Hot summer ahead: EPA urges swimmers to check water quality before diving in

WITH a hot and potentially wet summer forecast for Victoria, the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is reminding Geelong, Surf Coast and Bellarine residents to check water quality before hitting the beach.

The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting a higher-than-average chance of above-median rainfall and warmer temperatures, increasing the likelihood of stormwater runoff polluting local waterways.

EPA Victoria’s chief environmental scientist, Dr Jen Martin, said while warmer conditions make a dip in the bay tempting, heavy rainfall can wash pollutants, including animal faeces, into the water and pose health risks for swimmers.

“After heavy rain, it’s a good idea to stay out of the water for 24 to 48 hours. Don’t swim near drain or river outlets and if the water appears murky or smells, best to head to the pool. Given time, it dilutes, and water quality improves.”

Water pollution after rain, she said, can aggravate skin conditions, while gastroenteritis and respiratory infections are among the most common illnesses linked to poor water quality.

Children, older people and those with vulnerable immune systems are at the greatest risk of getting sick.

Beaches along the Bellarine Peninsula and Geelong’s waterfront generally rate among the state’s best for water quality, alongside those on the Mornington Peninsula.

These areas are less likely to be affected by stormwater pollution due to their distance from major river outlets.

Topping the state’s list of clean beaches is Santa Casa beach in Queenscliff, but after recent heavy rains, the water quality around Port Phillip Bay, at the time of writing, remains poor.

“Generally, water quality in the bay is good, but it pays to swim between the flags, slip, slop, slap, check EPA Beach Report and look for signage at your local Surf Life Saving Club,” Dr Martin said.