17 June 2010
The Department of Health and Families (DHF) has lifted the Precautionary Advice for swimming at East Point, Nightcliff and Casuarina beaches following extensive testing by DHF and other agencies showing that E.coli levels in the sea water in these areas have significantly reduced and are now within guideline values that indicate a low public health risk.Precautionary advice in relation to not consuming shellfish collected from shallow waters at all beaches remains in place until test results from samples taken today are returned early next week.
DHF is awaiting on test results from the Dinah Beach-Frances Bay area.
However, Mindil and Vesteys beaches remain closed, with test results still indicating levels of E.coli above public health safety guidelines.
Considerable quantities of the marine blue green algae Lyngbya majuscula have again been washed onto the foreshore at Vesteys Beach and in the Fannie Bay area. Small quantities of the algae are still present in the water.
The Department of Construction and Infrastructure will be clearing the algal mat on the foreshore.
DHF reminds the public that direct contact with the algae should be avoided as it can cause skin, eye and respiratory irritation. If contact does occur it is recommended the affected area is rinsed with fresh water as soon as possible after contact. If irritation persists see your medical practitioner.
If further information is required, please contact the DHF Environmental Health hotline on toll free 1800 095 646.
Media inquiries: Dale Webster 0401 116 203
