Fifteen new projects aimed at protecting the Gippsland Lakes are now underway across the region on Gunaikurnai Country, marking the latest phase of coordinated
environmental action under the Love Our Lakes program.
Delivered by nine regional partners, the projects build on more than two decades of collaborative work focused on preserving the health of the internationally recognised Gippsland Lakes.
The suite of initiatives was recently endorsed by the Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee, which will oversee delivery across three key focus areas, all aimed at maintaining and improving the ecological condition of the Ramsar-listed wetland.
Under the “Healthy Country” stream, eight projects will focus on protecting threatened flora and fauna, enhancing critical wetland habitats and trialling innovative approaches to address the impacts of climate change.
A further five projects fall under “Protecting Priority Species,” targeting pest plant and animal control to support breeding conditions for threatened bird species and safeguard important habitats.
The remaining two projects, under “Knowledge Building,” will investigate emerging issues such as toxicants and nutrient impacts, while continuing environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling led by the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation.
Committee chair Eric Sjerp said the program reflected a strong shared commitment across the region.
“The shared ‘love for the Lakes’ by community and partners is at the heart of the program,” he said.
“By bringing together resources, knowledge and passion, we are well placed to deliver this next round of projects and contribute to conserving the Gippsland Lakes.”
Mr Sjerp said the projects were selected in line with the Gippsland Lakes Priorities Plan 2025–2028 and would build on years of successful on-ground work.
“We are delighted to oversee the work continuing across the catchment to improve the health of the Lakes, with a strong focus on collaboration and coordination between land and waterway managers,” he said.
Program partners include Parks Victoria, Greening Australia, Marine Mammal Foundation, Trust for Nature, the East and West Gippsland Catchment Management Authorities, and the East Gippsland Shire Council and Wellington Shire Council.
The projects are funded by the Victorian Government as part of ongoing efforts to improve the long-term health of the Gippsland Lakes.
the Love Our Lakes program, continuing more than two decades of collaborative environmental work. (PS)
