Western Port Environment Research Forum

Melbourne Water, in partnership with other Victorian government agencies and leading scientists, have been undertaking a range of strategic research projects to enhance our knowledge of the Western Port marine and coastal environment. These research projects will help us protect and improve the bay’s health into the future.

This free public event is an opportunity to learn about the important progress that has been made in advancing our understanding of this unique environment and covers a range of topics including:

• Seagrasses: The environmental factors that shape populations and how research is informing restoration approaches
• Sediments: Historical and current sources in the bay, the impact of sedimentation and options for management
• Birds and Fish: Species trends across the bay including habitat requirements
• Mangroves: Habitat extent, ecological function and revegetation techniques
• Toxicants: Identification, impacts and management

Researchers will discuss their findings from projects undertaken as part of Melbourne Water’s Western Port Environment Research Program since 2011.

Speakers include scientists and practitioners from Monash, RMIT and Deakin Universities, CSIRO, University of Melbourne, Melbourne Water, Arthur Rylah Institute and Eco Insights consulting.

See our latest report, Understanding the Western Port Environment 2018.

Catering: Morning tea and lunch will be provided. Please advise us of any dietary requirements by emailing westernportreview@melbournewater.com.au

Cancellations: Please help us avoid overcatering and food wastage by letting us know if you can't make it - either via Eventbrite, email westernportreview@melbournewater.com.au or phone: (03) 9679 9064

Transport: Free car parking at the centre as well as on-street parking in Lakeside Boulevard and in the shopping centre opposite the complex. There is a bus stop located directly in front of the centre for the Cardinia Transit 926 Bus from Fountain Gate or Pakenham.

The venue is accessible by both metro and country rail services. The centre is a 20-minute walk from Cardinia Road Railway Station. Check the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) website for timetable and route information.

Please feel free to forward this invitation to interested colleagues and friends.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Rhys Coleman and Rachael Bathgate

Waterways and Wetlands Research