The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is expanding its investigation into the cause of debris balls found along several New South Wales beaches in recent months.
The EPA first received a report of debris balls on Dee Why Beach. Lifeguards from Northern Beaches Council inspected beaches in the area and found ball-shaped debris on nine beaches: Manly, Dee Why, Long Reef, Queenscliff, Freshwater, North and South Curl Curl, North Steyne and North Narrabeen.
Adam Gilligan, EPA Director of Operations, said a team of technical experts in pollution matters and specialist investigators are exploring all lines of inquiry including potential connections between the various incidents.
“Investigating pollution incidents from unknown sources is incredibly challenging, but we will work with other government agencies and examine all potential sources with site visits,” said Gilligan.
“This will include possible land-based causes such as Sydney Water’s sewerage system, stormwater systems, as well as sea-borne sources such as a cruise ship or other vessels. We’re also looking into potential illegal trade waste discharge into stormwater.
“We are also undertaking the same chemical analysis of debris balls found on the Northern Beaches, as was conducted on debris balls found on other beaches across New South Wales. Preliminary results will be provided as soon as they are available.”
Extensive chemical analysis of debris balls found on Eastern suburbs’ beaches in October 2024 found they contained mainly fatty acids, and other materials, including human hair, various fibres and bacteria which are commonly associated with wastewater.
Petroleum hydrocarbons, similar to intermediate or heavy fuel oils often used in shipping, were also detected.
For more information, www.epa.nsw.gov.au/
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