National Parks and Reserves

Werribee River, the abundance of wetland habitats and the coastal line make the region a haven for birdlife and birdwatchers. Hundreds of species call this region home, with migratory shorebirds flying from as far as Siberia, Japan and Alaska. If spotting some of these rare and endangered species in their natural habitat is on your bucket list, then this is the place to come.

Point Cook Coastal Park and Cheetham Wetlands are one of Australia’s most important wetlands. Head to ‘The Tower’ at the southern end of the Cheetham Wetlands for a 360 degree view, incorporating the wetlands and the Melbourne skyline. There are two significant lakes, Spectacle Lake and RAAF Lake and numerous natural ponds. Spectacle Lake has a bird hide that offers a discreet position.

Western Treatment Plant is among Australia’s top bird-watching sites and internationally recognised bird habitats under the Ramsar Convention. The diversity of birdlife is considered second only to Kakadu in Australia, with over 280 recorded species. Birdwatching tours to Western Treatment Plant are available by private operators and these guides have a wealth of knowledge to share. For interstate and international self-drive visitors, you can apply and pay online for a bird watching day pass at the Western Treatment Plant website and collect your key from the Werribee Visitor Information Centre seven days a week.