ALGAE ON THE GIPPSLAND LAKES - from DSE
The bloom is now affecting the whole lakes system and is spreading into the rivers. Its depth is increasing.
DS&E have been contacted and a number of matters regarding the warning signs have been confirmed.
Some more details in relation to health aspects have been provided.
These are the views following an investigation by GLYC, and a phone conversation with DS&E by LSBC
1. The warning signs are for no swimming and windsurfing
2. Boating is not in the warning, but advised that after boating if there has been contact with the water that washing (wiping with a towel) would reduce the chance of skin irritation. Splashing (as from OTB boats) he considered to be part of boating and provided health warnings were provided then its is up to the individual to decide whether or not to compete.
3. Dept of Human Services advise that approximately20% of the population may be affected with skin irritation and possible respiratory issues, but the bloom is not toxic and no toxins have been identified in the sampling process at this stage.
4. He was specifically asked in relation to sailability programs and children putting hands in the water whilst sailing his response was that if the hands or arms could be washed when returning to shore it should be fine. If water is not available then wiping with a towel would suffice.
5. He commented that wetsuits have posed some interesting issues.the Wetsuits can force the BGA into closer contact with the skin creating a greater chance of irritation. His advice is after boating with a wetsuit that wetsuit be washed when taken off. He felt that washing the body was preferable to washing whilst on the body, taking it off and the washing the body .(perhaps giving the wetsuit a double washing would reduce the possibility algae entering the inside of the wetsuit)
6. The DS&E web site indicates that swimming and water sports where direct contact with the water should be avoided. When queried water sports and boating, his response related to the speed of windsurfers and skiing and “that mirrors can’t go that fast” As a person with sailing experience, he was of the view that provided the health warnings were given regarding washing after contact, then the risk of skin irritation is dramatically reduced.
7. He was not aware of particular dispositions e.g. asthmatics or particular skin conditions that made particular people more susceptible.
We advise that the warning signs discourage swimming and wind surfing, and that it has discussed with DS&E and the following information has been provided:
1. Whilst windsurfing and swimming are not recommended to be conducted in the Lakes, boating is permitted use.
2. No toxins have been identified in sampling conducted by DS&E
3. Approximately 20% of the population may experience skin irritations and mild respiratory and hay fever like symptoms after exposure to the BGA.
4. It is recommended that after boating activities, washing of any area that may have been exposed to affected water be undertaken when returning to shore.
5. Those wearing wetsuits whilst sailing are encouraged to wash the wetsuit prior to its next use.
6. Given the above ,sailors are reminded that it is the skipper’s decision whether or not to compete. Continue in an event, based on the boat and conditions at the time of sailing
Barry Phillips - Secretary LSBC
SEE MORE INFO AT DSE WEBSITE
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