Coogee Beach has been rated “poor” for water quality, according to the latest report, which revealed high levels of faecal pollution across many popular swimming spots in New South Wales.
Pollution Levels at Coogee and Nearby Beaches
The NSW State of the Beaches 2023-24 report has found that more than a quarter of the state’s monitored swimming spots, including Coogee Beach, have been impacted by faecal pollution over the past year.
Coogee, along with Bronte, Malabar, and Shelly Beach, was among six beaches in Sydney rated as “poor” due to contamination from faecal matter. Coogee’s water quality rating has remained “stable,” with the report noting that while ocean beaches generally have good ratings, areas like Coogee are particularly susceptible to pollution, especially after heavy rain.
The report, prepared by the NSW Enviroment, emphasised that stormwater runoff after rainfall significantly contributes to pollution levels, leading to health issues such as gastroenteritis and respiratory infections. Beaches in estuaries, lakes, and lagoons were the worst affected as these areas tend to trap more runoff and contaminants. Sites such as Gymea Bay in Port Hacking and Foreshores Beach in Botany Bay were even rated as “very poor,” indicating they should be avoided most of the time.
Community Health Risks and Precautions
NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe stated that, while most of Sydney’s beaches generally have high water quality, residents should remain cautious, especially with predictions of a wet summer. The Bureau of Meteorology has forecasted above-average rainfall, expected to exacerbate water pollution levels across NSW beaches. In response, authorities recommend that swimmers check the Beachwatch website for live updates on water quality before heading to beaches like Coogee.
The Beachwatch program, which partners with Sydney Water and Hunter Water, conducted over 20 yearly audits to monitor pollution levels. According to the report, while 95% of ocean beaches in NSW were rated as “very good” or “good,” the increased rainfall has negatively impacted many other sites, including several widespread inland and harbour beaches. Swimmers are advised to avoid water contact for at least 24 hours after heavy rain, especially vulnerable groups like young children, the elderly, and those with compromised health.
Action on Water Quality
To address ongoing pollution concerns, NSW allocated $2.5 million to stormwater management at Coogee Beach and plans to present improvements to the local council next year. This investment aims to reduce the amount of contaminated runoff entering the water, providing a safer experience for beachgoers. Additionally, Penrith Beach, a manmade beach that opened on a trial basis last summer, will be added to the Beachwatch monitoring system to ensure its water quality is suitable for swimmers.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about water conditions and exercise caution during summer beach visits. With increased rainfall anticipated, checking the Beachwatch website has become more critical to avoid potential health risks linked to polluted water.
Published 30-Oct-2024
