FREE Ramsar Week 2026 event

The Western Treatment Plant is not only a sewerage treatment facility, but also part of the Port Phillip Bay (western shoreline) and Bellarine Peninsula Ramsar site.

The landscapes of the Western Treatment Plant provide important habitat for wildlife like the Growling Grass Frog, Orange-bellied Parrot and a variety of waterbirds. It provides vital habitat for shorebirds that migrate all the way from Siberia and Alaska.

Join Melbourne Water on a guided tour to explore how they are implementing a range of adaptive environmental management techniques to support and improve biodiversity - including recycled water utilisation, Cultural burning, species monitoring and pest species management. Gain insight into the fascinating history and operation of Melbourne’s largest sewage treatment facility while uncovering the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this extraordinary landscape.

Note: This event will be physical and requires walking on uneven ground. Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes or gumboots.

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:

All participants MUST wear:

Long sleeved shirt
Long pants
Sturdy closed toe shoes

NOTE: This dress code is a requirement of the tour operator. You will not be able to participate in the tour if not dressed appropriately.

Please also bring:

Binoculars
Hat
Drinking water
Sunscreen

Catering:

Lunch with vegan and gluten friendly options will be provided after the tour. 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 Western Treatment Plant ecological tour with Melbourne Water