Lennon Bros Circus has confirmed its three lions will be retired.
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Their performances at Port Macquarie, which attracted a silent protest, was their finale to the performing ring.
Jan Lennon confirmed the news adding they were now resettled into a "beautiful retirement home".
"These lions won't work any more. They have finished up," she said.
"There will be three of them - Kiara, Kovu and Maizie. They are each about 15 years of age.
"This is a bit sad for us. These three were raised by us as were their respective parents.
"There were a number of factors involved in the decision, including the illness of their trainer."
She said the lions would not be replaced.
Following the end of the Port Macquarie performances, the three lions were relocated to the Zambi Wildlife Resort, a resort for retired animals.
"That facility is a beautiful retirement home in Sydney. It is not open to the public," Mrs Lennon said.
It is expected the lions will be replaced by human acts.
The news was welcomed by Shanae Kristy Lyons who led a series of silent protests during the circuses visit to Port Macquarie.
“The lions are free,” she said. “I am absolutely overwhelmed by the news. I am so happy.
“This is all we have wanted. We tried so hard (to raise awareness) and this is the best outcome.
“It is sad that the remainder of the animals cannot be retired too,” she said.
Shanae said she hoped the lions were going to be happy, well fed and looked after in their retirement.
“There has been many people before us to protest over the years,” she added.
“And thanks to Lennon Bros for listening to us, as well.”
Sister circus Stardust Circus will continue with performing lions as part of their act.
Lennon Bros Circus is the oldest touring circus in Australia.
It started with a buck jump show 125 years ago and soon evolved into the sophisticated circus production witnessed today.
The circus is currently run by 5th generation brothers Geoff and Warren with 5th and 6th generations of the family represented in the program.
According to its website, Zambi Wildlife Retreat is Australia's first and only animal welfare establishment that can rescue, rehabilitate, re-home and offer shelter to a wide range of species
While our focus will be on exotic animals needing retirement from zoo breeding programs, circus and private ownership, we will also provide care and shelter to domestics, farm animals and native wildlife.
Managed by highly qualified staff and volunteers, Zambi Wildlife Retreat ensures the health, safety and dignity to all animals in our care.
The retreat is not permitted by law, at this stage, for the public to visit the facility.
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