Edithvale and Seaford Wetlands
The Edithvale and Seaford Wetlands are a remnant of the once extensive Carrum Carrum Wetland that covered about 10,000 acres, stretching from Mordialloc in the north to Frankston in the south. The area is part of the geomorphological feature known as the Carrum Lowlands or Sunklands. At the time of European settlement, these freshwater and brackish wetlands were reported to support a diverse and abundant flora and fauna, including Brolga and Magpie Goose, both of which are now locally extinct.
Drainage of the Carrum Carrum Wetlands commenced last century. Drainage was largely successful, enabling colonisation and farming. Some major floods exceeded the capabilities of this basic drainage system, resulting in extensive losses. Subsequent works programs augmented the drainage and flood mitigation assets, and today the area is heavily protected, enabling substantial urbanisation to occur with at least one-in-100-year flood protection.
The Edithvale and Seaford Wetlands have diverse habitats with both fresh and brackish elements. They are of significance as a remnant of the formerly extensive wetland type for the abundance of birds they support, particularly the migratory species, and as a demonstration and research site to show how disturbed systems can retain significance through careful management.
The remnant wetland areas are the largest remaining natural wetlands of their type in the Port Phillip and Westernport basins.
The Edithvale and Seaford Wetlands have been registered by the Ramsar Convention as a wetland of international importance. A management plan has been prepared and priority actions are being implemented.
The registration demonstrates that Melbourne Water can minimise the environmental impact of stormwater run-off and manage the risks to environmentally high value fauna and flora communities within its assets. The process has also demonstrated that Melbourne Water involves stakeholders and the community in its activities and projects.
The wetlands at Seaford and Edithvale are owned and managed by Melbourne Water, while the surrounding lands are owned and managed by the City of Frankston and the City of Kingston.
Key points
Wetland Type
- Remnant of former wetland type in area
- Freshwater meadow wetland
- Carrum Carrum Swamp Drain and Eel Race Drain waterways run through these sites
Site Size
- 101.2 hectares (Edithvale north and south)
- 111.2 hectares (Seaford)
Environmental Significance
- International - Ramsar Convention
- National
- State
Fauna
- Over 190 bird species recorded
- 25 international migratory birds
- Resident population of Eastern Grey kangaroos
Flora
- State flora values
- Seasonal and perennial wetlands
- Eight sub-communities and four terrestrial communities recognised.
Community Involvement
A Community Liaison Committee plays a vital role in the planning and management of the Edithvale and Seaford Wetlands. The committee was established in 2004 and includes representatives from a broad cross-section of environment, business and community organisations and local residents, and includes the Friends of Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands and local government representatives from the City of Kingston and the City of Frankston.
The Friends of the Edithvale and Seaford Wetlands are an actively involved community group that helps Melbourne Water manage the wetlands. A major focus of the group is the bird hide at the wetlands.
Melbourne Water Wetlands Discovery Centre
A concept plan for environmental education at the Edithvale and Seaford Wetlands, including the recommended site for a wetlands discovery centre at Edithvale, was developed in 2005, in consultation with the Friends of Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands, the community liaison committee, the traditional owners, the Boonerwrung / Bunurong communities, and schools.
The master plan includes the construction of a $3 million Melbourne Water Wetlands Discovery Centre with engaging educational exhibits and office space, complemented by an interpretive wetlands trail including viewing platforms.
The new Discovery Centre will provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the history of the wetlands from pre-settlement to today and learn about the major habitat, cultural and environmental values of the Edithvale and Seaford Wetlands. It will tell a fascinating tale of natural and built wetlands and the role they play in protecting our creeks and bays from stormwater pollution and the importance of protecting and preserving these important remnant ecosystems.
A cultural heritage assessment of the site and obtaining necessary approvals, including Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Act approval, will precede construction which is expected to commence in 2006.
Further information
If you would like further information on any other aspect of Melbourne Water's role in managing our water resources, please contact us on 131 722.
Downloads
- Edithvale and Seaford Wetlands (PDF, 131kb)