Coogee Beach, along with beaches in the eastern suburbs, became part of a widescale clean-up that resulted in 75 tonnes of toxic waste and debris collected for disposal. The past few weeks have seen hardened balls of sewage wash up on various beaches, prompting an immediate investigation and the clean-up operation.
Toxic Waste Cleared from Sydney’s Beaches in Massive Clean-Up
First reported in late 2024 and continuing into early 2025, the pollution prompted closures at beaches including Bondi, Coogee, Manly, Bronte, and Dee Why. The waste, made up of cooking oil, soap scum, faecal matter and harmful chemicals like PFAS, formed into hardened black and white balls that washed ashore in large numbers.
What Was Found
The EPA confirmed the balls contained high levels of bacteria, including E. coli, along with hydrocarbons and fatty acids. The material is believed to have formed in sewer systems before being discharged into the ocean, although the exact source has not been confirmed.
Clean-up crews removed the waste from both sand and water, with more than 75 tonnes collected across the eastern and northern beaches. Temporary fencing and beach closures were enforced to protect public health.
Community Concerns and Health Risks
Water testing showed unsafe bacteria levels, raising concerns from councils and residents. Authorities warned that exposure could lead to skin infections and stomach illnesses. Beachgoers were urged to avoid affected areas and follow council alerts.
Randwick and Northern Beaches councils called for stronger environmental protections and faster responses to coastal pollution.
The Ongoing Investigation
The EPA is continuing to investigate potential sources, including illegal dumping, sewer failures, and waste from vessels. Sydney Water is also involved in tracing the contamination.
Improved sewer monitoring and coastal water testing are being planned to help prevent future incidents. Councils are urging the public to report unusual waste sightings along the shoreline. Most beaches have since reopened, though some still face monitoring. Authorities say the event highlights the need for stronger safeguards to protect Sydney’s coastline during peak swimming season.
Published 1-April-2025
