Testing the Water at Lake Cathie

30 September 2010

Following the success of last years program, Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has announced it will again join the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water's (DECCW) Beachwatch Partnership Program and will be monitoring and reporting on water quality of a popular local swimming area this summer.

Project Manager, Thor Aaso said they will continue to monitor one local swimming site in accordance with NSW DECCW Beachwatch Protocols.

"The site monitored will be Lake Cathie. After the great results at our ocean beaches Flynns, Town and Rainbow we will not continue to monitor these sites. However the complexities of the lagoon site are such that we feel it is important we maintain monitoring at Lake Cathie," Mr Aaso said.

Beachwatch Program Manager, Cris Hickey, congratulated Council for their commitment to keep tabs on the quality of their recreational swimming water, and to keep the public informed.

"The Mid North Coast is justly renowned for its spectacular beaches, bays, estuaries and coastal lakes and rivers," she said.

"While most coastal swimming sites generally enjoy excellent water quality, some experience stormwater pollution after rain. As a general rule, we encourage people to avoid swimming for a day after rainfall at coastal beaches, and for up to three days in estuarine areas," Ms Hickey said.

"There are many things the community can do to complement the work being conducted by Council.

"By placing litter in the bin, composting garden waste and not using the hose as a broom, we can all help ensure pollution stays out of the stormwater and our waterways remain clean," Mr Aaso said.