Reed Removal

A number of members have contacted me with concerns regarding the removal of reeds around the Pines golf course. Please be assured that we take great interest in the wildlife on the golf courses and are committed to their long term sustainable management. We recently had a visit from the wildlife officer from Gold Coast City Council who commented that the variety of reed (Cumbungi) in our lakes was non-native and was seriously threatening the water quality of our lake systems. This reed can grow in up to 2 metres of water and is extremely aggressive. This causes sediment to be trapped in the reeds, shallowing the lakes which in turn raises the water temperature. This has serious consequences in that we are at risk of algal blooms forming in the lake systems which can become toxic and be extrememly harmful to our wildlife. This did occur in one of our lakes last summer and some birds were injured as a result. To ensure that there is no re-occurrence the wildlife officer suggested that we systematically remove the Cumbungi and replace it with native reeds such as Isolipsis which can be seen adjacent to the 13th green and all through the lake between the 18th hole and the new clubhouse. This reed is non-invasive and will stabilise the lake edges to prevent erosion. Our long term plan is to continue to plant these reeds throughout both golf courses. The wildlife officer, who frequently visits the golf courses, noted that the birdlife on the golf courses seemed to be thriving and that populations were high. In the past 2 years we have seen Jabiru's and a Brolga make the golf courses home which is a great indication that we have a healthy ecosystem. The new Palms golf course includes a number of wetland areas and we are already seeing a large number of Swans and Pelicans making the lakes home.