Hunter Wetlands Centre, Australia
A Ramsar Nominated Wetlands Site in the Heart of Newcastle, NSW
Apr 19, 2008
Referred to by locals as The Shortland Wetlands, the Hunter Wetlands Centre provides the perfect location to relax and enjoy an Australian Wetland environment. As Australia’s only dedicated wetlands centre managed by a community owned, not-for-profit organisation, the HWC benefits greatly from donations from visitors and the efforts of its volunteers. By investing in an annual membership (A$16.50 concession, A$33 individual, A$55 family) visitors can access the centre as often as desired, receive discounts on purchases and events and also support this significant environmental project.
History of the Hunter Wetlands Centre
A chance discovery of an Egret breeding colony in 1981 was the start of what is today the Hunter Wetlands Centre.
In 1983, the Newcastle City Council considered plans to allow a State Highway to bisect the site or to convert the area into a rubbish dump. A group of dedicated individuals petitioned council to consider the environmental importance of the egret nesting site and the ecological value of the land. A decision was finally made to set the land aside as a wildlife sanctuary.
Significant reconstruction and reclamation work between 1985 and 2002 improved the condition of the HWC to such a degree that an application for protection under the Ramsar Convention was announced. This acknowledges that the site is of international importance as a wetland environment. In 2005 the HWC won the prestigious International Ramsar Education Award
Australian Wetlands Wildlife
In summer approximately 4,000 egrets nest in the paperbark trees at HWC with their young. In autumn a mass migration of ibis arrive and in spring the native wildflowers bloom and swans and cygnets can be found on the ponds.
The HWC supports a large variety of birds, mammals, reptiles, fish and amphibians, despite its urban location. This is largely thanks to the tireless efforts of the many volunteers who donate their time to maintain and improve the wetland areas and protect this important natural environment.
A total of 213 bird species, represented in 49 families, have been recorded at the HWC. There are several species of fish, frogs and mammals also recorded.
Four different species of egret, the Little Egret, Intermediate Egret, Great Egret and Cattle Egret, migrate seasonally to the wetlands. The Magpie Geese are also popular with visitors.
Facilities at the Hunter Wetlands Center
A variety of activities and season events are held, offering something for all ages and interests. Regular events include the Spotlight Prowl, Breakfast with the Birds and guided canoe rides.
Education facilities at the site are regularly visited by groups of school students. The central building, which also houses the Cafe Nourish cafeteria, has a range of displays including tanks of long-necked turtles and stick insects.
A network of well-marked walking tracks allow visitors access to various areas including the Egret Tower overlooking the Egret nesting area. Those visiting the site to enjoy the outdoor activities are encouraged to use insect repellent as mosquitoes can be particularly annoying. Despite maintaining a natural appearance, the paths are kept free from overgrowth to ensure a safe walking track, especially in summer when a few local black snakes can make an appearance.
Canoeing and dipnetting facilities are available, with equipment available for hire from the main building.
School holiday activity programs include education, craft activities, canoeing and behind the scenes tours for school age children. A variety of theatre performances are held at the HWC throughout the year, including an annual performance of Kenneth Grahame’s The Wind in the Willows in October.
For further information about Hunter Wetland Centre programs, events, wildlife and information on how to best find or assist the Wetlands, visit the HWC website or contact them by phone on +61 2 4951 6466 or email at hwca@wetlands.org.au
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