Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Westernport Bay Ramsar Site, located approximately 60 kilometers southeast of Melbourne, Victoria, covers an extensive area of coastal wetland, including intertidal mudflats, salt marshes, mangroves, and seagrass beds. The bay plays a crucial ecological role, supporting internationally important populations of migratory waders and waterbirds regulated under the Ramsar Convention. Its diverse habitats provide feeding and breeding grounds for over 11,000 waterbirds, including species such as the Eastern Curlew, Bar-tailed Godwit, and Chestnut Teal. In addition to birds, the bay supports marine biodiversity such as seahorses, fish species, and occasional visits by dolphins and whales. The Ramsar site overlaps with several nature reserves and marine parks, contributing to the protection of valuable habitats. Historically, the area has been utilized by Indigenous Australians for thousands of years, who maintain a strong cultural connection with the bay. The bay's natural beauty and rich wildlife attract birdwatchers, nature photographers, and eco-tourists. Recreational pursuits include birdwatching from designated observation points, guided tours, kayaking in protected areas, and fishing in sustainable zones. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection, invasive species management, and maintaining water quality against urban development pressures. Visitor appeal lies in the opportunity to observe rare and migratory birds in their natural environment amid peaceful coastal settings accessible from nearby townships such as Hastings and San Remo.
