Google Maps is a haven for conspiracy theorists locating hidden civilisations but it also unearths the occasional suburban surprise. The sort of place that's likely been in a locale you know well forever but somehow escaped your attention.
Given the dearth of lakes near Brisbane, the discovery of Sovereign Waters Lake provided such a surprise on a recent balmy Queensland afternoon. Could it be the easily accessible freshwater swimming hole of our overheated imaginations?
Well, the short answer is no. The knocked-over sign (c'mon council) that marks the lake immediately destroys any delusions of aquatic grandeur. It's a lake for '
secondary contact recreation' purposes only.
The neglected sign sums up what this actually means pretty well but I want to know more and head back to the font of all knowledge - Google. Turns out there's a bit going on at Sovereign Waters Lake.
Essentially, the lake was constructed as part of a treatment system designed to maintain the health of the wetlands around Birkdale Rd. Its water comes from both Moreton Bay and freshwater fed from a stormwater catchment. Without digging too deep into the hydrology involved, Sovereign Waters Lake is an intentional combination of salt and fresh water with environmental conservation being the objective, rather than primary recreational pursuits.
Unfortunately, this means swimming is a no-go but the lake does provide a great spot to try out your kayak, canoe or stand-up paddle board. There are two entry ramps (Helena St & Alan Day Dr) and enough space to give your non-powered marine craft a decent test drive. Fishing is permitted too and the lake appeals as a safe and easily accessible place to teach the kids to bait and launch a hook.
While salubrious-looking homes back onto much of the lake and prevent circumnavigation, other walking paths in the immediate vicinity provide another option. Birdlife is prevalent on the Moreton Bay side of the lake and you may even be lucky enough to spot (or hear) one of the resident Whistling Kites.
Wellington Point has plenty more to offer too. Make a day of it and combine a visit to Sovereign Waters Lake with some of the other family-friendly activities and places nearby (E.g.
King Island,
Geoff Skinner Wetlands Reserve, the restaurants of Main Rd, etc).
