The world’s first Ramsar ‘wetland of significance’ designation was made 50 years ago – and it’s in the Northern Territory
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the designation of Cobourg Peninsula as a Ramsar site - the first Ramsar wetland of international importance to be declared in Australia and internationally.
The Commonwealth’s Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) hosted a celebration that was held in Geneva, Switzerland on Wednesday 8 May 2024 convened by the Australian Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva and the Convention on Wetlands Secretary General.
The Cobourg Peninsula is located 350km east of Darwin and is located within the Garig Gunak Barlu National Park, surrounded by the Van Diemen Gulf and Arafura Sea. It was designated as a Ramsar site as a result of its vast wetlands, and riverine, freshwater, brackish, intertidal and coastal ecosystems. Wetlands play a vital role in mitigating impacts of climate change and Cobourg Peninsula is important habitat for wetland and non-wetland dependent threatened species including the leatherback turtle, red goshawk, dugong and water mouse.
As well as being a special place for wildlife lovers, it boasts excellent fishing, and beautiful beachfront camping managed by NT Parks and Wildlife. Despite (and maybe because of!) its secluded location, it welcomes on average 700 visitors a year during its limited May – October season.
Cobourg Peninsula has a long history of conservation and, as a jointly managed park, the anniversary highlights the success of the partnership between Traditional Owners and NT Parks and Wildlife, and the ongoing spiritual links with the land and sea that Aboriginal clan groups continue to cultivate through their conservation efforts.
An on Country celebration will be held in June, with NT Parks and Wildlife, DCCEEW and the Northern Land Council working together to hold an event for families and invited guests to reconnect, or become acquainted with, this internationally recognised wetland of significance right in the Northern Territory. It will be an opportunity to recognise the conservation efforts that have contributed to maintaining the unique character of Cobourg Peninsula, and to celebrate the strength and success of the ongoing partnership.
Keep an eye on the NT Parks and Wildlife Facebook page to see photos from this very special anniversary event.
