Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Western Port Ramsar Wetlands encompass over 70,000 hectares of intertidal mudflats, saltmarshes, mangroves, and seagrass beds along Western Port Bay on the southeastern coast of Victoria. Designated a Ramsar site in 1982, the area is globally significant for its biodiversity, particularly as a habitat for migratory shorebirds protected under international agreements such as JAMBA and CAMBA. The wetlands support large congregations of species including the critically endangered Australasian Bittern, Far Eastern Curlew, and the critically threatened Orange-bellied Parrot during seasonal migrations. The geography of this coastal embayment includes several islands, extensive tidal mudflats, and sheltered bays, providing vital breeding and feeding grounds for marine and bird life alike. Historically, the wetlands have been used by the Bunurong people, the traditional custodians of the land, and now are extensively managed to balance conservation with sustainable recreation and commercial fishing. Visitors to Western Port can enjoy birdwatching, guided eco-tours, and educational programs at various observation hides and reserve areas. While there are limited dedicated trails, the surrounding reserves offer walkways and viewing platforms to appreciate the dynamic wetland environment. Recreational boating and fishing are popular in designated areas, while photography enthusiasts can capture impressive landscapes, migratory birds, and marine wildlife. Straddling urban centers and remote natural areas, Western Port Ramsar Wetlands serve as a vital natural refuge and a valued outdoor destination for ecotourism and environmental education.
