Victorian lake tested for toxic algae

Melbourne Water is testing a popular lake in Lilydale for toxic blue-green algae after community members raised concerns.

SBlue-green algae outbreaks

Blue-green algae is quit visible and can be harmful if ingested. (AAP Image/Margaret Scheikowski) Source: AAP

Residents are warned not to swim in a popular outer Melbourne lake as water authorities investigate a report of toxic blue-green algae.

Melbourne Water says it is investigating and testing the water at Lillydale Lake in Lilydale after concerns raised by members of the community.

"If blue-green algae is present, signs will be erected warning the community to avoid contact with the water," manager (northeast) Steve Hosking told AAP on Tuesday.

"People should avoid contact with the water and make sure that it does not come into contact with their skin or eyes."

Yarra Ranges Council warned residents that swimming in the lake was not recommended at any time and signage at the lake advises just that.

Results from water tests are expected in the next few days.

Contact with blue-green algae can cause skin irritation, mild respiratory effects and hayfever-like symptoms.

Pet owners are also warned not to let their dogs swim or drink in water where blue-green algae is present.


Share
1 min read

Published

Updated

Source: AAP


Share this with family and friends


Get SBS News daily and direct to your Inbox

Sign up now for the latest news from Australia and around the world direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Download our apps
SBS News
SBS Audio
SBS On Demand

Listen to our podcasts
An overview of the day's top stories from SBS News
Interviews and feature reports from SBS News
Your daily ten minute finance and business news wrap with SBS Finance Editor Ricardo Gonçalves.
A daily five minute news wrap for English learners and people with disability
Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS
SBS World News

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service
Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world
Victorian lake tested for toxic algae | SBS News