Water safety alert issued for Lake Eildon

By Kady Hadjab

Apr 23, 2024

Stay safe: Warnings are in place due to detected high levels of blue-green algae.

Goulburn-Murray Water is warning the public to avoid direct contact with Lake Eildon water due to high levels of blue-green algae detected.

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Signs will be displayed in the recreational spots surrounding the lake and remain in place while elevated concentrations of blue-green algae are detected.

“Blue-green algae occur naturally in water-bodies but contain toxins harmful to humans and animals,” G-MW Water Quality co-ordinator Bianca Atley said.

“Contact with it can cause rashes; sore eyes, ears and nose; or if swallowed, nausea or vomiting. It is therefore important people boating or enjoying activities near the water take extra precautions.”

G-MW recommends that people and pets avoid contact with the water, wash affected skin immediately with clean, cold water if contact occurs, seek alternative water supplies for stock and pets and refrain from using affected water for cooking, drinking, washing or showering.

G-MW water must undergo treatment before it is used, as it is not safe for human consumption in its untreated form.

It is impossible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels, but more information is available on the G-MW website at www.gmwater.com.au/bga or by calling 1800 013 357.