Toxic foam closes Fleurieu beaches
Surf Life Saving SA has issued a warning for clubs located on the south coast as beaches remain closed due to a harmful algal bloom.
In an alert issued to staff, Surf Life Saving SA said a toxic, brown foam had appeared along the coastline at Waitpinga, with signs the pollution is spreading towards other beaches.
“Experts suggest this may be due to a harmful algal bloom, exacerbated by recent marine heatwave conditions,” the alert said.
“This foam has been linked to a fish kill event and potential health risks for those exposed.
“Individuals who have come into contact with the affected water have reported symptoms such as coughing, sore throats, and eye irritation, with some experiencing respiratory discomfort.”
It is understood the foam has also been observed at Parsons Beach, Kings Beach, and Petrel Cove.
The message went on to advise lifesavers to avoid water-based training activities and to seek medical attention if symptoms develop after exposure.
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Surfer Anthony Rowland found dead leafy sea dragons. Photo: Facebook
Local surfer, Anthony Rowland, posted a warning on Facebook that “100 surfers” had been affected in the water and the carpark.
He shared photos of several dead leafy sea dragons, various fish species and an octopus that were found on the sand.
Leafy sea dragons are one of three species of sea dragon found nowhere else in the world, and only on Australia’s southern coastline.
Rowland discovered them while collecting water samples the day after he went for a surf.
“On Saturday over 100 surfers were infected while surfing or in the car park out at Waitpinga,” Rowland posted on the Victor Harbour Community Group Facebook page.
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“We all experienced a sore throat, dry cough and irritated eyes. Some even reported blurred vision.
“It lasted 24 hours or so. Although I am not 100 per cent better today.”
Various fish species have also washed up. Photo: Anthony Rowland via Facebook
Rowland described yellow foam and dark green tidelines on the beach.
Another surfer, Zanis Kourakis, said he was “coughing my guts up”.
“Once I paddled out the back the coughing fits started. Felt like I had something irritable in my throat, like capsicum spray.”
Victor Harbor Mayor Moira Jenkins told a local radio station that swimmers at other beaches, which were not closed, had also complained of coughing and skin irritation.
“I’d just avoid the beaches down here at the moment, until we get the all clear from the EPA and from DEW … if dogs go running and galloping into the water, which they love doing, then they may suffer as well,” she said.
National Parks and Wildlife South Australia said Waitpinga and Parsons beaches would be closed until midday on March 21.
“This closure may be extended depending upon algal bloom dispersal.”
