HAMILTON residents have raised concerns over the usability of Lake Hamilton in recent weeks, with reports of a foul odour coming from the lake and excessive reeds wreaking havoc with jet ski motors.

One resident told The Spectator that the problem was so bad they were forced to go elsewhere to enjoy powered vessel water sports, but the Southern Grampians Shire Council said there was no cause for concern.

The shire’s environmental health coordinator, Pauline Porter said they regularly monitored water quality. 

“Our environmental health team conduct regular monitoring of the Lake for water quality, with increased frequency during summer,” she said.

“Blue-Green Algae has been an issue for us in the past, and while recent tests do not show evidence of algae at present, we’ll continue to monitor the lake as the weather warms up.”

The shire’s regulatory services coordinator, Sherie Bain said while the shire does have a reed maintenance schedule, it may require revision.

“Council conducts reed harvesting at Lake Hamilton annually in April/May each year - the specialised contractor is highly sought after across the eastern states, and as such, we are limited in when we are able to have him come to Hamilton,” she said.

“We may be able to review the timing of this annual work better to meet the needs of the lake user groups, however, this will always be subject to the availability of the contractor.”