Meet the latest member of The Project team: a 2-year-old, life-sized, fibreglass, woollen-coated elephant named Mali!

Mali is The Project’s contribution to the 150th anniversary of Melbourne Zoo, which celebrates its 150th anniversary this year.

Among other celebrations, they’re inviting Victorians to look out for Mali in the City, a unique art installation project (ooh, how very Melbourne), starring the Zoo’s adorable baby Asian elephant, Mali.

The Zoo runs a breeding program for Asian elephants, and two years ago, Mali was the first baby elephant to be born as part of this program.

As part of the birthday celebrations, 50 fibreglass models of Mali will appear all over Melbourne.

Each model has been transformed by an artist, using a variety of techniques including painting, welding, decoupage, knitting and even gravelling.

The Project and Network Ten commissioned author and illustrator Mini Goss to knit our Mali a woollen, pachydermy coat. Mini has knitted a snug – and anatomically impressive – outfit for Mali, using 13 kilometres of grey yarn!

Our Mali will be positioned in Federation Square from August 10 to September 21, before returning to the Zoo for a final parade on September 22. The entire herd then goes to auction on October 25, with proceeds going towards the Zoo’s conservation efforts.

Click here for more info on Mali in the City – the program, the star, and the app that gives you all the information about where you can spot all 50 Malis!

Photos courtesy of Mini Goss. We thank Mini for her amazing work!

UPDATE! Vote for Mali as your favourite elephant (which she is, right?) and you stand a chance to wn a trip to Thailand! Note, you'll have to sign up to the Herald Sun's conditions and stuff. Vote now!

After a pedicure

Mali on the move

Mali gets arty, with dog