Rockhampton Regional Council is set to open the gates of the Fitzroy River Barrage this week to manage the accumulation of aquatic weeds that have developed following recent rainfall. The operation is scheduled to begin on March 15, 2024, and will take place over several days, ensuring the effective removal of the weeds while the river maintains a sufficient flow.
Water Councillor Edward Oram emphasized the necessity of this action, stating, “After heavy rain periods, we see a build-up of water weeds in the Fitzroy, and it’s important to flush the weed downstream while there is sufficient flow in the river.” The council plans to raise two or three barrage gates at a time to increase the velocity of the water, helping to carry the weeds downstream effectively.
The barrage release is expected to span multiple days and will be conducted exclusively during daylight hours. This strategy allows for the safe transportation of the released weeds downstream. The council has advised local boat owners to remain vigilant during this period.
“We ask boaters to exercise caution as weeds drift downstream,” Cr Oram noted, urging boaters to regularly check their moored vessels for weed build-up and to take care when launching. With the expected influx of aquatic vegetation, attention to safety and maintenance is crucial.
As the operation unfolds, the Rockhampton Regional Council aims to mitigate environmental impacts while ensuring the river remains navigable. The community’s cooperation is vital in managing this natural occurrence effectively.
