New weed harvester starts work at Lake Wendouree

The addition of a new aquatic plant harvester will help ensure Lake Wendouree is in prime condition for events and community use year-round.

The new harvester, delivered to the lake last week, will carry approximately three times more material than the current weed harvester, which has been in operation since 2012.

Together, the two harvesters will help collect the 40,000 cubic meters of weed removed from the lake each year.

The new machine’s larger capacity will reduce the amount of travel time currently required to unload the weeds at the shore.

The harvester was purchased through a public tender process and is designed by Aurora Marine Design in Queensland. The harvester was built by PFG Group in Tasmania, who employed local Ballarat businesses during the build where possible. 

City of Ballarat Chief Executive Officer Janet Dore says the new machine will help the City of Ballarat manage the lake with greater efficiency and make sure it remains in peak condition throughout the year.

“Lake Wendouree plays an important role in the life of our city. 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 new harvester cost $720,000 plus GST and was awarded through a public tender process.