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. A bird monitoring program across the whole of WTP will be in place to detect any potential avian disease outbreaks, including HPAI and avian botulism.

H5N1: What to look out for

There is an increased risk of a highly pathogenic strain of Avian Influenza, H5N1, entering Australia from migratory birds. Outbreaks of this strain have resulted in mass illness and death of wildlife, particularly wild birds and poultry.

If anyone encounters sick or dead wild birds and wildlife that may be infected by H5N1, it is important that they:

• are aware of the clinical signs of sickness
• minimise any risks to themselves and other animals
• report to Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) and Melbourne Water.

The clinical signs of H5N1 Avian Influenza are:

• Lack of coordination, tremors, swimming in circles
• Difficulty breathing, coughing or sneezing
• Twisted necks or other unusual posture
• Swelling around the head, neck and eyes
• Inability to stand or fly
• Cloudiness or change in colour of the eyes
• Diarrhoea
• Death

What to do:

1. Avoid contact with wild birds or wildlife and maintain good hand hygiene. Do not touch or collect sick or dead wild birds or wildlife.
2. Record what you see. If safe, record information on the number of dead birds/animals, species, location, date and time.
3. Report known or suspected presence of H5N1 Avian Influenza in any wildlife by calling DEECA on 136 186 AND emailing [email protected]

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:

• Stay on the formed paths/roads - walking into vegetation is not allowed
• Know how to respond in the unlikely event of a snake bite
• Be vigilant when getting out of 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.

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:

• email [email protected]
• call 131 722.

Happy and safe birdwatching!