Melbourne Water is creating a shellfish reef on the Mornington Peninsula. 

A newly established shellfish reef, located between Mornington and Mount Eliza in the Mornington Peninsula, has been built to preserve marine life and water quality. 

Managed by Melbourne Water and funded by the Australian Government's Fisheries Habitat Restoration Project, the Port Phillip Community Shellfish Reef project is breathing life into this vital marine habitat using recycled shell substrate.

Shellfish reefs, among the most endangered marine habitats globally, play a pivotal role in enhancing fish communities and populations. 

Andrew Morrison, Senior Asset Planner at Melbourne Water, stressed the significance of this initiative, saying; “Shellfish reefs were once widespread across Port Phillip Bay, but since settlement, we've probably lost in excess of 95 per cent of them, making the Port Phillip Community Shellfish Reef project a critical one”.

To bolster the shellfish reef's foundation, discarded shells from the restaurant industry are now being recycled, diverting them from landfills and returning them to Port Phillip Bay. 

This recycling effort forms the cornerstone of shellfish reef colonisation, contributing to the growth and improvement of native fish populations.

The establishment of the shellfish reef is a collaborative effort, receiving support from OzFish and local recreational fishers. 

These local fishers actively engaged in educational and training events, gaining a deep understanding of the project's importance and actively contributing to its success. 

According to Morrison, involving recreational fishers in the restoration of these vital ecosystems ensures long-term stewardship and supports a sustainable recreational fishing industry.

Melbourne Water, a catchment management authority (CMA), says it is committed to delivering land, water, and biodiversity programs that protect the environment and promote thriving communities in the Port Phillip and Westernport catchments.