The lake has once again become the focus of community action, with residents launching a fresh petition calling for long-term solutions to persistent water quality issues.
Read: $1M Allocated to Improve Water Quality, Address Ibis Infestation in Forest Lake
Local florist Debra Page has submitted a petition through Brisbane’s official e-petitions platform, requesting the establishment of a dedicated taskforce and formal action plan to address the lake’s ongoing challenges. As of January 21, the petition has attracted 233 signatures and will remain open until April 2026.
The petition marks the latest chapter in a more than decade-long effort by residents to see meaningful improvements to the lake’s condition. In 2018, a Change.org petition gathered over 3,000 signatures, leading to the formation of the Lake Action Group.
“For more than a decade, residents of Forest Lake have been frustrated with the poor condition of the Lake,” the current petition states, emphasising that the waterway serves as “the centrepiece of our suburb” and that “residents need a long term solution.”
The petition outlines specific requests for council action, including maintenance scheduled according to seasonal changes, implementation of research-backed practices proven successful in similar waterways, continued water testing, pest species management, and wildlife protection. Central to the request is the formation of an ongoing taskforce bringing together local community members, council representatives, universities and environmental experts to develop an agreed, written, formal action plan.
Cr Charles Strunk, who represents the Forest Lake Ward, has acknowledged the community’s concerns whilst outlining current council initiatives. In a public statement, he described the complexity of managing the lake’s ecosystem.
“The lake is a complex catchment,” Cr Strunk said. “Things like stormwater run-off, garden fertilisers and bird droppings can build up in the water, and combined with Brisbane’s hot weather, can lead to algae growth and blue-green algae blooms.”
According to Cr Strunk’s update, Brisbane has partnered with Monash University to conduct a 12-month trial of Diatomix, a natural treatment designed to boost beneficial algae whilst limiting harmful varieties. The treatment is part of the city’s approach to addressing algae issues in the lake.
Brisbane’s officials also highlighted the role residents can play in protecting the lake’s water quality. Educational campaigns have emphasised that stormwater runoff carries pollutants including pet waste, leaves, fertilisers, motor oil, detergents and rubbish directly into waterways. The message “When it rains, it drains and it has to go somewhere” underscores the connection between everyday activities and lake health.
The petition reflects residents’ desire for measures that go beyond current initiatives. Whilst the Diatomix trial represents one approach, the community is calling for a more comprehensive, multi-faceted strategy backed by formal commitments and regular accountability.
Read: BCC Continues to Implement Long-term Solutions to Improve Water Quality in Forest Lake
The petition emphasises the lake’s role as “the centrepiece of our suburb” and its importance to local residents. The gap between community expectations and the pace of change remains a point of tension. Residents have demonstrated persistence in advocating for their lake, returning to the issue repeatedly over more than a decade.
As the petition period continues through early April, both council and community await the outcome of this latest effort alongside results from the Diatomix trial. With results from the Monash University Diatomix trial expected later this year, 2026 may prove to be a pivotal year in determining the lake’s future.
The petition remains open for signatures on Brisbane’s e-petitions website until 9 April 2026.
Published 21-January-2026
