Hundreds are expected to flock to the Truganina Explosives Reserve in Altona on Saturday 10 May for a celebration of nature, community and the extraordinary journey of migratory birds.
The Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre Open Day, held in partnership with Hobsons Bay City Council, coincides with World Migratory Bird Day—marking the annual departure of shorebirds from Australia to their breeding grounds across the Northern Hemisphere. These small, determined travellers follow the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, linking Australia with communities as far north as Siberia.
From 10am to 2pm, visitors will be treated to a family-friendly lineup of free activities, including birdwatching walks, cultural performances, children’s art workshops, native plant giveaways, and a free BBQ hosted by Hobsons Bay Men’s Shed. Organisers say the event aims to deepen appreciation of the natural world, and how Australia is connected to it far beyond its borders.
Chair of the Wetlands Centre will open the program, followed by a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony from the Bunurong Land Council. A cultural walk, led by the Council, will take participants through the site’s traditional stories and natural features.
Birdlife Australia will join a host of stallholders from local environmental groups including NatureWest, Sea Shepherd Australia, Friends of Newport Lakes, and the Werribee River Association. Interactive displays and citizen science stations will offer curious minds a chance to learn more about the wetlands and the species that depend on them.
At midday, Charlie Sonneman will lead a guided birdwatching session, offering insights into the habits and flight paths of the migratory species. For younger visitors, bilingual storytelling sessions will be held by Anna Manuel and Rohini Vij, weaving nature tales in English and Hindi.
Entertainment will continue with the beats of the F7 Soul Drummers and a dance performance from the Maidens of Polynesia. Attendees can also try Sonam Mehendi’s henna tattoos, enter the lucky door prize draw, or browse a wildlife photo exhibition by a local artist.
While the event is free to attend, there will be snacks and drinks available for purchase from The Coffee Mill cart.
The open day is supported by the West Gate Neighbourhood Fund as part of Victoria’s Big Build, alongside contributions from the Ross Trust and Hobsons Bay City Council.
As the birds begin their long journey northward, the event invites the local community to reflect on its place in a wider ecological story—one that spans continents, cultures, and seasons.
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