By Sandra Wilson
Meandering paths and elevated boardwalks thread between tussocked mounds rimmed with gilgais – indigenous for small ephemeral pools – to a gathering place which includes a roofed pair of wooden tables with a view of Laverton Creek.
This mini botanic garden of western plains grassland species is the designated Stage 1 of the proposed Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre in Altona Meadows.
‘The Mounds’ were opened to the public in early September as the launching pad for ongoing advocacy for this ambitious regional centre, inspired by the UK model of wetlands centres endorsed by Sir David Attenborough.
Stage 1 is the landscaped buffer between the Altona Sports Centre and the northern edge of the site at HD Graham Reserve that is proposed to host the wetlands centre. The original concept was designed by internationally acclaimed architects, Grimshaw.
The vision for a wetlands centre in Hobsons Bay dates to 2017 when as mayor I met with Marilyn Olliff, who became the inaugural chair of HBWC Inc. She was passionate about finding a ‘place for nature’ – a wetlands centre – somewhere in the West.
Living within walking distance of Truganina Park and the 100 Steps of Federation overlooking Cheetham Wetlands, I thought there was no better place to accommodate the vision. I was one of the founding members of HBWC Inc which built on Marilyn’s vision by creating strong stakeholder partnerships with Hobsons Bay City Council, Melbourne Water, Deakin University, Greater Western Water, Ecolinc, Cirqit Health, and community to scope the potential for something special that would support education and connection to nature for conservation and well-being outcomes.
Hobsons Bay City Council has committed $5m to Stage 2, an operational centre and a demonstration wetlands system, contingent upon a further $5m from government or another funding source, hence ongoing advocacy. If a building to support conservation education and connection to nature were to attract what sports facilities often get, it would be a win for the environment and the teams of people who value biodiversity and preservation of nature in local neighbourhoods.
The opening was attended by enthusiasts from environment groups, a handful of Altona Meadows locals, Hobsons Bay Mayor, Councillors and staff, including the dedicated Hobsons Bay conservation team. James Brown of the Bunurong gave a Welcome to Country that was an inspired science lesson and a ‘come with purpose’ message. Current HBWC Inc chair, Pamela Sutton-Legaud, spoke of ‘the love that can be felt here’; a testament to the collaboration that sits at the heart of this project. Mat Hilakari, Member for Point Cook, whose electorate the wetlands centre would be in, lauded the landscaping of Stage 1 but was circumspect about any state government funding.
The Mounds with their waving fronds of kangaroo and wallaby grass, delightful trails and gathering space enhance this special conservation landscape.
Should funding be realised for Stage 2, the impacts of increased participation at the adjacent sports centres for basketball, netball and soccer contributing more traffic, parking, lighting, and noise, will need to be carefully considered to protect the serenity of this ‘place for nature’ for those who want to enjoy and protect it.
