giraffe herd is part of an active endangered species breeding program, one that Zarafa has already contributed to in a meaningful way just by being born into it.

She roams the African savannah at Australia Zoo alongside rhinos and zebras, and if you’re lucky enough to catch her at the daily giraffe feed, you’ll understand exactly why she’s a favourite. When people connect with wildlife like Zarafa, it sparks something powerful: a desire to protect. That’s always been the point and what conservation is all about.

More Than a Name

The giraffe has been part of Zarraffa’s identity since the very beginning. It’s on our cups, our logo, woven into everything we do. So when the opportunity came to connect that symbol to something real, to an actual living giraffe, growing up in Queensland, part of a conservation program that matters, it felt like more than a coincidence.

Through our collaboration with Wildlife Warriors, we’re committed to supporting the work that protects wildlife and the ecosystems they depend on. Zarafa is a living, breathing reminder of why that work is worth doing.

Three years on, she’s not a calf anymore. She’s tall, curious and thriving. And every cup of Zarraffa’s Coffee is a small connection to that story.

Come Say Happy Birthday

If you’re heading to Australia Zoo this month, swing by the African savannah and wish Zarafa a happy third birthday in person. We’d love to see your visit on socials – tag us @zarraffascoffee. 

And if you can’t make it to the zoo, the best way to celebrate is with a coffee in hand, knowing that every cup you drink is part of something a little bigger than your morning routine.🦒☕

To find out more about Australia Zoo, go to: www.australiazoo.com.au  

For more information about Wildlife Warriors, visit: www.wildlifewarriors.org