On this page Content components We carry out a weed management program to:maintain the presentation of our public spaces like parks, reserves, sportsgrounds and streetscapesensure the surfaces at these locations are safe for people using themmanage and protect our biodiversity.Weed management methodsWe use a range of methods to manage weeds across our parks, gardens and reserves depending on the location and types of weeds present.We rely on a combination of mechanical and chemical methods to reduce weed growth in our parks, sportsgrounds, open spaces and garden beds.We use herbicides (including spot treatments) in areas such as:garden bedspathwaysaround trees and signpostsalong fencesbluestone kerbs, channels and lanewaysbiodiversity zonesparkssportsgroundsFreeway Golf Course.We use mechanical methods (like steaming or hand weeding) in areas such as:playgroundschildcare centreswetlandssensitive biodiversity zonesother areas where herbicide use is not recommended.Use of herbicidesWe use targeted spraying to control weeds in these large or hard-to-reach areas. Trained contractors apply herbicide directly to the weeds to reduce the amount of chemical used. Glyphosate is the main product used, but we also trial organic and plant-based options where suitable. Spraying only happens in safe weather conditions and follows strict safety rulesWe always follow best practice and apply the product in line with the product and label guidelines to ensure our community and staff are safe.All herbicides we use are considered safe when used according to their guidelines and are regulated by the Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Act 1994.Minimising exposureWe minimise exposure to our community and staff by:informing our community about spraying programs before and during herbicide application by placing signage near the spray sitesproviding a letter box drop to properties in the immediate vicinity of the spraying area for sportsgrounds and large reserveswearing appropriate personal protective equipment during preparation and applicationapplying the product in accordance with the product’s safety data sheetensuring a second staff member is present when spraying larger sportsground areas to advise the publicensuring pressurised spraying (like knapsack spraying) occurs when wind speed is between 3 and 15km/h for most spraying operationsavoiding pressurised spraying (like knapsack spraying) when it’s likely to rain, is raining, or when areas are wetmaintaining accurate records of where herbicide has been applied. ‘No Glyphosate’ trial along Gardiners CreekThe trial ran from December 2022 to April 2025 and tested alternative ways to manage weeds without glyphosate. You can read more in our news article about the end of the trial.Moving forward, Council will continue a weed management approach that reduces herbicide use where possible.
