Altina Wildlife Park celebrates first rhino birth, honours late founder

Image: Altina Wildlife Park

In short:

• Altina Wildlife Park near Darlington Point welcomed a 65kg baby white rhino on January 7, named CK after late co-founder Gino Altin whose favourite animal was the rhino
• Mother Tatu rejected the calf after birth complications, requiring staff to hand-rear CK who now drinks 18-20 litres of specialised formula daily and has already grown to 93kg
• The birth marks Altina's first successful rhino breeding and an important contribution to the Australasian white rhino conservation programme, with supporters invited to help fund CK's care

A baby white rhinoceros born at Altina Wildlife Park near Darlington Point has been named in honour of the park's late co-founder, in a touching tribute that captures both conservation success and family legacy.

The 65-kilogram male calf, born on January 7, 2026, has been named CK, short for Clark Kent, after Gino Altin who co-founded the wildlife park with his wife Gloria.

For those familiar with Gino, the name carries special meaning. He was known for his quirky sense of humour and would often tell his family he was

Superman in disguise.

The birth represents Altina's first successful rhino breeding, marking a significant milestone for the Riverina facility and contributing to conservation efforts across Australasia. Mother Tatu was imported from Germany 10 years ago specifically for the breeding programme.

However, the arrival hasn't been without challenges. Tatu experienced complications during birth and subsequently rejected her calf, requiring staff to hand-rear the young rhino. CK is now thriving on a diet of 18 to 20 litres of specialised rhino replacement formula each day, and has already ballooned to 93 kilograms in just one month.

To help CK develop crucial social behaviours, staff have introduced him to an Asian water buffalo heifer as a paddock companion. The pair share similar play habits, wallowing in mud, chasing each other and play sparring. This carefully chosen friendship is designed to teach CK the herd behaviours he'll need when eventually reintroduced to a rhino herd.

White rhinos were once on the brink of extinction, with fewer than 100 individuals surviving in the wild by the late 19th century. Conservation efforts have since increased numbers, but the species remains under threat from poaching and habitat loss.

The Altin family, including Gloria and children Rebecca, Rick and Crystal who now manage the park, say Gino would have been immensely proud of this achievement. The rhinoceros was his favourite animal.

Altina Wildlife Park is seeking community support to help fund CK's ongoing care over the next 18 months as he continues to grow. Those interested in contributing to the southern white rhino programme can contact the park directly.