A celebration of Ramsar sites

Karaaf Wetlands

Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CCMA) will celebrate Ramsar Week 2024 as a way of spreading awareness regarding the ecological significance of Ramsar Wetland sites.

Ramsar Week, from February 12 to 16, will feature 10 activities such

as wetland bird ID walks set against the scenic backdrop of Lake Martin and Avalon Saltworks, canoe tours of Swan Bay, Corangamite water skink surveying, an orange-bellied parrot information session.

“We are thrilled to offer this event and provide individuals with an opportunity to upskill and gain valuable knowledge and tools to contribute to the preservation of these ecologically significant wetlands,” CCMA project officer biodiversity Rachael Beecham said.

“Ramsar Week is a testament to the commitment to environmental stewardship, inviting people to connect with the richness of the plants and diverse wildlife thriving in their local landscapes.”

The week-long initiative fosters community involvement, enabling individuals to enhance their understanding of these crucial wetlands through hands-on activities.

The Corangamite CMA covers 13,340 square kilometres of south-western Victoria; two Ramsar-listed wetland systems are within the region. The Port Phillip Bay (Western Shoreline) and Bellarine Peninsula site covers approximately 22,694 hectares and the Western District Lakes site covers approximately 32,898 hectares around Camperdown.

This project is supported by CCMA through funding from the state government, which is part of a $248 million investment to improve the health of waterways and catchments across Victoria.

For more information and to register your attendance, visit ccma.vic.gov.au/events