RAMSAR WEEK 2026: CELEBRATING OUR GLOBALLY SIGNIFICANT WETLANDS

Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CMA) has announced the return of Ramsar Week, running from 2-6 February 2026, and kicking off on World Wetlands Day.

This annual celebration showcases the ecological importance of the two internationally recognised Ramsar wetland sites in the Corangamite CMA region: the Western District Lakes Ramsar site near Camperdown; and the Port Phillip Bay (Western Shoreline) and Bellarine Peninsula Ramsar site between Melbourne and Geelong.

Ramsar Week 2026 features a jam-packed program of FREE community events, designed to inspire curiosity, connection and care for these vital ecosystems. From canoe tours to Corangamite Skink spotting, the week offers something for everyone.

Bookings are now open for events including:

Wetlands with Wadawurrung
Canoe tour of Barwon Estuary with Ecologic
Canoeing Swan Bay and Marine Freshwater Discovery Centre tour with the Victorian Fisheries Authority
Western District Lakes Birding with Birdlife Australia
Corangamite Water Skink spotting with Greening Australia
Birds of Mud Islands with Birdlife Australia
Western Treatment Plant ecological tour with Melbourne Water
Western District Lakes hydrology session with Federation University’s Pete Dahlhaus
“eWater What?” – uncovering water science on Port Phillip Bay with Corangamite CMA

“Now in its third year, Ramsar Week 2026 is shaping up to be the biggest and most exciting yet.

It’s a chance for people to connect with nature, learn from experts, and celebrate the incredible biodiversity of these globally significant ecosystems,” said Corangamite CMA Biodiversity Project Officer Hannah Wiggs.

“Ramsar wetlands are globally recognised as outstanding examples of wetland ecosystems, including for biodiversity and providing vital habitat for migratory birds and threatened species.

“We are so fortunate to have two Ramsar wetland sites in our region. Educating people about the significance of these ecosystems fosters respect, understanding and ultimately the protection of the wetlands and their inhabitants,” she said.