Gippsland › Latest news › Wellington Local News
Amphibious harvester arrives in Wellington Shire to help clean up weed problem in lakes
A weed-eater that would help clean up the weed-causing problems at the lakes.
It's almost five metres long, weighs more than a tonne, can move about on land, swamps and water, and is very hungry for weeds. Meet the Mobitrac amphibious harvester, a 'weed eater' which arrived in Wellington Shire this week to help clean up a big weed problem in the Port of Sale waterways.
A prolific build-up of weed, particularly in recent weeks, is making it difficult for some vessels to navigate the water
Taking lead on the issue
Wellington Shire Council Mayor Ian Bye said Council had contracted the amphibious harvester following requests from Port of Sale users to remove the weed. "Unfortunately the weed gets caught up in rowers' oars and boat motors, which can cause damage. It's been a particularly bad period for weed growth in the waterways in that area, so the harvester is spending the week 'eating' the weed to clear it up for users." Cr Bye said.
Wellington Shire Council has taken the lead on the issue, working with the Catchment Management Authority and Gippsland Ports. Council made the decision to contract the Mobitrac in an attempt to make the Port more accessible for users.
Giving the weed-eater its name
The amphibious harvester machine is able to cut and harvest aquatic weeds which are floating or submerged, as well as weeds growing on land that are encroaching on waterways. The weed is naturally occurring, and the issue of excess growth will potentially return in the future due to environmental conditions.
Council is currently running a competition online to give the 'weed eater' a Wellington-specific name. Visit the Wellington Shire Council Facebook page for more details.
Pictures from Wellington Shire Council Facebook page.
Source: www.gippsland.com
Published by: news@gippsland.com
Gippsland Water offers face-to-face bill help at pop-up sessions across Latrobe, Baw Baw and Wellington
Martin Cameron slams Allan government's ongoing neglect of Hazelwood North CFA volunteers and urgent station upgrades
Southern Rural Water announces safer bridge boosting Clydebank access and safety with modern standards by November
'Amp It Up' youth conference empowers East Gippsland students with inspiration and resilience on 23 July 2025
Baw Baw Shire Council seeks community feedback on five key strategic plans to guide council's next four years by 3 August 2025
Darren Chester warns Labor's new car tax will hit Gippsland families, hikes cost of utes, SUVs, four-wheel-drives, vehicles
Darren Chester, RSL unite to support Gippsland Veterans, challenge negative myths, highlight service strengths and opportunities
Forge Theatre ignites East Gippsland with comedy, music, storytelling and bold performances this winter season
Gippsland Water summer internship is now open, offering students practical experience from November 2025 to February 2026
