The Winton Wetlands are located in northeast Victoria, about 17kms from Benalla. This area is home to a wide variety of native flora and fauna. The 8,750 hectare area includes 32 separate wetland zones with more than 180 species of birds. Visitors to the wetlands can take bike rides, walks and visit the Mokodan Hub and Cafe.
This is an area with thousands of years of native cultural heritage that offers some fascinating insights into the lives of the Yorta Yorta people.
Renowned street artist Guido Van Helten has painted a water tank in the area, which is part of the Victoria Silo Art Trail. Every visit to Winton Wetlands offers something new to explore, and it’s a special place that many people visit frequently.
Unravelling the History and Formation of Winton Wetlands
In 1971, the Winton or Mokoan Swamp was flooded to create Lake Mokoan. This increased water storage potential in the area for economic growth and to improve recreation.
This added around $10-$15 million to the annual economy at the cost of 7,000 ha of ancient forests, unique wetlands, and pre-existing agricultural land. The inundation of this land destroyed approximately 200,000 Red River Gum trees, and some sacred remnants can be seen emerging from the surface to this day.
A run of several dry years can leave Lake Mokoan completely dry with blue-green algae and a loss of water to evaporation. This has raised the topic of decommissioning which has been opposed by local irrigation users and people that use the lake for recreation. After some protest, the lake was decommissioned and the stored water was returned to the Murray-Darling river system. This allowed the Snowy River water to return to its previous direction.
In 2010, the restoration of this site was undertaken by the Winton Wetlands Committee of Management. Multiple partners, supporters, and interested parties have stated that there is a focus on protection, rebuilding, and reintroducing threatened species and ecological systems is a priority. This has created a unique experience for local people and visitors that drives conservation, tourism, and economic development in a harmonious manner.
The Flora and Fauna of the Winton Wetlands
The flora and fauna of the Winton Wetlands are extremely diverse. Here are just a few of the species found in this area:
- Fish: There are important native freshwater fish species, including the Murray Cod, Golden Perch and Carp, which were introduced later.
- Amphibians and Reptiles: These wetlands are home to the Eastern Long-necked Turtle, several important frog species, and more.
- Birds: There are bird species present throughout the year, such as herons, ducks, and swans, and migratory birds, such as raptors and Latham’s Snipe that visit regularly.
- Mammals: Visitors can see kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, and other mammals foraging in the grasslands and woodlands that surround the wetlands.
- Aquatic Plants: There are many aquatic plants, including Water Milfoils, Watter Ribbons, and more that contribute to nutrient cycling and habitat complexity.
- Trees: The areas surrounding the wetlands are filled with trees, such as River Red Gum, Yellow Box, and other important species.
- Reeds and Sedges: As wetlands there are Common Reeds and a variety of sedges that provide food and habitation for wildlife in the area.
Recreational Activities at Winton Wetlands
The wetlands are an important location for raptors, waterfowl, and migratory birds. This makes this a natural draw for birdwatchers and wildlife photographers. But, there are walking trails and walking paths that give visitors the opportunity to encounter other wildlife up close.
There are signs along these trails that provide plenty of information on the local flora and fauna and their significance in the ecosystems and culture. It’s also possible to explore the wetlands by kayak or canoe to gain a unique perspective. Mountain bikers can find some challenging trails to follow, and those that want to learn more can participate in a guided tour led by locals.
Conservation Efforts and Environmental Education
In the Winton Wetlands, considerable resources have been directed into protecting and restoring the site along with education. This promotes sustainable use, ecological integrity, and engagement with the community and visitors to the area. The human impact has been minimized to protect sensitive and vulnerable habitats. The focus has been placed on low-impact recreational activities and Eco-friendly tourism.
The restoration of natural hydro-logical processes by the complete removal of constructed levees that affect water flow is well underway. This work is important; the aim is to recreate the natural wetlands that were lost. This improves the habitats and the water quality to benefit the flora, fauna, and general health of the ecosystems. The native vegetation is crucial to stabilizing the soil and enhancing the biodiversity.
Revegetation programs are underway to plant wetland plants, trees, and shrubs to restore the vegetation. These restore areas that have become degraded and provide plant rich paths for wildlife to repopulate.
Growling Grass Frogs Living at Winton Wetlands
One of the largest ongoing conservation campaigns is to restore the population of Growling Grass Frogs to the Winton Wetlands. This species was last recorded in the area in 1970 before the Lake Mokoan Dam was constructed. When the wetlands were inundated, this species was believed to be extinct in the area. With the decommissioning of the dam and the restoration of the natural hydrology, this species is viable for reintroduction.
The aim is to increase the natural population because the wetlands are far beyond the natural colonization range for this frog species. It’s believed that the reintroduction of this frog will improve the long-term viability of the ecosystems. The addition of an important predator and prey species such as this will be important for the aquatic and terrestrial habitats.
This project is an important part of the Biodiversity 2037 policy of the Victorian Government, and this frog is just one of the 100 priority species on the Australian Government’s list for recovery. The program can improve the upward trajectory of other species that share the natural habitat with Growling Grass Frogs.
Visitor Information and Tips When Visiting Winton Wetlands
To reach the Winton Wetlands, travel from Benalla, and you should see the entrance located 10 km north off the Benalla-Tocumwal Road. Visitors can stay in Benalla or camp in the wetlands if they prefer. There are 20 unpowered campsites across a pair of locations inside the wetlands reserve. These are great places to stay close to nature, enjoy native bird calls at dawn, and experience the best sunrises and sunsets.
There are three main camps to use with some variable features
- Bill Friday Swamp: This has ten campsites. It’s suitable for tents, trailers, and camper-vans with envirodome toilets. There are no showers and the maximum is six people per campsite. This is basic bush camping; there are picnic shelters, and the camps are located 3km from the Lunette Walk. This is a great location to spot kangaroos.
- Green’s Hill Camp: This camp has ten campsites across two different locations with a maximum of six people per campsite. It has one of the better sunset viewing spots and direct access to Green’s Spit and Green’s Hill Walk. There are picnic shelters, envirodome toilets and a communal fire pit to enjoy. There are no showers, this camp is suitable for tents, campers and trailers.
- Duckpond Camp: This is a location for open bush-land camping. There are no numbered sites, and it’s suitable for tents. With some care, it may be possible to site a camper-van or trailer, but visitors need to bring their own water. There are no picnic tables, there is no fire pit, and from October to May, it can be hot. Venomous snakes are common in the area and snake bandages should be kept close at hand. The cost per night is similar to the other sites, but the facilities are extremely basic.
Art On Structures Around The Wetlands
There is an extra layer of culture in the Winton Wetlands landscape with art from prominent artists, such as Guido Van Helton, Troy Firebrace, Andrew J Bourke, and others. They have created art that merges with the landscape along the local art trail.
The perfect place to start an exploration of this art trail is at the Mokoan Hub & Cafe. There are three works that offer a must-see experience for lovers of art in nature. The first is the North East Victoria Silo Art Trail. Here, you can find the Water Tank painted in 2016 by Guido Van Helten. This piece shows three local Fire Authority Volunteers against a backdrop of River Red Gums.
Next and a perfect one for driving is the Art in Landscape Tour. It takes in the Water Gallery at Ashmeads Swamp, fish painted on Boggy Bridge Road trees, and a portrait of Hilda Bain at The Lunette.
Finally, be sure to check out the Sanctuary Mural. This was painted in 2019 by Andrew J Bourke, and it can be found near the Mokoan Hub & Cafe. This piece features a Growling Grass Frog and Lace Monitor to support the ideals of the local conservation and restoration project.
Winton Wetlands In Conclusion
The Winton Wetlands are a wonderful showcase of efforts to restore the natural beauty of an area that has rich ecosystems for myriad flora and fauna. The importance of preservation can be seen everywhere and there are plenty of opportunities to learn more on site. For people looking for fun and relaxation, there are low-impact recreation activities to explore. These wetlands can be explored at your own pace, and many visitors return regularly to reconnect with nature and take time out from the busy modern world.