Greater Shepparton City Council, Media Release, 15 January 2024
Greater Shepparton City Council is warning the public to avoid direct contact with water in Kialla Lakes after detecting high levels of blue-green algae in the first lake.
Blue-green algae occurs naturally in waterbodies. They contain toxins that are harmful to humans and animals. Signs of algae contact are skin rashes or itchiness, sore eyes, ears and nose, or if swallowed, nausea or vomiting.
Warning signs have been positioned around the first lake and will remain in place while high levels of blue-green algae are present. Council staff are also conducting water testing.
Kialla Lakes will not be closed to the public.
Council recommends water users from Kialla Lakes seek an alternative water supply. You can still enjoy other activities at Kialla Lakes that do not involve direct contact with the water.
Council recommends:
- People and pets do not enter the water.
- People who come into contact with affected water should wash affected skin immediately in clean cold water.
- Seeking an alternative water supply for pets.
- Do not use affected water for cooking, drinking, washing or showering. Boiling the affected water will not make it safe for these purposes.
- Additional information on blue green algae can be found at Goulburn-Murray Water’s blue-green algae webpage (http://www.g-mwater.com.au/bluegreenalgae-alert/) to be informed of the risks.
It is not possible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels. Council is continuing to monitor the situation at Kialla Lakes.
Keep up to date with current blue-green algae warnings at www.gmwater.com.au/bluegreenalgae-alert or phone the GMW blue-green algae hotline on (03) 5826 3785.
Water supplied by Council is not suitable for human consumption without first being properly treated. Human consumption includes showering, bathing, washing, cooking, ice making and drinking.
For more information about blue-green algae and your health, visit www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/Harmful-algal-blooms or phone NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 606 024.
