Lillydale Lake drawdown start date confirmed

Yarra Ranges Council and Melbourne Water will start draining Lillydale Lake on Tuesday 1 May in the effort to rid the lake of an invasive weed.

The drawdown process will require emptying the lake over the winter to kill the weed, Egeria densa.

The lake is expected to be refilled in September with managed flows from the Olinda Creek and spring rainfall.

Yarra Ranges Mayor Graham Warren said the long term benefit to the lake’s health will outweigh the brief inconvenience.

“Temporarily draining the lake will ensure improved water safety, basic recreation, including sailing and canoeing, and a much better quality of life for birds, fish and other local wildlife. It will also improve the overall health and usability of the lake and parkland.”

Council will also take the opportunity to inspect and carry out maintenance on boardwalks, shorelines and the sand area to make sure it was in great condition for summer. A change in birdlife during the drawdown period is expected to last about three months.

This year’s drawdown has been planned in conjunction with lake user groups and Melbourne Water to cause as minimal impact as possible.

“Now that the drawdown timeline is looking more certain, we should all have a good idea as to when the lake can be fully enjoyed by residents, groups and visitors.”