Situation
The former Lysterfield Gun Club site, historically used as a clay target shooting range and an Olympic event site, faces serious environmental challenges. Decades of shooting activities have resulted in soil contamination, particularly with lead and other heavy metals. Simultaneously, invasive species such as woody weeds and non-native shrubs have spread throughout the remnant woodlands, outcompeting native vegetation. This invasion has disrupted habitat structures, reduced biodiversity, and weakened the ecosystem's ability to support local wildlife.
In response to these challenges, DEECA (Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action), alongside environmental experts and local authorities, launched a remediation and restoration initiative in 2020. In partnership with DEECA and land contamination specialists, this ongoing effort addresses both the contamination and the invasive species problem. The plan includes soil remediation to reduce toxic metal levels and the removal of invasive plants to restore native ecosystems. By replanting native species and improving habitat quality, the ongoing goal is to rehabilitate the area's woodlands and ensure long-term ecological resilience.
(Before works)
Before works began the grounds were overrun with invasive shurbs and trees, restricting the growth of natives.
The Brief
In partnership with DEECA (Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action) and land contamination contractors, we have been engaged to implement an invasive species control program to control the invasive shrubs and trees that have overrun the remnant woodland site. The priority is to protect and preserve the remnant vegetation and create an environment for ecological recovery.
Objectives
- Land clearing of overrun invasive shrubs whilst protecting the remnant woodlands.
- Weed control; Cut and paint woody weeds, large scale blackberry and broom spray.
- Assist contamination contractors to access remote areas to install groundwater monitoring systems.
(After Works)
Invasive plants were carefully removed, whilst protecting critical native trees and shrubs.
Solution
Lead accumulation from years of target practice at the gun club.
Since 2020, over 20 skilled crew members have worked to improve the former Lysterfield Gun Club site using a multi-faceted land management approach. The focus has been to control invasive vegetation on the contaminated land using machinery, manual sawing, and brush cutting. Strategic selective cutting and painting has helped to protect native Eucalypts and Acacias, allowing native vegetation to thrive while controlling the spread of invasive species. In areas with dense vegetation and contamination, a forestry mulcher has been used effectively to clear land, preparing it for soil remediation.
By 2023, due to the combined efforts of Envirotechniques and land contamination specialists, 1500 cubic metres of contaminated soil was carefully removed and transported to a processing facility. Ongoing path clearing, brush cutting, and weed control have allowed experts to build groundwater wells and to conduct long-term monitoring. Comprehensive mapping and documentation have ensured that progress is tracked, enabling informed decision-making and adaptive management. Coordination with other land remediation contractors has maximised efficiency and effectiveness, with strict safety protocols followed in contaminated areas and trained crews deployed at each stage.
These sustainable land management practices, including targeted invasive species removal and habitat restoration, have already resulted in rejuvenation of the woodlands and promotion of biodiversity. The project remains ongoing, reflecting a commitment to ensuring the long-term health and resilience of this ecosystem.