Enjoy events and activities
Coming Events
Nature Journalling with Carol Challis
Sat, 20 Sep, 9:45am - 1pm
This workshop offers an introduction to nature journalling, encouraging participants to slow down and observe the wetlands. It aims to help people connect with nature by recording their observations through a blend of science, art, and personal reflection. No prior experience in art, science, or drawing is required—just curiosity and a willingness to engage with the natural world.
‘Together in Nature’ Open Day
Sat, 11 Oct, 10am - 2pm
We’ll host an Open Day to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day at the Truganina Explosives Reserve on Saturday, 11 October 2025, with thanks to the Hobsons Bay City Council Make it Happen fund.
World Wetlands Day Celebration
Saturday, 7 February 2026
10am - 2pm
The next World Wetlands Day is on Monday, 2 February 2026. The global theme is “Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage”. As part of these international celebrations, Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre will host an event on Saturday, 7 February 2026 to celebrate the cultural heritage of our local wetlands. The event will open with a Bunurong Land Council smoking ceremony and welcome to country, followed by Indigenous led walks in the wetlands area, stalls featuring Indigenous arts and crafts, children’s activities, environmental stalls, citizen science displays and a free BBQ.
Activities
Join our Citizen Science team
Our Citizen Scientists have many activities in the pipeline, including carrying out an iNaturalist-based project for our future site at the HD Graham Reserve. Other Citizen Science activities include:
‣ Waterwatch (Melbourne Water)
‣ Carbon Sequestration (Blue Carbon Lab)
Let us know if you’d like to join in the fun by sending an email to info@hobsonsbaywetlandscentre.org.au.
We’ll send you dates and details of our activities. You don’t need any experience, just enthusiasm and a desire to help the environment.
Self-guided walks around the wetlands
There are easy, self-guided walks you can do to enjoy the wetlands environment and see:
Laverton Creek Spit
the Bird Sign
a Coastal Overlook
the Explosives Reservation
a Swift Parrot Sign
the Saltmarsh
a Orange Bellied Parrot Sign
the Cheetham Wetlands
the Time Beacon
You could also begin your walk at Apex Park in Altona or near the Truganina Explosives Reserve, or do the various walks around Truganina Park the Hundred Steps of Federation.
See a map and info sheet here.
Past Events
We’ve hosted a range of Open Days, workshops, and Citizen Science events to engage our community with the wonders of the wetlands.
Our Open Days have celebrated occasions such as World Wetlands Day, World Migratory Bird Day, and World Mental Health Day. These events have featured expert guest speakers on topics including migratory birds, Blue Carbon research, and the proven benefits of connecting with nature for mental health and wellbeing.
Care for Nature, Care for You: Our Open Day in October 2024
Discover the wonders of Hobsons Bay’s wetlands in this engaging video journey. Learn about the rich biodiversity, cultural significance, and community efforts to protect these vital ecosystems. Watch now to see why these wetlands matter — and how you can be part of their future.
Hope, Coping and Wellness: Mental health benefits of connecting with nature
Curious about how nature supports mental health and wellbeing? Hear from youth leader Sandy Gonzalez de la Vega and Dr Rebecca Patrick, Senior Lecturer in Health Promotion and Planetary Health at Deakin University, as they explore the powerful connection between time in nature and active coping strategies. Watch the video below to learn more.
Bird & Wetlands
Join local natural historian and artist Rob Mancini in an inspiring online workshop as he delves into the lives of our fascinating resident and migratory shorebirds, and the habitats they call home. Discover how these birds and their environments have shaped his artistic practice and storytelling. Watch the video below to explore more.
Our wonderful wetlands
Take a virtual walk through the wetlands of Hobsons Bay with local guide Gordon Lescinsky. In this video, Gordon shares his deep knowledge of the area’s unique landscapes, wildlife, and ecological significance. Watch now to explore the wetlands from wherever you are.
Saltmarsh Discovery
Missed this one? Join Gordon Lescinsky as he takes a closer look at our local saltmarshes—exploring the salt-tolerant plants that thrive in these unique environments and uncovering the science behind salinity, flooding, and our dynamic coastlines. Watch the video to learn more.