Goulburn-Murray Water (G-MW) is advising people to
avoid contact with water from Torgannah Lagoon after detecting high levels of potentially toxic blue-green algae.
Signs are being placed around the Lagoon, which is
located between Cobram and Tocumwal, to warn the public of the issue. Blue-green algae may be invisible to the naked
eye, or may form scums or slicks on the water surface.
G‑MW advises water users at Torgannah Lagoon to seek an alternative water supply for both
stock-watering and domestic purposes.
Water from
Torgannah Lagoon should not be used for cooking, drinking, washing, stock
watering or for pets. Boiling the affected water will not make it safe to use.
Affected
water may still be used for irrigation however stock should be kept away from
recently irrigated areas. The water can
also be used on gardens, however washing the edible parts of the plant with
non-affected water prior to processing or cooking can not be relied upon to
totally remove surface toxins.
Blue-green algae
can be dangerous to humans and animals.
Characteristic signs of algae contact are skin rashes or itchiness; sore
eyes, ears and nose; or, if swallowed, gastroenteritis, nausea or vomiting. People
who come into contact with affected water should wash affected skin immediately
in clean water.
G-MW will continue to monitor
the situation and will advise customers and water users of any change in
alerts.
Water users are reminded that water supplied by G-MW is not fit for any
use that may involve human consumption, either directly or indirectly, without
first being properly treated.
For further information please visit the G-MW
website, www.g‑mwater.com.au, and for
current alert status ring the blue-green algae hotline on 03 5833 5785.
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ENDS -
Media Contact: Sheree
FItzgerald
Position: Corporate Communications
Adviser
Telephone: (03) 58335 754