The Keysborough Wetlands is a unique wetland sanctuary built into the heart of a residential development. It provides important habitat for many birds, fish and turtles, and a place where people can connect with nature and find peace in the middle of a high density urban area. While the wetlands sanctuary is cherished by locals and visitors alike, feeding of the birds, fish and turtles was having a significant detrimental impact on the health of the wetlands ecosystem. 

To save the wetlands, the managing authority implemented a regulatory signage program – placing numerous “Do not feed the ducks” signs around the area. The signage had no effect on stopping the problem, so the number of signs was increased. The result of this was far from positive – not only did the increased signage fail to stop people feeding the animals, the problem actually worsened.

The solution challenges the traditional “do not” signage approach – doing away with any regulatory signs or strict instructional communication completely. Instead, the approach that was adopted was to turn the wetland viewing platform into a three dimensional, visually engaging ’guide book’.

This engaging and immersive solution has been highly successful. By providing visitors with a full understanding of place and an understanding of the impact of their behaviour, the issue of feeding the animals has all but gone and the wetland has returned to a state of healthy balance. The managing authority are thrilled with the result, and plan to implement similar solutions at other problem sites.