Future of Lake Ainsworth shored up by erosion and beach nourishment work
A significant erosion control project at Lake Ainsworth, a vital freshwater lake in Lennox Head, has been completed by the NSW Government and Ballina Council.
Crown Lands, part of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, provided a $250,000 grant from its Crown Reserves Improvement Fund (CRIF) for beach repairs and protection work. Ballina Shire Council funded the balance of the project to a total cost of $380,583.
The NSW Soil Conservation Service was contracted to shore up eight beaches around the lake to protect the banks from water damage and nourish the beaches with more than 1200 tonnes of imported sand.
Timber retaining structures were installed to protect the foreshore from rising water levels during heavy rain, and hundreds of metres of turf laid to beautify the surrounding reserve. Revegetation work and protective fencing will further support the long-term sustainability of the lake’s environs.
The beach restoration project will improve access, safety, and amenity at Lake Ainsworth, ensuring locals and visitors can enjoy this local treasure for years to come.
The lake’s revitalised sandy banks will give families easy access to the water. Alternatively, they can admire the picturesque waterway from nearby grassy knolls installed as part of the project.
The project will also protect the health of the lake by reducing the amount of soil and runoff that flows into the water, which can contribute to algae growth and impact native vegetation.
Lake Ainsworth, known for its distinctive ‘tea’ coloured water, is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The lake covers about 12 hectares with its calm waters making it a hotspot for families.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities including swimming, kayaking, sailing, fishing, bushwalking, picnics, BBQs, dog walking and bird watching.
Lake Ainsworth also hosts a unique sensitive ecosystem that is home to over 100 species of birds, endangered melaleuca forest and a diverse array of aquatic plants.
Ballina Shire Council Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said:
“Lake Ainsworth is one of our region’s most treasured natural assets, and this project ensures its beauty and ecological health are preserved for generations to come. Surrounded by tea-trees, the tannin-soaked waters are said to have healing properties that will leave your hair and skin feeling refreshed. Thanks to funding from the NSW Government and Ballina Shire Council’s investment, we’ve been able to restore and protect the lake’s foreshore, improving safety, accessibility, and environmental resilience.
“The upgraded beaches, new retaining structures, and revegetation efforts will not only enhance the visitor experience but also safeguard this unique ecosystem. This vital project will help protect Lake Ainsworth and ensure it remains a favourite destination for locals and visitors alike.”
Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said:
“The NSW Government is focused on building better communities and investing in our regions and this joint project will protect the natural environment of Lake Ainsworth for everyone’s enjoyment.
“The erosion mitigation work and beach nourishment plan will not only protect the beautiful lake but make it safer and easier for locals and visitors to access the foreshore.”