National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) area manager, Marty Linehan, said Waterbird Lagoon, part of the GwydirWetlands SCA is opening to the public.

“There is a new bird hide on site, providing an ideal vantage point for bird watchers,” Mr Linehan said.

“In times of drought the wetlands are important refuge areas for wildlife. Everyone is encouraged to take the opportunity to visit the wetlands.

“You can either stay dry in the bird hide, bring a kayak, or come prepared to wade in the lagoon.

“Since records began in the 1920s at least 75 waterbird species have been recorded in the Gwydir Wetlands including colonies of straw-necked ibis, intermediate egrets, glossy ibis and nankeen night-herons, said Mr Linehan.

The Gwydir Wetlands lies on the Gwydir River floodplain 60 km west of Moree. Part of it is now under public management as the Gwydir Wetlands State Conservation Area.

Access is available from daylight to dusk during dry weather. No overnight camping is permitted on the State Conservation Area, however there are facilities close by at a local property called ‘Boyanga South’.

There are also some remote cameras located on ‘Waterbird lagoon’ which people can check the wetland remotely atwww.rmcam.com.au. The username is Gwydir Waterbirds and password 1234.

For current road and water level conditions please contact either the Moree Visitor Information Centre 6757 3350, Narrabri National Parks and Wildlife Service office 6792 7300, or ‘Boyanga South’ 6753 3252.

For more information on the Gwydir Wetlands State Conservation Area visit www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au