We were thrilled to have the opportunity for a site visit to our project in Melbourne this winter! Biomatrix, alongside our esteemed partners WET Systems, embarked on a journey to inspect and maintain the city’s Floating Ecosystems. Joined by our families, we set out to delve into the intricacies of these innovative habitats, with five Floating Islands strategically situated across three key locations within the urban landscape.

Our observations unveiled a rich tapestry of biodiversity, with black swans and other birds utilising these habitats for nesting and sustenance. It was a privilege to witness firsthand the delicate balance of nature and to see the newly hatched cygnets. The Floating Ecosystems provide a safe haven from predators, such as cats and dogs, for the swans to nest and breed. In years gone by, they would nest on the riverbank, and the cygnets, and sometimes the parents, often didn’t survive.

Black swans (Cygnus atratus) are native to Australia and are iconic birds that hold cultural significance in the country. They inhabit a variety of wetland habitats including lakes, rivers, estuaries, and coastal marshes. As part of the visit the team provided additional bird ramps for the open pools so that cygnets and other baby birds can easily exit the water.

The Yarra is an estuarine Ecosystem and so it was good to see that many of the plants are thriving despite the challenging environment. Beyond the practical pursuits, our expedition provided a unique opportunity for meaningful interaction with our Australian partner, fostering deeper connections and collaboration in the realm of environmental stewardship.