Bass Coast Shire Council has endorsed a new Environmental Partnership Agreement with Western Port Down Under, committing $55,000 in funding for one year to support an ambitious project that will showcase the remarkable marine environment of Western Port through science, storytelling, education and community engagement.
Endorsed at Council's July meeting, the partnership recognises the significant environmental, cultural and economic benefits of the project, which brings together scientists, naturalists, cinematographers and award-winning writers to reveal the hidden wonders of one of Victoria's most important marine ecosystems.
Western Port Down Under, from the award-winning team behind Melbourne Down Under (Network Ten), is a feature documentary exploring Western Port's extraordinary marine environment. Using cutting-edge filming technology, the project has already captured previously unseen marine behaviours, including what is believed to be the first recorded evidence of biofluorescence in an Australian swellshark.
The project aligns with Council's environmental objectives by increasing awareness of Western Port's unique marine ecosystems, including its extensive seagrass meadows, saltmarshes and mangrove habitats. Through citizen science initiatives, school programs and community events, the project aims to strengthen community understanding of coastal management, biodiversity and climate resilience.
The partnership also presents opportunities to support local artists, creatives and cultural practitioners through exhibitions, interpretation and community programming that connect people with the natural environment.
