January 31st, 2022Breakfast with the Birds

North Central Catchment Management Authority’s Breakfast with the Birds is back for another year.

The popular event in the northern part of the catchment is returning to Lake Murphy, near Kerang, early in the morning on Sunday, February 13.

“The lakes in the Kerang area are some of the most species-rich in southern Australia, and we want to show them off,” North Central CMA Catchment Restoration Officer Emma Wolters said.

“Both locals and visitors appreciate the importance of these wetlands, and Breakfast with the Birds is a great opportunity to see why.”

The North Central CMA delivered water for the environment into Lake Murphy throughout winter and spring 2021, which resulted in a lot of interest from native waterbirds.

“We’ve seen about 60 different species at Lake Murphy enjoying the water for environment, including brolga, glossy ibis, and little bittern,” Ms Wolters said.

“And we’ve been doing a lot of complementary work to keep rabbit and fox numbers down around the lake to make it an even more attractive place for birds to feed and breed.

“So, we really want to show that off.”

Breakfast with the Birds runs from 5am to 10.30am, is free, and includes coffee, tea, and a light breakfast.

This year, Birdlife Australia Science and Research project officer Darren Quin and ecologist Damien Cook will be on hand to help with bird identification and to share their knowledge.

“Bring a hat, a water bottle, binoculars, camera, and chair if you want one, and dress for all weather,” Ms Wolters said.

“It’s a great morning and a great chance for people to get back outside again and enjoy the benefits of water for the environment to the region.”

Registration is essential. Search Breakfast with the Birds in Eventbrite, or click on the News and Events section of our website – www.nccma.vic.gov.au

This event is supported by the North Central CMA, through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program and River Basin Management Society.