Shannon’s Ambulance Wish was to have a Lions 360 experience at Monarto Safari Park with her family and friends
On 10th of September 2026, Shannon’s Ambulance Wish was fulfilled when she enjoyed a Lions 360 experience at Monarto Safari Park, surrounded by her family and friends. Ambulance Wish South Australia, in partnership with Southern Adelaide Palliative Service, made a special wish come true, creating memories that will last forever for Shannon and her loved ones.
With her favourite Pearl Jam songs playing, Shannon travelled to Monarto Safari Park in the Wish Ambulance to see the big cats she had always loved. She loved their “exotic and crazy” nature, while domestic cats were simply “boring”! The lions’ deep rumbles and low roars made the encounter especially memorable. Her friend Laurie described the sound as calming, while Kat loved watching Shannon “in her element” with family and friends.
Another magical moment came when a big male rhino called Umfana approached the fence. Shannon’s face filled with joy and awe. Her daughter recalled, “It was amazing how we opened the doors to the ambulance and the rhino was just there.”
The day ended with Shannon enjoying chips and a chocolate shake with her loved ones. Shannon’s daughter summed it up,” Everyone’s having a great time. Best day ever!”
Support this incredible program and help make wishes like Shannon’s possible by donating, becoming a Friend of Ambulance Wish SA, fundraising, Donating a Wish, or becoming a corporate partner: https://ambulancewishsa.org.au/donate/
It takes a Village to fulfill an Ambulance Wish. A Big Thank You to:
- Ambulance Wish Team: Tamika, Mel, Karen, Donna, Brad, Rebecca, Corey, Shyla, Birgit and Pete (your wish bear)
- Palliative Care Service Partner: Southern Adelaide Palliative Service
- Wish Site Partner: Monarto Safari Park
- Photographer: Tony Lewis (partially donated services)
- Memory Book Printer: John’s Print (partially donated services)
- AWSA Lead Organisation: Palliative Care South Australia
- AWSA Collaborative Partners: St John Ambulance | SA and Flinders University
- AWSA Program Supporter: SA Government, SA Health and The Honourable Blair Boyer MP
Our program is proudly supported by community donations, corporate sponsors and the SA Government (SA Health).
