Bellarine community members have a better understanding of wetland values thanks to strong support during Ramsar Week.
More than 200 people engaged in guided experiences over five days at the Port Phillip Bay (Western Shoreline) and Bellarine Peninsula and Western District Lakes Ramsar sites.
Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CMA) biodiversity project officer and Ramsar Week event organiser Hannah Wiggs said Ramsar Week was about connecting people with their environments.
“The community’s enthusiasm to learn, participate and share knowledge plays a vital role in protecting wetlands of global importance for future generations,” she said.
“The range of events across the week highlighted the rarity and biodiversity of Ramsar wetlands and their role as critical habitat for migratory birds and threatened species.”
Ramsar Week is part of Corangamite CMA’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and wetland stewardship, while encouraging practical actions to support wetland health at a local scale.
The week-long program was held from 2 to 6 February across the Corangamite region’s two internationally recognised Ramsar sites and provided opportunities for people to learn about water science.
Activities included canoe tours of Barwon Estuary and Swan Bay, a cultural education session led by Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, wetland ecology talks and birdwatching.
The week also marked World Wetlands Day on 2 February with free and expert-led activities and tours designed to showcase the ecological significance of local wetlands.
Corangamite CMA thanked its partners for the successful week, including Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, Birdlife Australia, and Bellarine Catchment Network.
