AquaZone manager Ray Smith told The Standard yesterday the invasive plant would be taken out during the next few weeks.

It was brought to the city council’s attention this week by a Warrnambool family who said the weed was so bad people could no longer walk barefooted on the grass.

“This is a disgrace for our fine city and not at all welcoming for our visitors,” the family said in a letter to the council.

“I have heard non-local visitors say the facility is wonderful, but the weeds are deplorable.

“I have tried to use a picnic rug, but alas had to throw it out as the rug was completely covered in the bindi seeds, and there was no way I was going to take them home to invade my lawn. 

“A program of eradication at the correct time of year is all that is needed to fix this problem.”

Mr Smith said: “We apologise for any inconvenience its causing and thank the AquaZone customer for making us aware of the problem.”

pcollins@fairfaxmedia.com.au