The entire Gippsland Lakes system and the ocean have been deemed safe for swimming in the cold weather as the temperature helps disperse blue-green algae.
Incident Controller at the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Andy Gillham said that while all areas were now safe for contact with water, there were still restrictions on seafood consumption.
“The colder weather we are experiencing is helping to disperse the algae, however, the current seafood advice remains in place for all of the Gippsland Lakes and in the ocean,” Mr Gillham said.
“The current seafood advice is do not eat shellfish such as mussels, crabs or prawns from anywhere in the Gippsland Lakes or the ocean from McLoughlins Beach through to Marlo,” he said.
“Fish caught from anywhere in the Gippsland Lakes or the ocean should be gutted, gilled and washed thoroughly in fresh water prior to cooking, with the guts and gills discarded.”
Mr Gillham said signage regarding contact with water was being removed, however seafood consumption advisory signage would remain in place.
He urged people to take note of signage in place at boat ramps, jetties and fishing spots, and check the VicEmergency app for the latest information.
The Incident Controller said blue-green algae had been present in the Gippsland Lakes system since February this year.
“We’re pleased to advise the Gippsland Lakes are now safe for a range of recreational activities, and we would like to thank the local community and visitors for helping to ensure everyone stayed safe during this latest algal bloom,” Mr Gillham said.
