FREE Ramsar Week 2026 event

Discover the hidden under water world of Swan Bay! Join fish ecologists to learn about marine life and its role in Ramsar wetland health during Ramsar Week 2026.

The Port Phillip Bay (western shoreline) and Bellarine Peninsula Ramsar site is an extremely diverse system of wetlands – fringing urban centres, swamps and coast. Whilst we often admire the plants and birds reliant on this system, its underwater life is just as vital.

Learn about the important underwater habitat of Swan Bay and how it supports a wide range of native fish. Scientists from the University of Melbourne will explain how and why we monitor fish life and provide interactive (above-ground) activities to learn about the fishes.

Marine life play an important role in maintaining the health of this internationally significant wetland. Join us for an information session with video demonstrations and an under-the-microscope look at preserved fish specimens to learn how to identify and age a fish.

This is a rare chance to see science in action and discover the incredible diversity beneath the surface.

Note:

Please note - this is an above-water event that will involve demonstrations with preserved fish specimens.

If the weather becomes unfavourable or if Extreme or Catastrophic Fire Danger Ratings are declared, the event will be cancelled and participants will be notified as soon as possible.

What to bring:

Hat, sunscreen, drinking water, binoculars

Catering:

A lunch with vegan, vegetarian and gluten friendly options will be provided. For any specific dietaries or allergies please contact hannah.wiggs@ccma.vic.gov.au

This event is part of Ramsar Week 2026 - a week of FREE activities from 2 to 6 February celebrating the internationally recognised Ramsar wetlands in the Corangamite CMA region. Learn more at www.ccma.vic.gov.au/ramsar-week

Contact the host of Swan Bay underwater world (fish assemblages demonstration) with the University of Melbourne