Beach coasts to 5th spot
QUEENSCLIFF’S Santa Casa beach is officially the region’s best, coming in at No.5 across the state.
The Environment Protection Authority’s 2021-22 summer beach report found the beach’s water quality was ranked “good” for 76 per cent of days across summer.
Beaches across the other side of the bay generally fared better, with beaches at Portsea and the Mt Martha Life Saving Club ranked the best swimming spots.
Eastern Beach recorded 70 per cent of “good”, while only 68 per cent of days were classified as “good” at The Dell.
Stormwater pollution from large drains and rivers nearby after rain was the most common cause of “fair” and “poor” forecasts issued over the summer.
EPA program co-ordinator for water Darren Cottam said heavy rain was among the most common cause of pollution.
“Heavy rain after dry weather can carry a large amount of pollution washed from surrounding areas into stormwater drains and waterways, including the Yarra River and Port Phillip Bay,” Mr Cottam said.
“High bacterial levels can cause stomach upsets, and vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly and people with vulnerable immune systems, are more likely to become ill, or get more severe illness from waterborne pathogens.
“Anyone experiencing swimming-related illness should seek advice from their doctor. When the forecast is for ‘poor’ water quality, EPA advises against swimming and alerts the public through our online and social media services, or via the free SMS alert service.”
Factors that affect water quality include proximity to stormwater drains, river and creek outflows and activity such as dredging.
The EPA plans to extend the monitoring season for the Yarra and Bay beaches in the coming summer in response to requests from the public.
Dates will be chosen by the water quality team after public consultation to be conducted later this year.