Warning: Your next swim could pose health risks—shocking test results revealed!

Iconic ocean pools and beaches are a quintessential part of the city's lifestyle, offering a refreshing escape from the heat and a picturesque setting for locals and tourists alike.

However, recent water testing has raised serious concerns about the safety of these beloved swimming spots, with unsafe levels of faecal contamination detected in several locations.


The Sydney Morning Herald commissioned tests in November and January, which revealed that some of Sydney's most popular ocean pools, baths, and lakes are not as pristine as swimmers might hope.

At the historic Dawn Fraser Baths in Balmain, the faecal contamination levels were a staggering 10 times above the safe threshold.


1738026188459.png
After recent testing, unsafe levels of faecal contamination were found in several Sydney ocean pools. Credit: Allistair McLellan / iStock


Mort Bay in Birchgrove and Redleaf at Double Bay also reported contamination levels significantly higher than what is considered safe for swimmers.

Other affected areas include Nielsen Park, Murray Rose Pool, and Barangaroo, all showing elevated levels of faecal matter.

Fortunately, not all tested sites were compromised. Balmoral Beach, Penrith Beach, Windsor Beach, and Lake Parramatta were given a clean bill of health, much to the relief of their frequent visitors.


The culprit behind these alarming findings is a bacteria known as enterococci, which can lead to gastrointestinal illnesses.

Katherine Warwick, a Western Sydney University PhD candidate who conducted the testing, explained that water quality can be highly variable.

‘It's sometimes not that much of a surprise because the quality of the water can change almost hourly,’ she said.

‘It's really quite fickle, but what this does tell us is how quickly it can change.’

‘If you are swimming in that area and you do become sick just after swimming there, chance are you've ingested that bacteria and [should] get yourself to a health professional immediately.’


The source of the contamination is believed to be a combination of factors, including runoff from construction sites, dog faeces on the streets, and sewage overflows.

These elements contribute to the ocean's dirty secret, posing a hidden threat to public health.

Beachwatch, a pollution monitoring program, guides where and when it is safe to swim, but their testing frequency—usually once a week—may not be sufficient to keep swimmers informed in real time.

‘So it takes 24 to 48 hours to get a result back. And so, for some people, they may not know until they're already sick that they swam in a place that wasn't safe,’ Warwick explained.

In response to these findings, Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne has insisted that Dawn Fraser Baths remains safe for swimming but acknowledged the need for more frequent testing to reassure the public.


The discovery of such high levels of contamination, even if only on one occasion, necessitates further investigation and action.

Those who frequent Sydney's ocean pools and beaches should stay informed by checking Beachwatch updates and avoid swimming after heavy rainfall, which can worsen pollution levels.

Despite the warnings, some swimmers remain undeterred, trusting in the historical cleanliness of these natural swimming areas.

Key Takeaways

  • Recent water testing in Sydney has revealed unsafe levels of faecal contamination in several ocean pools.
  • High levels of enterococci bacteria, which can cause gastrointestinal illness, were found in the contaminated sites.
  • The pollution is attributed to various factors, including run-off from construction sites, dog waste, and sewage overflows.
  • Swimmers are advised to refer to Beachwatch for water safety updates and avoid swimming after rain.

Have you experienced any health issues after a swim in Sydney's ocean pools or beaches? Share your experiences with us, and let's discuss how we can advocate for cleaner, safer waters for all to enjoy.
 
  • Like
Reactions: saundy

Seniors Discount Club

Sponsored content

Info
Loading data . . .
There should be a strict speed limit for water craft such as jet skis + boats used for ski-ing / leisure too
 
For babies / toddlers there is "swimmers" which means nothing leaks out into the water. I wonder how many people buy and use them. That might eliminate at least a small amount of the problem
 
  • Like
Reactions: magpie1
Well maybe we should start picking up our own poo after going to the toilet and putting that into "people bags".....can't blame our poor pooches for everything . :unsure:
 

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.

Seniors Discount Club

The SDC searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's Australia
  5. Food and Lifestyle
  6. Money Saving Hacks
  7. Offtopic / Everything else
  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×