The beauty, water quality and birdlife of the Cattana Wetlands will be enhanced by the addition of ten floating islands to the waterways of the nature park.

Cairns Regional Council will have the islands that are constructed of recycled polymer and planted with wetland native species, installed early next week.

Mayor Val Schier said although Cattana Wetlands was a natural haven for wildlife, the surrounding urban development and agricultural fields placed some environmental pressures on the water quality.

“Inevitably the water in the wetlands is affected by agricultural and urban pollutants. The root systems of plants on these floating islands help to clear the water of bacteria and excess nutrients that may end up in the lakes,” Cr Schier said.

“These islands will encourage an increased number of birds to nest in the wetlands and that is a bonus for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

“Cattana is a perfect example of rehabilitation of an urban site and is a beautiful place for us all to enjoy.  The islands will prove an asset to this area and we are looking to adding more in the future.”

After water testing was carried out in June this year, Council staff has been working closely with local business Enviromart on a plan to introduce the islands on a trial basis. 

The plant life on the islands provides biofilm that metabolises nutrients from the water, aids in sediment collection and reduces odours and evaporation from the lakes.

Alan Creasey, owner of local business Enviromart, said it was the complex ecosystem living within the root system of the plants that provided the natural means of controlling excess nutrients and pollutants. 

The polymer used to create the islands was created from recycled plastic, polystyrene and carpet.

“There is a great future for these units for use in sewage waste treatment plants as the assist in the control of odour,” Mr Creasey said. 

Installation of the islands is due to be completed tomorrow.