WA fans devastated by death of beloved Tricia, one of the world’s oldest elephants

For decades, WA’s most cherished elephant, Tricia, has delighted crowds at Perth Zoo.

Now, it’s time for West Australians to say goodbye and thank you after the beloved matriarch died on Wednesday.

Watch Tricia’s 65th birthday celebrations in the video above

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At 65 years old, Tricia was believed to be one of the world’s oldest elephants in human care and the oldest in an Australasian zoo.

The beloved Asian elephant arrived in Perth from Vietnam in 1963 and for decades has brought smiles to the faces of onlookers as one of the city’s grand dames.

Tricia enjoys her 64th birthday cake at Perth Zoo on January 24, 2021. Credit: Paul Kane/Getty Images

Perth Zoo this week announced the devastating news that Tricia’s health was rapidly deteriorating, saying dedicated staff were caring for her in her final days.

Premier Mark McGowan shared a touching tribute to the beloved animal, thanking the workers who humanely cared for her.

“Her stature and her grace were compelling. For many, she was a Perth icon,” he said.

“For six decades, she was an integral part of any visit to Perth Zoo. If you lived in Perth at some point in your life then you probably have a memory of Tricia.”

Environment Minister Reece Whitby said it’s an “incredibly sad day” for WA.

“Tricia was an iconic and treasured piece of our state’s identity, and she touched the lives of many over her 65 years,” he said.

Heartbroken community members have been asked to not send flowers but instead help create a lasting legacy for Tricia.

Tricia was so well-loved she even had a ferry named in her honour.

Now, the Tricia Tribute Conservation Fund has been set up to support the conservation work of the zoo and build an elephant guard post in the Bukit Tigapuluh ecosystem in Tricia’s name.

The community will be able to pay its respects at a special memorial walk at Perth Zoo on Sunday.

Tricia the Asian elephant was an icon among the Perth community. Credit: SARAH MOTHERWELL/AAPIMAGE

Named after Miss Australia 1962, Tricia Reschke, the regal WA icon was well-known for her artistic abilities.

Tricia would put her trunk to work to create colourful canvases, the proceeds from which were donated to charity to help protect one of the last remaining herds of Sumatran elephants in the world within the Bukit Tigapuluh ecosystem.

She celebrated her 65th birthday in January with a magnificent party in front of eager zoo patrons.

“We know she will not live forever, so every day we have with her is a blessing,” Perth Zoo shared at the time, admitting the beautiful creature was well into her twilight years.

Tricia shared an enclosure with two younger companions, male elephant Putra Mas and female Permai who are now expected to be relocated to other zoos for their own wellbeing.