Hunter Regional Algal Co-ordinating Committee today advised all residents in the Central Coast, Hawkesbury and Broken Bay areas that marine algal blooms have been detected off Central Coast Beaches.

The bloom is presenting as a reddish brown discolouration throughout the water and is currently well off shore.

Due to its location, sampling is yet to be undertaken, however as a precaution people are advised to be on the look out for any discolouration of the water when visiting the beach in these areas, and to avoid contact with water and surf where water is discoloured or there is a build up of foam.

Routine monitoring by members of the Hunter Regional Algal Coordinating Committee has detected an increase in toxic species of marine algae in Brisbane Water, the mouth of the Hawkesbury River and in the Broken Bay area.

It is believed that this increase could in part be due to one or a combination of factors such as the recent dust storms, cold water upwelling in the sea and the spate of warm weather.

People are advised to avoid collecting and eating wild shellfish and seek medical advice if they feel unwell after consuming wild oysters or fish from these areas.

Local Councils will continue to monitor the beaches and the Hunter Regional Algal Coordinating Committee will keep the public advised.

Shellfish sold through market structures are not affected by marine algae due to stringent testing guidelines in the shellfish industry.

If any health effects are experienced from contact with water affected by algal blooms, medical advice should be promptly sought. This media alert only reports algal blooms that have been brought to the attention of the Regional Algal Coordinating Committee. Algal blooms may be present in other areas where there is no regular algal monitoring.

Media enquiries

• Health Issues : North Shore Central Coast Area Health Service (02) 4349 4845
• Commercial and Recreational Fishing: Industry and Investment NSW (02) 6391 3180
• Food Safety: NSW Food Authority (02) 9741 4744