Estuaries and Inlets of Bunurong to Mullungdung Coasts
We are working to manage estuaries for conservation, cultural values and recreational use.
About the project
From Inverloch to Kilcunda rivers flow into Bass Strait and these areas are known as estuaries. They are precious waterways and coasts with high cultural significance and deep importance for Traditional Owners.
These estuaries open and close over time (known as Intermittently Open/Closed Estuaries) and are very important waterways that provide habitat for animals – some threatened. This includes Fairy Terns, Orange-Bellied Parrots, Hooded Plovers and important native fish such as the Australian Grayling.
Estuaries also support threatened plant communities such as temperate saltmarsh, estuarine swamp/scrub and important landscape features like a salt wedge estuary.
The Bunurong to Mullundung Coast’s Intermittently Open/Closed Estuaries and Inlets support recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, swimming and walking and contribute to agriculture and tourism.
With this project, we will work Traditional Owners, partners, landholders and community to:
- Regulate estuary closures in accordance with the Victorian Waterway Strategy
- Reduce the need for artificial openings
- Eradicate Spartina completely from Shallow Inlet
- Remove Spartina infestations from key asset areas to maintain and enhance bird habitat and boating channels.
Project partners
- Bass Coast Shire Council
- BirdLife Australia
- Bunurong Land Council
- Department of Transport and Planning
- Gippsland Ports
- Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation
- Landcare
- Parks Victoria
The Estuaries and Inlets of Bunurong to Mullundung Coasts project is supported by the Victorian Government through the Victorian Waterways Management Program.
Latest news
Autumn Estuary update
Estuaries are dynamic and often in a state of transition, this Autumn is a great example of an environmental zone that is in flux. Across West Gippsland, estuaries are super important, working hard to soften the transition as rivers meet the sea, as conditions change so do the estuaries.
Powlett provides important wetland habitat
The Powlett River/Kugerungmome estuary on Bunurong Country near Kilcunda is a significant and ever-changing wetland that provides essential habitat for wildlife. In late August 2024, the river mouth closed to Bass Strait naturally and West Gippsland CMA is monitoring the event.
Opening of Bourne Creek estuary at Kilcunda
Bourne Creek estuary entrance closed naturally to the ocean last week after large swells deposited sand across the estuary entrance. Those same swells caused water levels in the creek to rise, the estuary is scheduled to be opened on Tuesday 3 September 2024.
