Call out to birdwatchers – new access tags for Byron Wetlands

Published on 24 June 2020

Do you have a pass for birdwatching in the Byron Bay Wetlands?  Council is installing a new security gate at the Wetlands and is calling on the Shire’s 400 active birdwatchers to renew their access tags this week to avoid being locked out on their next visit.

The Wetlands are adjacent to the Byron Sewage Treatment Plant in Byron Bay and are home to over 200 species of native Australian birds. 

Byron Shire Council’s Manager Utilities, Cameron Clark said the Wetlands remain a popular attraction for locals and visitors but that due to COVID-19 restrictions, the area had recently been closed. 

“Now restrictions have eased, the Byron Bay Wetlands is open to individual visitors and existing pass holders only,” Mr Clark said. 

“Council is now upgrading the security system at the Sewage Treatment Plant and this is the main entry point for the community to access the Wetlands.”

“We’re encouraging all existing pass holders to renew their tags now to avoid disappointment at the gate when their old tags won’t work,” he said.

There is no cost for existing users to swap over to a new tag. Renewed tags will be valid for 2 years.

Access to the Bird Hide and Interpretive Centre at the Wetlands remains closed. No access areas are marked by red and white tape. Breaches of these access points will result in re-closure of the Wetlands.

Birdwatchers can renew their tag by downloading the renewal form from the Byron Bay Wetlands page.

Once the application is filled in, birdwatchers should call the number listed and book in a time to get their new tag.

For more information please call the Council Depot Admin team on 02 6685 9300 from 8.30am to 4pm Monday to Friday.