Calls to clean Pemulwuy lake at Driftway Reserve

It’s the kind of red sea no one wants to visit as algae takes over a western Sydney lake, causing a pungent smell and threatening wildlife.

Azolla has drifted into the lake in Driftway Reserve at Pemulwuy.

Pemulwuy residents fed up with the decaying state of their suburb’s lake are calling for action to restore it as a healthy habitat for fauna and recreation spot for the community.

A petition on change.org has kicked off, demanding the council clean the lake more than “every few years” when the Azolla algae takes over and kills fish.

“The birds are barely around,’’ the petition reads.

“Fish are floating dead in the algae. Sydney Water frequently puts up signs warning of sewage run off. Poisonous weeds often overwhelm the lookout and grassy areas.’’

Azolla, also known as a freshwater fern, can be a food source for fish but can also deprive them of oxygen.

Azolla has blanketed the lake at Driftway Reserve.

Residents have said the council cannot get a contractor to visit the site for another two or three months.

Vimmi Vakkar said the water’s condition had deteriorated in recent years.

“Since the last few years the beauty of the lake has turned into (an) eyesore,’’ the petition statement read.

“The stink around the lake, dead birds and fish are really cause (for) concern for residents living around the area.’’

A Cumberland Council spokeswoman said it was responding to residents’ concerns about the lake’s condition.

“As a result of the recent warm weather coupled with high amounts of rainfall, the Azolla species, which is red in appearance, is present in parts of the lake,’’ she said.

“Council is working with contractors to remove and treat the Azolla to ensure it does not negatively impact the native wildlife.’’

The spokeswoman said the council placed “great importance” on protecting, conserving and improving our natural environment and ecosystems.

“Following recent weather events, council crews are actively reviewing and maintaining open spaces, lakes and waterways,’’ she said.

“This includes litter removal, the cleaning of stormwater pits and a street sweeping program.”

A Sydney Water spokeswoman said it was unaware of any issues with wastewater overflows at Driftway Reserve.

“The incidence of wastewater discharges to the lake is very low,’’ she said.

“However, if an overflow occurs, the affected area is inspected, warning signs are placed around the site to inform the public and, restoration and repairs to the pipes are carried out to prevent a recurrence.’’