Council weeding out invasive species in Yea

By Contributed

Mar 18, 2025

Murrindindi Shire Council have commenced re-vegetation works along Boundary’s Creek’s eastern side in an effort to remove noxious, woody weeds. Photo by Contributed

Vegetation works have begun along the eastern side of Boundary Creek in Yea.

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The works build on the removal of woody weeds on the western side of the creek, completed by Murrindindi Shire Council in 2024.

Council is targeting large, invasive weeds such as Hawthorn, Privet, Desert Ash and Cherry Plum to reduce fuel loads, lower fire risk and revitalise the creek's natural ecosystem.

Re-vegetation efforts to occur in winter are set to enhance biodiversity, create habitats for native fauna, and reinforce creek banks against erosion, ensuring long-term environmental health.

Works at the creek are set to be ongoing over the next several years, which will include regular monitoring to address regrowth and emerging weed threats, given the role of floodwaters in spreading invasive species.

The works are jointly funded by the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements and CFA’s Vegetation Management Grant using Safer Together project funding.

Floods, like those in October 2022, have had a lasting impact on local waterways, accelerating the spread of invasive weeds which pose threats to biodiversity, farming and economic stability.

Residents are encouraged by council to actively manage weeds on their properties, as invasive species can contribute to millions of dollars in lost productivity and environmental damage annually.

Landowners have legal responsibilities, under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994, to control noxious weeds on their properties.

Many environmental weeds spread rapidly and displace desirable vegetation if left unchecked.

“Managing invasive species is a shared responsibility,” Murrindindi Shire Councillor Sue Carpenter said.

“Council is taking action along Boundary Creek, and community involvement is essential in reducing the spread of these weeds across our region.

“Together, we can protect our environment and support local biodiversity.”

Council encourages residents of Murrindindi Shire to work together to reduce the impact of invasive weeds, and to help preserve the local environment for future generations.

For more information, residents can contact council on 5772 0333.