Blue-green algae outbreak forces part of Barwon River to close

THE Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CMA) has closed a section of the Barwon River in Geelong following a blue-green algae outbreak.

The Barwon River is closed from below Fyans Park to Breakwater Road in Breakwater, but sections closed on the river may change and warning signs have been placed along affected stretches of waterway.

A combination of hot weather, low water flows and high nutrient levels in the Barwon River have contributed to the outbreak.

During algal outbreaks, people and their pets should avoid contact with the water.

Contact with blue-green algae can cause skin rashes, eye and ear infections, vomiting and diarrhoea, mouth ulcers, sore throat and asthma symptoms.

Corangamite CMA’s Barwon through Geelong Co-ordinator Denis Lovric said people should also avoid eating shellfish or fish caught in contaminated water. Anyone experiencing a reaction should seek medical help.

Blue-green algae blooms can be seen with the naked eye across the water surface.

Blue-green algae toxins are colourless and odourless and can remain at dangerous levels in water even after the blooms have disappeared.

For information or to report a suspected blue-green algae outbreak, phone the Corangamite CMA on 5232 9100 or head to ccma.vic.gov.au.