Save Westernport is a not-for-profit organisation formed by community members to protect the Wetland that is Westernport Bay. For over 50 years local residents have been resisting inappropriate industrial development in the Port of Hastings. Save Westernport was formed to continue a long line of passionate advocates for the integrity of this critical natural resource. The Bay has been regenerating beautifully since the defeat of proposed aluminium smelters, bitumen plants, container terminals and the AGL gas proposal. Westernport communities care about their bay and the preservation of the environment.
The Divestment of HMAS Cerberus Naval Base
Information session at Crib Point, full to capacity. Members of Save Westernport recently joined over 340 people at a public information session about [...]
Recent submissions by Save Westernport on local matters of environmental importance.
In late 2025 Save Westernport made a Submission on Melbourne Water’s draft revision of the Western Port Ramsar Site Management Plan. The new Ramsar Site [...]
EES Scoping Requirements Released
The Final EES Scoping Requirements have been published for the proposed Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal (VRET) in the Port of Hastings in Westernport Bay. The [...]
Save Westernport works closely with
Westernport
Westernport’s internationally recognised ecosystems are home to amazing wildlife, incredibly diverse wetlands and idyllic beaches. But, if you’re reading this you probably know just how special Westernport Bay is. This is why generations have fought to protect it – and now it’s our turn.
Endangered Species
The critically endangered Eastern Curlew uses Westernport’s wetlands to feed and recover before returning on the long journey back to its breeding grounds in Siberia. With fewer than 70 in the wild, the equally endangered Orange-bellied Parrot also uses Westernport’s resources over winter before returning to summer in Tasmania. They are the world’s only migratory parrot, and this year Westernport was chosen as the perfect site to release hand-raised chicks that will increase wild populations. These are just two of many endangered species that rely on the ecology of the Bay for survival.
Recovering Wetland
Westernport’s wetlands are undergoing a long recovery from damage caused by agricultural run-off and industrial pollution in the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. Countless plants and animals have re-established themselves and their future looks good, as long as we can stop any further industrialization of Westernport.
Stop the destruction
The inappropriate demands of heavy industry that defined the Port of Hastings in the 1960s must now be weighed against the urgent need to protect biodiversity and prevent ecosystem collapse. Nothing short of world’s best practice can reverse the damage. You can help by becoming a member of Save Westernport, and by signing up for our newsletter updates here.
Stop The Threat!
Many large corporations and even our own Victorian Government still regard Westernport as a potential heavy industry zone or port. Our work is ‘cut out for us’ in our passion to protect this unique biosphere, & Ramsar designated wetlands.
Upcoming Events
Looking to see what we’re all about here at Save Westernport? Come along to one of our upcoming events to get a better idea of what we’re all about and what you can do to help!
