Focus on wetlands

FANTASTIC prizes are up for grabs during a World Wetlands Day photo competition being held by Casey Council this summer.
Budding photographers are invited to submit photographs of the wetlands adjacent to Western Port and throughout the municipality for their chance to win.
City of Casey Mayor Amanda Stapledon said the photo competition was a great opportunity for residents to capture what they love about the Western Port coastline or their local wetland.
“Casey has an abundance of beautiful wetlands which would complement any photograph,” Cr Stapledon said.
World Wetlands Day is celebrated on 2 February and aims to raise public awareness of the value of wetlands and efforts to conserve these valuable habitats.
In honour of the internationally recognised day, the City of Casey encourages members of the community to be mindful of their environmental impact at home and when visiting coastal sites.
“The City of Casey is fortunate to have an internationally significant wetland right on its doorstep,” Cr Stapledon said.
“Wetlands throughout the municipality provide important habitat for wildlife and are wonderful recreational places for our community.
“It is vital that we preserve these beautiful surrounds for our future generations.”
The City of Casey has been a proud member of the Western Port Biosphere Reserve Foundation since the United Nations proclaimed the Western Port region a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 2002.
Biosphere reserves aim to preserve unique regions by supporting conservation and sustainable development.
Several Westfield shopping vouchers up for grabs for the winning entries and the photographs will be displayed at the City of Casey Civic Centre in February.
The winner will be invited to a future council meeting to receive their award from the mayor.
Entries must be received by Monday 28 January.
For more information visit the council’s website at www.casey.vic.gov.au/environment or contact the City of Casey on 9705 5200.