Transition month ahead for Winton Wetlands

A month-long transition will see Winton Wetlands return to Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) management by August 1. The shift follows last week’s announcement by the site’s committee of management, the Odonata Foundation, to relinquish its role and hand back control of the 9000-hectare reserve to DEECA. The move has triggered redundancies for all 20 staff, temporary closure of the Mokoan Hub and Café, and a pause on environmental and research programs. Odonata, a conservation charity, had served as committee of management since August last year after a successful expression of interest. Chief executive Sam Marwood said the group worked with DEECA and local partners “to explore pathways for the future of Winton Wetlands.” He said they had hoped to attract ecotourism investment to support the reserve’s long-term vision but “despite our best efforts this did not eventuate.” “It has been a trying period for all involved. "Our empathy goes out to staff and local families. "We’re grateful to DEECA for their support.” Winton Wetlands CEO Dennis O’Brien, among those made redundant, will finish on July 22. He said Odonata’s plans for private investment offered hope for future sustainability. With running costs around $1 million per year, he said the site had never achieved self-sufficiency. Since its 2010 creation after Lake Mokoan was decommissioned, the state government has contributed $20 million, with additional grants from the Wettenhall Environmental Trust and EPA. Projects included frog and fish reintroductions, turtle restoration, revegetation, and nest box development. Nationals MP for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland has launched a community survey, inviting feedback on the site's future, particularly the hub and café. “Decisions must involve proper community consultation,” she said. The survey is available at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WintonWetlands