By Helen Meyer-Tinning
The Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre invites the community to a celebrate World Wetlands Day 2026.
It is a free, all ages event, bringing community together to enjoy art and science activities, guided walks, environmental and community group stalls, performances, workshops, as well as free BBQ, indigenous plants and door prizes!
World Wetlands Day has been celebrated on the 2nd of February since 1997 and has been a United Nations International Day since 2022. It is a global campaign that calls on all nations and people to protect our planet’s wetlands.
In 2026 the global theme is “Wetlands and traditional knowledge: Celebrating cultural heritage”. WWD2026 highlights the deep-rooted connections between wetlands and cultural practices, traditions and knowledge systems of communities across the globe.
The Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre is working with the Hobsons Bay City Council to create an event to connect people with how traditional knowledge can help us understand the environment and help preserve and protect wetlands.
Robert Odgen, proud Bunurong, Tyereelore, Trawoolway man and Custodian of Bunurong Country, will provide a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony and lead two Cultural walks. Robert has deep knowledge of Indigenous seasons and plants, and the oral history of Port Phillip Bay and surrounding wetlands.
Proud Bunurong/Boonwurrung and Wiradjuri woman Samantha Bennett, will teach traditional weaving skills while yarning about Bunurong artefacts, and the ways of being for Aboriginal people in the past and the modern day.
Ganga Giri, a proud Palawa/Melukerdee man recognised by Aboriginal elders for honouring the Yidaki’s (didgeridoo’s) spiritual and cultural heritage, will provide a powerful performance, channeling the sacred connection to Country.
The Wetlands Centre’s wonderful and dedicated volunteers will guide visitors through lots of fun and creative art and science activities. Environmental experts and community groups who love and protect different areas of Western Melbourne will be there to share their knowledge.
Relax in the beautiful surrounds of the Truganina Explosives Reserve, bring the family and a picnic! This event is supported by the West Gate Neighbourhood Fund.
Saturday 7 February 2026, between 10am and 2pm
Truganina Explosives Reserve, 274 Queen Street, Altona
