This year it will be focusing on international recognition of Australia’s wetlands.
Winton Wetlands has been working towards the achievement of an international listing for the ambitious Winton Wetlands restoration project — one of the biggest and most significant in the southern hemisphere.
The project has so far been listed as a ‘Wetland of Distinction’, the first outside the United States.
Project experts are keen to use the forum to share lessons learned from the process so far, and ensure other wetland projects can also benefit from what is being learned both at Winton and elsewhere in ongoing efforts to repair natural ecosystems and gain more recognition for the vital work under way.
This year’s forum will be packed into a single day, a change from previous events, which have been spread over two.
This will make it easier for attendees juggling busy schedules.
Experts due to speak at the forum include leading policymakers within the Australian and Victorian governments, as well as nationally known wetlands researchers.
According to organisers, the forum will provide not just an opportunity for wetland experts and land managers to hear from people who drive public policy, and researchers, but also an opportunity to ask questions and add perspectives of their own.
One of the key objectives of the annual event is to give people working in this rapidly growing field the opportunity to have input into the growing body of shared knowledge on how best to conserve and restore natural wetland systems, threatened in the 21st century by pollution, land clearing and other issues.
Conference organiser and wetland ecologist Lance Lloyd said the event was an important one on the annual calendar for people working in the field, and that many came from far and wide to attend.
“This is one of the best opportunities available for experts in their field to come together, share their knowledge for everyone’s benefit and help shape emerging practices and policies,” Mr Lloyd said.
“And it happens right here in north-east Victoria, so we’re very proud of it.”
Mr Lloyd said the event was open to anyone interested in the work going on, not just wetland scientists.
For more information and to book your place, visit www.wintonwetlands.org.au/
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