Bird Watching
The Western Treatment Plant is one of the most popular sites for bird watching in Victoria with 284 species of bird recorded at the site from all over the world. The plant’s lagoons, grasslands and coastline provide an ideal and varied habitat for birds with a permanent water supply, plenty of food, and little interference from humans.
You must apply for a permit to bird watch at the Western Treatment Plant. All visits must be registered and special permits obtained to access some areas.
The Western Treatment Plant’s birdlife is protected under Commonwealth and State legislation as well as a number of international bird protection agreements: the Japan--Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (JAMBA), the China--Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (CAMBA), and the Republic of Korea-- Australia Migratory Bird Agreement (ROKAMBA).
In 1982, the western shores of Port Phillip Bay, including the Bellarine Peninsula, were listed as a 'Wetland of International Importance' under the Ramsar Convention. This classification includes the Western Treatment Plant's Lake Borrie and its surrounding lagoons and coastal mudflats.
Learn more about bird species at the Western Treatment Plant