Authorities and developers in Springfield Lakes are continuing efforts to manage the invasive salvinia weed across local water bodies following significant but incomplete removal.
Weed Infestation Prompts Intervention
Salvinia, a fast-growing aquatic weed, has become a persistent issue in Springfield Lakes, prompting joint action from Ipswich City Council and Stockland. In early 2025, residents reported one of the worst outbreaks seen in decades, with large sections of the lakes covered in dense mats of the weed. Long-term locals expressed concern over environmental impacts and increasing mosquito activity due to stagnant water.
Initial Measures and Removal Efforts
Early mechanical removal efforts commenced in February 2025 after Stockland acknowledged the severity of the infestation. Mechanical harvesting and hand removal were prioritised, alongside weekly spray treatments. By April 2025, around 99 percent of the weed was reportedly cleared from the main lakes, with visual improvements seen at Spring Lake.
A trial involving a ‘spider excavator’ was later conducted at a hard-to-reach pond on Viewpoint Drive. This specialised machine was used in combination with aquatic weed booms to clear the terrain and remove weed clusters in areas previously inaccessible to standard equipment.
Persistent Regrowth at Regatta Lake
Despite earlier clearance, salvinia regrowth was observed in mid-April at Regatta Lake. Community group Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc. documented the resurgence, noting coverage had returned to approximately 25 percent of the area. The weed was reported to be spreading along Lakeside Avenue and beyond, forming dense mats even in cooler weather.
Authorities were notified, including Ipswich City Council, Stockland Springfield Rise, Biosecurity Queensland, and local representatives. The weed’s ability to regrow from residual fragments and its movement through wind and rain-fed inflows has complicated eradication efforts.
Ongoing Strategy and Alternatives
In response to the recurring outbreak, local authorities have reinstated regular spraying programs and are continuing with mechanical and manual removal where needed. Experts indicate that salvinia thrives in nutrient-rich, slow-moving water, and complete removal may be unrealistic due to inflows from connected catchments.
Biological control and upstream monitoring have been identified as necessary components of long-term containment, alongside public reporting to Biosecurity Queensland. Community members have been encouraged to remain vigilant and report any sightings.
Community Concerns and Maintenance Issues
Beyond the weed infestation, residents have also raised broader concerns about general maintenance in the area, including overgrown walkways and deteriorating vegetation near the lakes. Some suggested that earlier equipment may have unintentionally contributed to the weed’s spread by transferring fragments between sites.
Despite these challenges, local groups remain engaged in monitoring efforts, and there is continued cooperation between the council, Stockland, and environmental organisations.
Outlook: Continued Vigilance Needed
Authorities have stated that while progress has been made in Springfield Lakes, complete eradication of salvinia remains unlikely. The focus has shifted to long-term containment through regular treatment, mechanical removal, and environmental monitoring. Efforts are expected to continue as the situation evolves, with collaboration remaining central to managing the local waterways.
Published 25-June-2025