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Barwon River Bird Observation Point

Observation Point

Where

Peers Crescent, near Dare Street, Ocean Grove

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Bird Observation Point Brochure

This includes a list of birds you may spot.

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A peaceful place to observe birds

Located along the Barwon River in Ocean Grove, the bird observation point is a beautiful place to experience the sights and sounds of this internationally significant wetland.

The Barwon River bird observation point overlooks the river, mudflats and mangroves, where majestic Kunuwarra (Black Swans) glide across the water, and wading birds fossick for food.

The observation point includes a viewing area and seat, designed to provide a space where you can quietly watch birds without disturbing them. Bring your binoculars, sit back, and enjoy the ever-changing activity of the river. Visit in the evening and you might be lucky to see a golden sunset reflected on the water.

Look out for migratory shorebirds that visit during the warmer months before embarking on their long journeys back to the Arctic, as well as resident species that call this wetland home year-round.

Why is this place so special?

The Barwon River estuary is part of a Ramsar-listed wetland, meaning it is internationally recognised for its environmental significance. These wetlands provide crucial habitat for birds, including species that travel thousands of kilometres across the globe. The observation point allows visitors to connect with this unique ecosystem and appreciate the role it plays in supporting wildlife.

What birds might you see?

The best time to see shorebirds is at low tide, when they forage on the mudflats for food. Also look up to Sky Country and across the water to notice all the different species that rely on the Barwon River estuary.

Depending on the time of year, you might spot:

  • Migratory shorebirds such as the Bar-tailed Godwit, Eastern Curlew, and Red-necked Stint
  • Waterbirds like Royal Spoonbills, Pelicans, and Egrets
  • Bush birds including the Superb Fairy-wren and New Holland Honeyeater

Websites and apps such as eBird and iNaturalist are handy to help with identification.

For more information on local bird species, check out:

Explore more about the Barwon River and Ramsar Wetlands

To learn more about this incredible environment and why it’s protected:

Other local places to visit:

This project was made possible thanks to funding from the Victorian State Government through the Victorian Landcare Grants Program and the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority.

Barwon Coast thanks the following groups for their involvement: Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, Barwon Estuary Project, Bellarine Catchment Network, BirdLife Australia, BirdLife Bellarine, Friends of the Hooded Plover Bellarine, Friends of the Lobster Pot (Coastal Creatives group) and Geelong Field Naturalists Club.