Wetlands Australia 33: Explore, engage and connect with Hattah

Author: Lisa Merrett, Mallee Catchment Authority and Parks Victoria

Hattah–Kulkyne National Park lies in mallee country only 60 kilometres drive from Mildura, in far north-west Victoria. With its beautiful native woodlands, freshwater lakes and vast open spaces, it is a place deeply loved by many.

The Ramsar-listed lakes provide vitally important drought refuge for birds, animals and vegetation, while the significant cultural and social values of the landscape continue to connect Traditional Owners and community members with this amazing part of the country.

The Hattah Lakes are a system of interconnected wetlands intermittently filled by creeks connected to the Murray River. When river flows are not high enough to naturally connect the creeks to the river, environmental infrastructure can be used to get water to where it is needed most, without impacting on other river users. The infrastructure has saved the lakes from ecological collapse and Hattah Lakes remains one of the best sites in the Murray–Darling Basin to witness the life-giving power of efficient water management.

Primary school students exploring the wetlands as part of the Parks Victoria Junior Ranger Program. Photo: Mallee Catchment Management Authority.

Today, the infrastructure continues to provide the critical linkage between the lakes and the Murray River, providing water to the lakes system in line with natural cues. The lakes were last filled in 2017–18 and are expected to receive water again in late autumn 2021.

Meanwhile, across the southern part of the system, there is water back in the lakes – and natural wet and dry periods rejuvenating the landscape. Hattah Lakes is once again a sought-after recreation destination. Camping, walking, bike riding and canoeing are popular and provide a great opportunity for the community to connect with nature and learn about the importance of the lakes.

Over many years and in partnership with Parks Victoria and Traditional Owners, the Mallee Catchment Management Authority has worked with a wide variety of community members including school children, birdwatching groups, aspiring citizen scientists and bat monitors.

In 2018, the Mallee Catchment Management Authority and its project partners, Parks Victoria launched the Wildlife detective activity book to help young people learn about the iconic Hattah Lakes, and understand what the lakes need to thrive so they can continue to provide important educational and recreational values. This activity book has helped hundreds of children and adults to enjoy learning and exploring the Hattah–Kulkyne National Park.

More recently, the Mallee Catchment Management Authority and Parks Victoria have been working with local groups on citizen science activities, such as monitoring bugs and observing bats. These activities see citizen scientists play a key role in assessing the health of the area and informing future watering events.

Students conducting bug monitoring at Hattah-Kulkyne National Park. Photo: Mallee Catchment. Management Authority.