OMER: Otways Marine Ecosystem Resilience – Ecological Baseline Pilot
The Conservation Ecology Centre (CEC), in collaboration with Otway Ocean Care (OOC) and the Eastern
Maar Aboriginal Corporation (EMAC), is launching the Otways Marine Ecosystem Resilience (OMER):
Ecological Baseline Pilot.
This is CEC’s first marine and coastal conservation project, aiming to establish
essential ecological baselines for vulnerable intertidal and subtidal ecosystems along the Otway coast—an
area recognized for its biodiversity and critical role within Victoria’s marine environment.
The Otway coast, including popular visitor destinations, is home to a range of marine ecosystems that
support diverse species and contribute to the local economy through tourism and fisheries. However,
these ecosystems face increasing pressures from climate change—such as rising sea levels, warming
waters, and extreme weather events—and human activities like trampling, illegal harvesting, and
recreational disturbances. Despite their importance, these ecosystems lack comprehensive ecological
baselines, which are vital for understanding their current state and guiding effective management
strategies.
By conducting year-round intertidal walking and subtidal snorkelling surveys, the project will assess key
ecological attributes and indicators of ecosystem health and emerging threats. These baselines will support
efforts to enhance marine ecosystem resilience, particularly in areas vulnerable to climate change and
human-induced pressures.
OMER will provide critical data to inform management decisions, guide future research, and strengthen
the conservation of these vital marine environments. The project will integrate local and Indigenous
knowledge through partnerships with OOC and EMAC, ensuring a holistic approach to conservation. It will
also foster community engagement and stewardship, setting the stage for future monitoring and
conservation efforts along the Otway coast.
This pilot project is made possible through the generous support of the Wettenhall Environment Trust.
