Melbourne Water unveils first-ever Water WonderFest at Western Treatment Plant
Melbourne Water will host the inaugural Water WonderFest on Sunday 9 November 2025 at the Western Treatment Plant in Werribee.
The free event brings together Wadawurrung cultural programs, interactive science exhibits, guided birdwatching and historical tours, career pathway information and family activities designed to make understanding water engaging and practical for the whole community.
Visitors will leave with a better understanding of our water cycle, hands-on science experiences for children, and a deeper appreciation of the site’s unique wildlife and cultural heritage.
“Water WonderFest is more than a festival – it's a fresh take on learning and connection, designed to make water literacy fun, inclusive and hands-on,” said Jess Walker, Head of Western Treatment Plant at Melbourne Water.
“We’re excited to welcome the community to a site that’s not usually open to the public and share how water and nature come together to shape a sustainable future.”
Set on a site spanning an area roughly the size of Phillip Island, the Western Treatment Plant is one of Victoria’s most surprising and significant environmental landmarks. The plant features a unique blend of wastewater treatment, agriculture, and internationally recognised bird habitats.
Key experiences include:
- Wadawurrung cultural opening
- Bus tours - Wonderful World of Water and Birds of the Wetlands
- The Future Water Experience – Circular Cities Digital Challenge and interactive exhibits
- Western Treatment Plant presentation – operations, sustainability and conservation highlights
- Community Hub – a vibrant space to learn more about activities BirdLife Australia, Werribee River Association, The Nature Conservancy, NatureWest, and Victorian Wader Study Group
- Career pathways Q&A – apprenticeships, traineeships and entry pathways to Melbourne Water
- Kids' Corner - fun, hands-on activities and family entertainment
- Guided Historical Walking Tours of the Cocoroc Township
- Food and live music across the precinct.
Accessibility, safety and practical information
When: 10am-4pm, Sunday 9 November 2025
Where: 1 William Thwaites Drive, Cocoroc VIC 3030
Tickets: Free; bookings required. Book at https://events.humanitix.com/water-wonderfest
Accessibility: Accessible parking and pathways including wheelchair access; accessible, all-gender bathrooms; hearing loops.
Shuttle service: Complimentary shuttle buses run every 20 minutes from 9.30am between Werribee Station (old V-Line pick-up area) and the site. No booking required.
Safety and preparation: For all tours, visitors must wear flat, enclosed shoes (no sandals or heels) long-length pants and long-sleeved tops, bring sun protection and refillable water bottles, and follow signage on-site. Event staff and first aid will be on hand.
More information: For questions about Water WonderFest, contact [email protected]
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