Wetlands wonderland, minutes from Tarneit

With Autumn still producing some beautifully fine days, it’s a great time to get outdoors. For those with kids or a bit of an adventurous spirit, the Heathdale Glen Orden Wetlands presents a huge landscape to explore for the young and the young at heart alike.

The wetlands consist of over 35 hectares of open space, with a boardwalk and soft track network to cross the wetlands system or make your way around their edges. Doing so will surely reward your effort, as the region is home to a delightful variety of native wildlife and flora, making it perfect for bird watching!

Among the birds you can expect to see are Willie Wagtails, Red Wattlebirds, Pacific Black Duck, White Plumed Honeyeater, European Goldfinch and many more. Take a moment to rest at one of the seating areas or rotundas, or let the kids burn off some excess energy with the well-appointed playground.

What’s more, there’s even an epic BMX bike track that has to be seen to be believed. Home to the Wyndham Warriors BMX Club, it’s a fantastic circuit with great ramps and jumps. Be advised though, protective clothing must be worn at all times, and there are no toilets available as part of the wetland complex.

You can find the Heathdale Glen Orden Wetlands on Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing, just 10 minutes drive from Tarneit.

Photo: European Goldfinch, © Francis C. Franklin