An important Sand for seabirds project to renourish sand islands in the Gippsland Lakes is underway to restore habitat for beach nesting birds. 

The multi-partner project led by Gippsland Ports is improving areas of shoreline across the Gippsland Lakes by depositing sand to restore critical shore bird nesting habitat. Up to five hectares of island shoreline is being improved through this project for critically endangered shorebirds such as Little and Fairy Terns.  

The works are being completed according to a detailed profile design completed for Crescent Island, Horries Spit and Albifrons islands in 2023 which considered specific requirements for beach nesting bird habitat including the slope, height and width of the islands. Seagrass beds are also importantly being protected throughout works by avoiding populated areas in the adjacent channels. 

“Locals and visitors may have seen the works in progress as sand is being dredged to maintain the adjacent Steamer and Grange navigation channels near Crescent Island which is then used to renourish the Lakes’ outer barrier islands including Crescent Island, Horres Spit and Albifrons Island.” said Bec Hemming, CEO of East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority. 

The project also includes a review of boating rules and speed limits near Crescent Island to minimise the impact of wash and the erosion to the shoreline it causes. This means a five-knot speed limit applying to vessels eight metres and over through Bunga Arm which is also a positive result for boating safety. 

“Disturbance by wave energy caused by wind and boating activity as well as sea level rise impact these shoreline habitat areas over time,” “Protecting endangered shorebirds is at the heart of the project, so its timing has been crucial. BirdLife Australia are part of the project team and we are delighted that the works will be completed in time for the terns to scout out breeding sites and also for the return of international migratory species.”  

This project is being delivered through a coordinated effort between Gippsland Ports, GLaWAC, DEECA, East Gippsland CMA, Parks Victoria and Birdlife Australia. 

his project is part of a $248 million investment by the Victorian Government to improve the health of waterways and catchments. Of this, $7.5 million is being provided to improve the health of Gippsland Lakes over three years (2021-2024), through delivery of on-ground works and community engagement which is overseen by the Gippsland Lakes Coordinating Committee.