April 29, 2022
There is currently a blue-green algae bloom in the Gippsland Lakes and Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning have advised to avoid direct contact with affected water including swimming in Lake Victoria, Lake King, North Arm and Cunningham Arm. Contact with water at Lake Wellington is currently okay.
- Do not eat shellfish and gut and gill whole fish advisories remain in place across the entire Gippsland Lakes, including Lake Wellington.
- Animals, including pets, should not come into contact with the water in affected locations.
- Please take note of signage at boat ramps, jetties and fishing spots or check the VicEmergency app for the latest information and advice.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
Why should my pet and I avoid affected water?
Some types of blue green algae are toxic to humans and pets. Contact with toxic algae is hazardous for you and your pets. Seek medical advice if you come into contact with affected water.
Why not consume shellfish, prawns and crustaceans & gut/gill my whole fish caught from the Gippsland Lakes?
Seafood such as mussels, oysters, crustaceans or the gut and gills of whole fish store the toxins from the food they eat, including algae. If you eat these types of seafood, you will ingest these toxins and this can make you sick. If unwell, seek medical advice.
Are there areas you can swim in the Gippsland Lakes?
Lake Wellington is the only location within the Lakes where human and pet contact with water is safe. Signage is in place at affected areas, with weekly monitoring occurring across the entire system. There are an abundance of nearby alternative swimming locations unaffected by the bloom, including the ocean and riverways.
MORE INFORMATION
Call the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning Customer Service Centre on 136 186.
