13 September 2024

Avian influenza

As you may be aware, a new strain of high pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) called H5N1 has caused severe declines in wild birds overseas.

Australia is currently the only continent that has not detected H5N1 to date. Migratory species, such as the shorebirds that arrive at Western Treatment Plant (WTP) in September, are thought to be potential hosts of H5N1.

Please be assured that Melbourne Water has been working closely with Agriculture Victoria on avian influenza preparedness, and a bird monitoring program across the whole of WTP is currently in place to detect any potential outbreaks. Monitoring will take place from September to March for a range of potential wildlife disease outbreaks, including HPAI and avian botulism.

For more information on avian influenza, please see the Wildlife Health Australia website.

Snake safety

As the weather warms up, snakes are on the move again, searching for food and mates. Snakes are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975 and play a key role in our natural ecosystems. Snake bites are rarely life-threatening if medical treatment is promptly received. Awareness and preparedness are key!

To protect yourself and others:

  • Know how to respond in the unlikely event of a snake bite
  • Be vigilant when walking outside your vehicle
  • If you see a snake, stay still and alert others. When it’s safe to do so, move slowly away.

Refreshed birdwatching conditions and hazards document

Our Birdwatching Access Conditions and Hazards document (PDF, 2.1MB) has been updated. Please familiarise yourselves with this document to mitigate risk and increase safety on site.

  • Emergency contacts

    • In the event of a life-threatening emergency, call 000 and quote the emergency marker of the gate you have entered from. Proceed to contact the Western Treatment Plant Operations Centre on (03) 8734 4222.
    • For all other emergencies, contact Western Treatment Plant Operations on (03) 8734 4222.

Please note WTP tracks are gravel and not sealed. You are responsible for arranging services to address vehicle problems (for example, getting bogged or flat tyre).

Have you got the latest birdwatching map?

You’re encouraged to take a copy of the Birdwatching Map (PDF, 2.61MB) while on site and obey road closure signs. The map is also available on the birdwatching page on the Melbourne Water website.

If you have any queries, please don't hesitate to contact us:

Happy and safe birdwatching!

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