Bird watching

Power and Water is proud to manage and support public bird watching at two world-class bird watching facilities, Leanyer ponds in Darwin and Ilparpa ponds in Alice Springs. A number of ornithology books note these sites and they attract tourists from across Australia and around the world.

Leanyer and Palmerston ponds – Darwin

The Leanyer/Sanderson treatment facility is situated next to the Leanyer Swamp, while the Palmerston treatment facility is located adjacent to the tidal area of East Arm. Both locations have a tidal system with extensive mangroves and more than 240 species of birds have been recorded in the vicinity. These include Pink-eared Ducks, Wandering Whistling-ducks, Radjah Shelduck, Magpie Geese, Pied Heron and Brahminy and Whistling Kites.

Ilparpa ponds – Alice Springs

The Ilparpa Swamp and adjacent sewerage ponds is a permanent site which is home to a variety of birds and an important staging point for migratory birds on their way across Australia and overseas. Part of a protected area, it covers about 130 hectares. The bird life at the waste stabilisation ponds is spectacular, with many rare species gathering around this body of water. Bird screen, interpretive signs and purpose built bird nesting islands have also been constructed at this site.

View the birdwatchers' map and guide to the Alice Springs Waste Stabilisation Ponds.

Site access information

Due to the number of requests for access by visitors and residents who are interested in seeing the unique bird-life at the waste stabilisation ponds, Power and Water has released some simple guidelines for access to this area.

• Access to waste stabilisation ponds will be granted to members of the public on completion of an induction and indemnity form*.
• Access to the Leanyer and Palmerston ponds will be via the electrically operated gate only. A remote control device to activate the gate will be issued on completion of all required paperwork and the reciept of a $50 (Australia) fully refundable deposit.
• Vehicle access to the Leanyer and Palmerston ponds is permitted however speed rules are to be strictly adhered to and all visitors are to remain within the viewing area(s) only.
• Access to the Ilparpa ponds is only via a pedestrian gate which will remain locked at all times. Access keys for this gate will be issued to those who have completed the appropriate paperwork and paid a $30 (Australia) fully refundable deposit.
• Access to the Ilparpa ponds will be pedestrian only, (vehicle access can be arranged in special circumstances i.e. persons with disabilities).
• Blanket Indemnity forms can been arranged for bird watching organisations/associations covering all members who wish to visit the ponds.
• All persons accessing the waste stabilisation ponds area are required to carry and show photo identification should they be approached by pond security.
• Fully enclosed footwear is to be worn at all times and visitors are encouraged to wear sun protection at all times.
• Tour group operators are to provide indemnity for groups and/or individuals, provide proof of insurance and place key deposit as per the above.

*Please note 12-month indemnity and induction forms require three working days to process. Power and Water will need the following information to generate these forms:

• Full name
• Current residential and postal address
• Contact telephone numbers (home/work)
• Email address (if applicable)

Please contact Customer Service on 1800 245 092 for further information or email customerservice@powerwater.com.au.