With summer holidays underway Goulburn-Murray Water (G-MW) encourages visitors to use water storages safely.
At Lake Eppalock monitoring has detected high levels of blue-green algae and G-MW is advising the public to avoid direct contact with water.
Lake Eppalock is still open to the public and visitors are encouraged to boat, sightsee and enjoy other activities that do not involve direct water contact.
G-MW previously issued a warning on 26 October 2011, which was removed on 6 January 2012 after monitoring found that levels of blue-green algae had declined. Recent monitoring has found levels have increased again and consequently G-MW needs to warn the public.
Warning signs will be positioned at major recreational areas around Lake Eppalock and will remain in place whilst the warning is current.
G-MW recommends:
- Take care when near the water.
- People who come into contact with affected water should wash affected skin immediately in clean water.
- Seeking an alternative water supply for both stock-watering and pets.
- Do not use affected water for cooking, drinking, washing or showering. Boiling the affected water will not make it safe to use.
Blue-green algae facts:
- Blue-green algae occur naturally and 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, nausea or vomiting.
- It is not possible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels within Lake Eppalock.
For current information visit G-MW's blue‑green algae webpage at http://www.g-mwater.com.au/bluegreenalgae-alert/ or call the blue-green algae hotline on 03 5826 3785.
- A range of fact sheets and other information on blue-green algae are available on the webpage.
A warning for blue-green algae is also current at Gum Lagoon - near Torrumbarry.
Water users are reminded that water supplied by Goulburn-Murray Water is not fit for any use that may involve human consumption, either directly or indirectly, without first being properly treated.
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Media Contact: Alice Milner
Position: Communications Adviser - Retail Information Services
Telephone: 03 5826 3706 or 0412 183 792