Melbourne Water has celebrated World Wetlands Day with an event at the Western Treatment Plant and Edithvale-Seaford Wetland Education Centre, VIC. The event attracted around 170 visitors across the two sites.
The 2014 theme ‘Wetlands & Agriculture’ was highlighted at the Western Treatment Plant, where industry and conservation exist in harmony. Visitors to the west participated in free tours of the site, including viewing the sewage treatment plant and the Ramsar listed wetland areas. The huge new Melbourne region map was on display at the Discovery Centre, along with information and presentations from guest speakers.
In the east, visitors to the Edithvale-Seaford Wetland Education Centre learnt about the wetlands and their agricultural past. The Friends of Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands lead a series of walks, highlighting different features of the wetlands and their history. At the Education Centre visitors learnt about birds and local history and took part in activities including water bugs, the stormwater model and bird watching.
Melbourne Water has regular open days at the Western Treatment Plant or tours can be booked for school or community groups. The Education Centre at Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands is also available for groups or is open to the public every Sunday.