New chapter for our wetlands

Published on 07 October 2026

We recently celebrated an important milestone for the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre, with the official opening of the first stage of works.

This is a project with massive potential for our whole community, not only for those of us in the western part of Hobsons Bay, but for the whole municipality and as a destination for those visiting Hobsons Bay.

The centre will give our community a new place to connect with nature, learn about our environment and enjoy the incredible natural assets right on our doorstep.

The stage one works are already giving us a glimpse at what the finished project will look like. Sculpted landscape areas, native planting, walking trails, elevated boardwalks and seating have created a more accessible way for our community to experience this special and unique asset we have in our city.

I had the privilege of being at the recent official opening of stage one works, and it was a thrill not only to see the incredible work that has been done, but to see the positive reaction from community members, and hear about what the site means to them.

The environmental significance of both our wetlands and the project can't be overstated.

Our wetlands play an important part in supporting native wildlife and migratory birds and supporting biodiversity.

The centre will provide opportunities to learn about the significant impact of the wetlands, encouraging environmental education, research, volunteering and community participation.

While completion of stage one is something to celebrate, there is still more work to do.

Council has committed $5 million towards the next stage of the project, highlighting our commitment to this area. But we will need further assistance to make future stages viable, and so are advocating for a further $5 million in government funding.

Stage two would deliver the fully operational Wetlands Centre, including a demonstration wetlands system, community and education facilities, infrastructure for school programs, research and volunteering, and improved access for visitors.

I am proud to support this advocacy and to see Council continuing to demonstrate its commitment to the project.

The Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre is about more than creating a new destination. It is an investment in our environment and our community.

I look forward to continuing to advocate for the next stage and, ultimately, seeing the full vision for this remarkable place become a reality.