By Molly Magennis
Hobsons Bay council has teamed up with Hobsons Bay Wetlands Inc to advocate to the state government for $16 million to build a wetlands centre in the area
The proposed interactive wetlands centre was a part of council’s advocacy priorities for 2021-22 and will be a hub for immersive teaching and learning for all ages.
The wetlands centre has been designed by Grimshaw Architects to connect people inside to the nature outside.
The centre is set to feature a viewing tower, accessible walking trails and boardwalks, hands-on learning laboratories, research facilities, nature and water-based play spaces, and an ephemeral wetland.
It will also feature a café and retail and office spaces for nature-based businesses that provide local jobs and opportunities to volunteer.
The proposed centre will be located HD Graham Reserve in Altona Meadows near the internationally-recognised RAMSAR-listed Cheetham wetlands, where up to 65,000 migratory shorebirds visit each summer to feed and shelter from as far away as Siberia.
The design and construction is estimated to take 18 to 23 months and will create 40 full-time jobs.
Mayor Peter Hemphill said that the wetlands centre will be a huge drawcard for visitors and will be a place for people to “relax, refresh and connect to nature.”
“Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, reduce depression and anxiety and help children with learning and concentration. As we emerge from the impact of COVID-19, we all need a healthy dose of nature to help restore our physical and mental health.
“A dedicated wetlands centre would increase awareness of the value and importance of our internationally significant wetlands and conservation areas, provide learning for all ages and inspire us to care for our natural environment. We’re inviting the state government to help fund this innovative, environmentally-significant, community-driven project.”
