7 September 2010
Precautionary advice against swimming at Nightcliff and Vesteys Beaches has been issued today after routine sea water sampling showed high counts of E.coli and enterococci bacteria.It is believed the heavy rainfall experienced over the weekend has resulted in an extensive flush of the foreshore areas and stormwater system and increased bacterial levels in the receiving water. This is consistent with the experience in other jurisdictions where precautionary advice against swimming is commonly issued following rainfall events.
Recent specialised testing indicated that the likely cause of foreshore bacteria was faecal waste from dogs, birds and feral animals, which can reach the beach areas via tidal creeks and stormwater drains, particularly after rainfall events.
Signs notifying the public of the closure have been erected at beach access points.
Further sampling at both beaches will be undertaken tomorrow to confirm bacterial levels.
The Department of Health and Families is continuing to regularly monitor sea water quality around the city's beaches the public will be kept informed of any changes to the situation.
The status of Darwin beaches can be viewed on the DHF website at:
http://www.health.nt.gov.au/Environmental_Health/Beach_Water_Quality/index.aspx
Latest test results are also available on this site.
Anyone who has concerns about beach water quality can contact DHF Environmental Health hotline during business hours on toll free 1800 095 646.
Media inquiries: Dale Webster 0401 116 203
