Donations must be made before midnight, 30 June to be tax-deductible this financial year.
The world is losing its wetlands — fast.
Pictured: The beginnings of the Hunter Wetland Centre circa 1985
Over 90% of the world's wetlands have been degraded or destroyed since the Industrial Revolution. Right here in NSW, development, drought, and decades of neglect continue to push these ecosystems and the species that depend on them closer to the edge. Wetlands aren't just beautiful. They filter our water, protect us from floods, store carbon, and have sustained life in this region for thousands of years. When we lose them, we lose far more than we realise.
But here in Newcastle, something different is happening.
What was once a dumping ground is now one of the most significant urban wetlands in the world.
The Hunter Wetlands Centre sits on 45 hectares of internationally protected Ramsar-listed land just 13 kilometres from Newcastle's CBD. It is home to over 200 wildlife species including the vulnerable Freckled Duck and the beloved Magpie Goose and welcomes more than 70,000 visitors, school children and volunteers every year.
We are proudly community-owned, self-funded, and not-for-profit. No government safety net. Just a passionate community doing extraordinary work.
In 2024, we were named one of only 23 Star Wetlands Centres in the world.
That recognition belongs to everyone who has ever visited, volunteered, or donated. It belongs to you.
Where your money goes
Restoring the Wetlands
Replanting native species, controlling invasive weeds, repairing habitat damaged by storms and climate change — active, hands-on restoration work that keeps the ecosystem healthy and growing.
Keeping It Open for Everyone
We are entirely self-funded. Your support helps us keep entry affordable, maintain accessible paths and facilities, and ensure that every family, school group, and nature lover in the Hunter Region can experience what's here — regardless of their budget.
Bringing the Community Together
School holiday programs, guided birdwatching tours, community events, art exhibitions, and more. These programs connect people of all ages to the natural world — and your donation keeps them running.
WHERE YOUR MONEY GOES
Hunter Wetlands offers educational programs and guided tours, allowing visitors to gain insight into the importance of wetlands in maintaining a healthy environment.
For those seeking a more hands-on experience, the Hunter Wetlands Centre offers canoeing, walking and bike riding opportunities, allowing guests to navigate the 45ha area and witness the unique flora and fauna up close.
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From rugby fields to internationally recognised wetlands, the story of our Hunter Wetlands Centre is truly incredible. In the mid-1980s, the Hunter Wetlands Centre was the site of the old Marist Rugby Ground and over the previous century the old Hexham swamp had been systematically filled for development, rubbish dumps, railways and recreation.
Through the vision of Max Maddock, the Hunter Wetlands site has been able to transform into a vibrant ecosystem, now home to over 200 bird species, it is teeming with life. Recognised as a wetland of national and international importance, the centre has earned a growing reputation for its excellence in wetland conservation, education, and ecotourism.
This transformation was made possible by the unwavering determination of the our volunteers and local community organisations.