everywhere I go, it seems they put the bird hide as far away from the birds as possible
The birds swim right up close to the hide and platypus have burrows immediately under the bank at the site. The hide is part of the Arboretum complex, has wheelchair access and a road next to it for bus groups and the elderly.
It could be better placed specifically for photographers, but this is a hide as much for educational purposes (with info inside) than perhaps being in the most ideal location.
The hides at the Jerrabomberra Wetlands in Canberra have brush fencing extending either side of the hide so the birds don't see people entering them. I thought I had a picture of them but couldn't find it.
A search of 'Jerrabomberra Wetlands hides photos' brings some up
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