Please note: this is an archived news article release

This article was published on Thursday, 12 December, 2024. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

Blue Green Algae warning for Craigmuir Lake

In Summary

Council advises avoiding direct contact with water in Craigmuir Lake Mooroopna, due to high levels of blue-green algae, which can cause health issues such as skin irritation and nausea.
Residents are advised to avoid water use for drinking, cooking, or washing (including pets), as boiling does not make the water safe. Alternative water supplies should be used.
Craigmuir Lake remains open for non-water activities, with warning signs in place and ongoing water testing conducted by Council staff.
Updates are available on Goulburn-Murray Water’s blue-green algae webpage or hotline. Additional health advice can be found on the BetterHealth website or via Nurse-On-Call.

Blue-green algae occurs naturally in waterbodies and contains toxins that are harmful to humans and animals. Signs of algae contact are skin rashes or itchiness, sore eyes, ears and nose, or if swallowed, nausea or vomiting.

Warning signs have been positioned around the lake and will remain in place while high levels of blue-green algae are present. Council staff are also conducting water testing.

Craigmuir Lake will not be closed to the public.

Council recommends water users from Craigmuir Lake seek an alternative water supply. You can still enjoy other activities at Craigmuir Lake that do not involve direct contact with the water.

Council recommends:

People and pets do not enter the water.
People who come into contact with affected water should wash affected skin immediately in clean cold water.
Seeking an alternative water supply for pets.
Do not use affected water for cooking, drinking, washing or showering. Boiling the affected water will not make it safe for these purposes.
Additional information on blue green algae can be found at Goulburn-Murray Water’s blue-green algae webpage to be informed of the risks.

It is not possible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels. Council is continuing to monitor the situation at Craigmuir Lake.

Keep up to date with current blue-green algae warnings at www.gmwater.com.au/bluegreenalgae-alert or phone the GMW blue-green algae hotline on (03) 5826 3785.

Water supplied by Council is not suitable for human consumption without first being properly treated. Human consumption includes showering, bathing, washing, cooking, ice making and drinking.

Visit the BetterHealth website for more information about blue-green algae and your health or phone NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 606 024.