The one-kilometre shared path, which includes a bridge over Skeleton Creek, will give pedestrians and cyclists access to the RAMSAR-listed Cheetham Wetlands in the Point Cook Coastal Park.

It was unveiled last Tuesday as the latest stage in a long-term project that will eventually stretch to Geelong.

Environment Minister Gavin Jennings hailed the development as a vital link to an environmental asset.

"The new section of trail and bridge features an innovative animal exclusion fence spec-

ifically designed to protect Cheetham Wetlands' abundant bird life from domestic and feral animals.

"This is one of the first times this specially designed fencing has been used."

Altona MP Jill Hennessy said the trail would provide valuable recreation opportunities for residents. "This important project will provide significant benefit to the local community and serve to protect this wonderful natural environment and the flora and fauna it nourishes."

The Port Philip Bay and Westernport Catchment Management Authority welcomed the trail, but urged users to respect local flora and fauna.

Biodiversity coordinator Mark Smith said protecting the wetlands from human impact was a difficult task.

"Cheetham sits right in the middle of some significant housing estates, is fringed by the Point Cook Marine Sanctuary and is adjacent to some beautiful recreation areas.

"The challenge is to ensure that while people have the opportunity to view this amazing wetland, that these visitors don't threaten the safe haven for these birds."

Allan Williams of the Bay West Bicycle Users Group

attended the opening to test out the path. "I was very impressed with it. It looks really smart and has a very smooth surface, like riding on the road. The view is spectacular; you can see the city over the wetlands."

He said he had already

noticed the trail getting busier. Stretching from Sanctuary Lakes to the Point Cook RAAF base, the Cheetham Wetlands is a breeding haven for thousands of migratory birds from as far as Siberia and Japan.