POND REPORT

CASE STUDY

How BBA’s Beneficial Bacteria Solution Helped Sydney Pond Services Win a Long-Term Water Maintenance Contract

When 10 kilograms of BBA PurePond Powder beneficial bacteria were introduced into the newly constructed biofiltration system of the Upper Lagoon, no one expected the results to be so remarkable. After 20 years of persistent turbidity, the lagoon water turned crystal clear—leaving a lasting impression on everyone involved. – Director, Tunji Olatundun

THE CHALLENGE

Despite the presence of fish, massive filtration systems, and extensive UV treatment, the residential water feature remained persistently turbid. A major remediation project in 2016–2017 redesigned gardens and courtyards with large water installations to enhance the estate’s visual and ecological appeal. However, water clarity issues continued—posing a significant challenge for long-term pond management.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT US

0412050986
office@sydneypondservices.com.au

http://www.sydneypondservices.com.au

BBA Solutions

0421 659 176

info@bbabio.com.au

http://www.bbabio.com.au

About us

PROJECT BACKGROUND

Wondakiah Estate is one of Sydney’s premier residential developments, known for its resort-like environment, extensive green spaces, and harbour-side location. It was developed on the site of the former North Shore Gas Works and transformed into a luxurious enclave of 10 residential buildings set within eight hectares of manicured gardens.

INTRODUCTION

Wondakiah’s water features located around the estate, including two waterfalls of 20 and 15 metres in height, two lagoons（spans approximately 680 square metres), rapids and numerous other smaller water features. In 2016, the Largoon, a central water feature restored to enhance both aesthetics and ecological balance. To support and maintenance the water quality, numerous of filter and UV systems are installed onsite to eliminate harmful microorganisms and suppress algae growth

3 x Matala UVC, model SS-L 300W
3 x Waterco media filters model S series with airflow blower capable of working at 250kpa.

Satellite imagery of the Upper and Lower Lagoons.

Limitations of the Current Water Management Approach

Limited Effectiveness of UV Treatment Alone: Ineffective against filamentous or surface-attached algae; cannot fully resolve algal blooms or persistent “green water” issues on its own.
No Impact on Organic Matter or Nutrient Load: UV doesn’t remove dead biomass or excess nutrients, leading to ammonia and BOD build-up.
Insufficient Biological Filtration: The current filtration system lacks a robust
population of beneficial bacteria necessary for biological filtration to process waste effectively.
Inadequate Water Circulation and Historical Maintenance Neglect : Longterm lack of maintenance has resulted in poor circulation and degraded water quality.

THE SOLUTION

Step 1: Perform Regular Backwashing of the Mechanical Filter: Remove accumulated debris and organic load from the filtration system to maintain optimal flow and efficiency.
Step 2: Construct and Install a Biofilter System: Establish stable biological filtration unit to foster beneficial bacteria colonization and continuous nutrient cycling.
Step 3: Enhance Water Circulation and Aeration: Increase dissolved oxygen (DO) levels and eliminate stagnant zones to support aerobic microbial activity.
Step 4: Apply BBA’s High-Concentration Powder Bacteria: Rapidly seed the system with targeted probiotic strains to restore biological balance and accelerate water improvement.

10kg BBA Powder bacteria was introduced into the newly constructed biofilter, located in the upper lagoon.

“For the past 20 years, I looked out from my balcony and saw only murky water. Now, I can finally see the crystal-clear pond bottom and the beautiful koi swimming gracefully. It‘s a miracle,well done! ” -Local resident

Results

Before

2 weeks later

4 weeks later

Note: In fact, the water had already become noticeably clearer just two weeks after applying BBA’s PurePond Powder beneficial bacteria. However, due to continuous rainy weather in Sydney throughout May 2025, we didn’t have the opportunity to take photos on a sunny day. What’s remarkable is that this result came from just a single standard dose of bacteria!

BEFORE

AFTER

Summary

Mechanical filtration is only half the story of filtering a water body .The system needs to be able to provide a conducive environment for biological

Organism with proper aeration and circulation especially if it gets lots of nutrient loads. The result, bacteria are able to do their job removing and keeping the nutrient level down giving us a clear and stable environment.