The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) will formally take over land management of the Winton Wetlands Reserve on 1 August.
Courtney Bertram, DEECA Hume acting regional director, said on Friday that the department is working with the current committee of management “to achieve an effective transition of management”.
“DEECA is committed to the ongoing restoration of Winton Wetlands Reserve and ensuring the community continues to use and enjoy the reserve,” she said.
The committee of management last month abruptly resigned, leaving the wetlands’ 20 full and part-time staff without jobs, closing the café and hub and suspending all research and environmental programs.
DEECA confirmed a public expression of interest process will be advertised shortly to determine interest in future use of the buildings, including the café, with the intent to lease the spaces so that they continue to benefit the local community.
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It is also understood DEECA will engage the wetlands’ current rangers to ensure continuity of site maintenance and pest plant and animal management programs at the reserve.
Local stakeholders, community groups and members of the public interested in the continuity and future of Winton Wetlands have met with DEECA, which has said it will continue to engage with local communities about their vision for the future of Winton Wetlands.
Nationals’ MP for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, has also met with representatives from DEECA and the office of the Minister for Environment and DEECA, advocating to ensure locals have a say in the future of Winton Wetlands.
She said hundreds of people have completed her community survey capturing views on the site’s future use, particularly the Mokoan Hub and Café.
“There is cautious optimism that under DEECA, we will see a more transparent and community-focused approach to managing the wetlands,” Ms Cleeland said.
“I have been encouraged by early discussions, especially around plans to maintain and restore the wetlands, reopen the café and hub through a private tender process, and continue important environmental and restoration projects.”
Ms Cleeland said it was vital that decisions about the site were made with the community, not behind closed doors.
“People are still incredibly disheartened by the sudden closure and the lack of transparency that came with it,” she said.
“But there is also a strong and shared determination to protect this site’s environmental, cultural and tourism value.
“I will be working alongside DEECA to make sure that happens with the community involved every step of the way.”
Ms Cleeland’s survey invites input from residents, volunteers, researchers, and visitors on ideas for land use, conservation, eco-tourism, education, and potential private partnerships.
The survey is available to complete at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WintonWetlands
