10 June 2010
The precautionary advice against swimming and fishing at East Point, Vesteys, Mindil and Nightcliff beaches was extended to Casuarina Beach today following the detection of high levels of the E.coli bacteria in sea water sampling results received late today.The Department of Health and Families today confirmed as a precautionary measure that the Casuarina Beach and other west coast beaches will remain closed to swimming and fishing over the long weekend.
Director of Environmental Health Xavier Schobben said DHF is working with interstate experts, along with other NTG agencies, to determine the source of the E.coli.
"Every effort is being undertaken to isolate the source or sources of the contamination," Mr Schobben said.
"Further tests taken by NTG agencies are being analysed. Should the results indicate a low risk to human health, then a decision may be made next week to lift the precautionary advice.
"We are continuing to obtain advice from both local and national water quality experts who have agreed that the anomalous results received are an unusual event and more likely to be environmentally-related than the result of faecal pollution."
Anyone who has seawater quality concerns can contact DHF Environmental Health hotline during business hours on toll free 1800 095 646 or mobile 0458 856 087.
Media please note: No more results from water sampling will be received until after the long weekend.
Media inquiries: Dale Webster 0401 116 203
