Managing our open spaces

Council manages open spaces in our local government area including parks, gardens, road reserves and natural areas.

Management for these areas varies from sports fields and high traffic parks with high levels of service including mowing, weeding and line marking through to more natural areas with a focus on improving and preserving biodiversity.

Weed management

Council uses a combination of manual and herbicide weeding in our open spaces.  

Council reintroduced the use of glyphosate-based herbicide spraying in 2022 as part of its integrated weed management program. Currently, Council uses the glyphosate-based product Nufarm Weedmaster DUO (Roundup).

While a range of organic and inorganic alternatives are available, they have proven relatively ineffective in controlling many invasive and noxious weeds within the urban environment. For this reason, Council adopts a risk-based approach, applying glyphosate only in road reserves and open spaces where necessary.

Council’s preferred approach is to use chemical-free weed control methods wherever possible. In high-use areas such as playgrounds, maternal and child health centres, and pre-schools, only non-chemical methods are used, including slashing and hand weeding.

Council’s decision to use glyphosate is guided by advice from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA), which has approved and registered more than 500 glyphosate products, including Roundup, for safe use in Australia.

To ensure safety, all Council staff and contractors involved in weed management are fully trained in the correct use of glyphosate. A number of strict protocols are followed, including:

  • Displaying signage while spraying is in progress 
  • Avoiding spraying during unfavourable conditions 
  • Keeping detailed records of treated areas 

Horticulture maintenance

Council carries out regular mowing and horticulture maintenance across our local government area to keep parks, sportsgrounds, playgrounds, road reserves and natural areas safe, tidy and enjoyable for everyone.

Council’s horticulture maintenance program includes:

  • Lawn mowing – carried out on a schedule that varies depending on the season, weather, and how frequently an area is used.
  • Garden bed maintenance – weeding, mulching and planting to maintain healthy and attractive garden spaces.
  •  Tree and shrub maintenance – pruning and trimming to improve safety, sightlines and plant health.
  • Edges and paths – trimming grass along pathways, fences and garden beds to keep areas neat and accessible.
  • Sportsgrounds – specialised mowing and turf care to ensure safe playing surfaces.

Seasonal changes, rainfall, and growth rates may affect mowing frequencies. During peak growing seasons, some areas may appear longer between cuts, but our teams work to service the entire schedule as quickly as possible.  

If you notice a safety concern or an area needing urgent attention, please report it through My Maribyrnong.

 

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