Otways Marine Ecosystem Resilience (OMER)

The Otways Marine Ecosystem Resilience (OMER) initiative is establishing up-to-date ecological baselines on current threats and ecosystem conditions for intertidal and subtidal ecosystems along the Otway coast.

Stretching between Point Addis and Warrnambool, this coastline is a critical part of Victoria’s marine environment—home to diverse habitats and species, many of which underpin local economies through tourism and fisheries. Despite this, the region currently lacks up-to-date baseline data essential for understanding ecosystem health and informing effective management.

OMER is being delivered in partnership with Otway Ocean Care (OOC) and the Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation (EMAC). Together, we are conducting intertidal walking surveys and subtidal snorkelling surveys focused on key ecological indicators—such as habitat-forming kelp species—to assess current conditions and emerging threats.

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These efforts will support long-term monitoring, guide research and management priorities, and improve the resilience of vulnerable ecosystems to the impacts of climate change and human activity. By integrating Indigenous and local knowledge through partnerships with EMAC and OOC, the project takes a holistic and inclusive approach to conservation.

OMER not only fills a critical knowledge gap but also fosters community engagement and stewardship—laying the foundation for stronger marine protection along the iconic Otways coastline.

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We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Wettenhall Environment Trust for the initial pilot, and Coastcare Victoria for funding the expansion of the pilot study and the Eastern Maar Indigenous Ecological Knowledge review.