Special urban wetlands projects boost Ipswich waterway health
25 January 2023
In celebration of World Wetlands Day on 2 February, Ipswich City Council is moving forward with two special ephemeral wetland projects set to improve the city’s urban waterways and native environment.
Environment and Sustainability Committee Chairperson Councillor Russell Milligan said projects at Bremervale Park in Raceview and Harry Ratnam Park in Redbank Plains will transform two urban creeks into native wildlife havens.
“Urban wetlands reduce pollutants entering our local waterways, offer habitat for native plants and animals and provide benefits to residents such as urban cooling and views of a thriving natural environment,” Cr Milligan said.
“These are unique environmental projects for Ipswich City Council as ephemeral wetlands remain as dry areas most of the time, only holding water for a short period after a rain event.
“As the water drains away it filters into the ground, removing pollutants from stormwater run-off and improving the health of our local waterways.
“The twin projects are part of council’s Stormwater Quality Offsets Scheme, which is funded by developer contributions specifically for waterway health improvement initiatives.”
Deputy Mayor and Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen said council invites residents to see the new design concept and talk to the team on site at two Ephemeral Wetland Project Information Sessions.
“We encourage our community to attend upcoming public consultation sessions to learn and have their say about these waterway improvement initiatives that are in their design phase,” Cr Madsen said.
Public information sessions:
- Sunday 5 February, 9am to 11am - Bremervale Park, Kordan Boulevard, Raceview.
- Thursday 9 February, 2pm to 6pm - Harry Ratnam Park, 65 Henty Drive, Redbank Plains.