Conservation and Environment

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Western Port Ramsar Site

The Western Port Ramsar Site is a large bay located 60 kilometres southeast of Melbourne. This site was chosen for its abundance of foraging, nesting and nursery areas for a variety of animals including threatened bird species. Features of the Western Port Ramsar Site are: More than 350 native plant and 330 native animal species ranging from reptile, amphibian, mammal, fish and bird species. Its importance as habitat for migratory shorebirds frequenting Victoria. One of the largest breeding populations of Pied Oystercatchers is found on French Island. A refuge for waterbirds during summer and drought. Due to its marine nature, the site provides habitat year round. Recently listed on the Register of the National Estate under the Natural Environment section for its outstanding marine and coastal environmental values.

Further details can be found in the following Information Sheet, Site Management Plan and Site Map.

Western Port Information Sheet (PDF - 39 Kb)

Western Port Ramsar Site Strategic Management Plan (PDF - 1.4 Mb)

Western Port Site Map (PDF - 962 Kb)