City adds to aqua fleet

A NEW City reed-cutter is in action, aiming to keep Lake Wendouree’s underwater growth controlled and ever-ready for sporting and community use.

The aquatic plant harvester, number 458119, has the capacity to gather and hold three times more reeds in one load than a cutter which has been operational on the Lake since 2012.

The machine has been on the water for the last two weeks and is expected to be more time efficient, especially during the unloading process, due to its larger size.

City of Ballarat interim CEO Janet Dore said the $720,000 addition to the municipality’s aqua fleet will ensure the Lake remains in “peak condition” throughout all seasons.

“Lake Wendouree plays an important role in the life of our city,” she said.

“With the new harvester, we now have the flexibility and the confidence to address issues straight away, without having to rely on external contractors.

“The two weed harvesters will improve the ecology of the lake and will ensure it continues to play host to a hive of activity and water sports, including rowing, kayaking, sailing and fishing.”

The cutter was designed by Aurora Marine Design in Coomera, Queensland and manufactured by PFG Group in Hobart, Tasmania.

A City of Ballarat statement said local businesses were employed, where possible, by PFG Group during the construction period, and the harvester was bought via a public tender process.

About 40,000 cubic metres of weeds are taken out of Lake Wendouree annually.

The first Rowing Victoria regatta post-pandemic lockdown was held on the Lake last Saturday, welcoming regional schools into a COVID-safe racing environment.