Investigation concluded on material detected in Noosa River

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Published: 3rd September 2024

3 September 2024

Investigation finds no risk to public health

An extensive investigation into the potential pollution incident in the Noosa River has been completed, indicating there was no significant risk to public health or the environment.

Environmental Health Manager Rob Smith said in collaboration with state agencies and Unitywater, thorough sampling and testing was conducted of potential contamination sources

“These included audits of private water treatment facilities, inspections of residential boats, and comprehensive on-water inspections and surveillance,” he said.

Additionally, on-water surveillance captured samples of floating materials like that shown in social media posts. The water was tested for a range of bacterial, organic, particulate matter and the results were found to be consistent with soil and organic matter typical of the river's environmental conditions.

It is common for river contamination levels to temporarily rise following heavy rain due to runoff carrying various materials, including bacteria. However, these levels typically disperse rapidly, and there is generally no cause for concern.

24 August, 2024

Update on Noosa River Water Quality

Following water quality testing undertaken in the past 48 hours, we have identified elevated bacterial levels in some samples taken near Goat Island.

As a precaution, further sampling and monitoring is being conducted.

Water testing results from samples taken across recreational areas along Noosa River have indicated that there is no public health risk.

We are continuing to work closely with Maritime Safety Queensland to thoroughly investigate any possible cause of contamination.

22nd August 2024

Council officers, in collaboration with Maritime Safety Queensland, have completed a comprehensive investigation into the material detected in Noosa River.

CEO Larry Sengstock said inspections were conducted at five key sites today near the locations where material was identified by members of the public.

"These samples are being analysed to confirm the nature of the unknown material and it's hoped to have results late tomorrow afternoon," he said.

Preliminary findings indicate that the material is not faecal contamination, and is likely to be algal bloom, which is a natural occurrence and in most cases harmless and generally concentrations are not high enough to pose a public health risk.

Council remains committed to monitoring the situation and will provide further updates as results become available.

21st August 2024

Further testing is being conducted to determine the nature of the material filmed floating on the Noosa River. Initial results indicate the material is not human waste.

Working with Unitywater and Maritime Safety Queensland, Council is thoroughly investigating possible sources both on land and from within the river.

CEO Larry Sengstock said several water samples have been taken and tested. Council will provide updates on results when available.

"The tests results received so far indicate that levels are well within the Queensland Recreation Water Quality Guidelines and show no indication of human waste being present," Mr Sengstock said.

Council officers have contacted individuals who have reported the incident to confirm the areas possibly affected.

Council is continuing to work with Maritime Safety Queensland and other agencies to establish the exact nature of the material in addition to its normal recreational water quality monitoring program.

Given recent rainfall and higher than ususal tides, floating debris in the river is normal, as these condition wash more material than usual into waterways.