Recreational Water Quality Annual Report

Reporting period 1 July 2014 – 30 June 2015

CONTENTS PAGE NO

1. INTRODUCTION ...... 3 2. BACKGROUND ...... 4 2.1 Health Risks from Swimming ...... 4 2.2 Roles and Responsibilities of Agencies ...... 4 3. AUSTRALIAN GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL USE OF WATER ...... 5 4.1 Break O’ Day Council ...... 6 4.2 Brighton Council ...... 6 4.3 Burnie City Council ...... 6 4.4 Central Coast Council ...... 7 4.5 Central Highlands Council ...... 7 4.6 ...... 8 4.7 Clarence City Council ...... 8 4.8 ...... 9 4.9 Devonport City Council ...... 10 4.10 Dorset Council ...... 10 4.11 Flinders Island Council ...... 11 4.12 ...... 11 4.13 Glamorgan/Spring Bay Council ...... 11 4.14 Glenorchy City Council ...... 12 4.15 City Council ...... 13 4.16 ...... 14 4.17 ...... 14 4.18 ...... 14 4.19 ...... 15 4.20 ...... 15 4.21 Launceston City Council ...... 16 4.22 ...... 17 4.23 Northern Midlands Council ...... 17 4.24 Sorell Council ...... 18 4.25 Southern Midlands Council ...... 18 4.26 ...... 19 4.27 Waratah/Wynyard Council ...... 19 4.28 ...... 19 4.29 ...... 20 5. DISCUSSION ...... 211 6. DEFINITIONS 22

REFERENCES ...... 214

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Director of Public Health Recreational Water Quality Report 2014-2015

1. INTRODUCTION

Water-based recreational activities are very Councils must provide an annual report to the popular in , particularly during Department of Health and Human Services on summer. their activities around recreational water quality monitoring. While Tasmania has extensive coastline and many inland water bodies, many recreational Information provided in council annual reports areas are relatively inaccessible. is summarised in the annual Recreational Water Quality Report 2014-2015, issued by the Many people use more accessible coastal Director of Public Health. beaches, freshwater rivers and lakes, especially those close to urban areas with good road This report provides information to the access. Publically accessible pools and spas are community on water quality at recognised also popular for recreational activities. recreational sites in Tasmania.

The Recreational Water Quality Guidelines 2007 For further information about individual water issued under the Public Health Act 1997, require quality results, contact the relevant council councils to regularly monitor the water quality Environmental Health Officer. of municipal areas used for significant recreational activity and respond to identified risks to public health.

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2. BACKGROUND Publically accessible pools and spas must also be monitored in line with these guidelines. 2.1 Health Risks from Swimming If there is any doubt as to the need for Water contaminated by sewage and animal monitoring, the advice of the Director of waste often contains a diverse range of Public Health should be sought. pathogenic micro-organisms such as viruses, bacteria and protozoa. In accordance with Section 128 of the Public Health Act 1997: These organisms pose a health hazard when the water is used for recreational activities like An agency, public authority or person managing or swimming and other contact water sports. in control of water must: This is mainly because during these activities a) manage the water in a manner that does there is a considerable risk that water could be not pose a threat to public health; and swallowed, or inhaled. b) on becoming aware that the quality of the Polluted water may also come into contact water is, or is likely to become, a threat to with ears, nasal passages, mucous membranes public health, notify the Director in and cuts in the skin, allowing disease-causing accordance with any relevant Guidelines. organisms to enter the body. Monitoring should be undertaken in line with In most cases, any health effects from exposure the following procedures: to contaminated water are relatively minor and short-lived, such as skin rashes, ear and eye 1. Take samples of natural recreational infections and gastrointestinal diseases. water bodies at the beginning of the swimming season and thereafter, weekly However, the potential for more serious during the season. This includes diseases such as protozoan infections and December, January, February and March, salmonellosis also exist (NHMRC 2008). unless other arrangements are approved 2.2 Roles and Responsibilities of Agencies by the Director of Public Health.

Councils, the Department of Primary 2. Take samples from all public swimming Industries, Parks, Water and Environment and pools and public spa pools on a monthly the Department of Health and Human Services basis or, if directed in writing by an all have responsibilities for managing Authorised Officer, more frequently. recreational water and protecting human 3. Conduct additional sampling whenever a health where the public use such waters. threat to public health is suspected. However, it is not practical for all possible 4. Each controlling authority shall consult recreational waters in a jurisdiction to be the Director on the proposed sampling regularly monitored. program to be used when a threat to Therefore, it is necessary and appropriate to public health is suspected. focus on particular areas, such as a beach, lake 5. At the end of each swimming season the or river that is used regularly by a large controlling authority shall prepare a number of people for primary contact report on recreational water quality for purposes. These areas should be monitored in presentation to the director by 30 line with these guidelines. September each year.

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3. AUSTRALIAN GUIDELINES FOR RECREATIONAL USE OF WATER

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NH&MRC) has produced Guidelines for Managing Risks in Recreational Water which were issued in February 2008. These guidelines were developed to provide information to the public and government agencies on the suitability of waters for recreational use. They apply to all natural water bodies (coastal, estuarine and fresh) that are used by the public for recreation.

While the national guidelines are not mandatory, they attempt to provide a benchmark to ensure that the use of recreational waters is safe from a water quality perspective. The guidelines are an excellent resource for the management of the quality of natural water bodies used for whole body (primary) contact recreation.

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4. COUNCIL RECREATIONAL at Site 1 and Site 6. Sites 2 and 4 were not WATER MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES sampled during the season.

4.1 Break O’ Day Council For more information contact Philip Bingley on (03) 6376 7933. Natural Recreational Water Bodies 4.2 Brighton Council Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological (Enterococci). Natural Recreational Water Bodies

Location of sampling sites: Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological 1. Grants Lagoon (Enterococci). 2. Wrinklers Lagoon Location of sampling sites: 3. Beauty Bay, St Helens 1. Jetty Road, Old Beach 4. Scamander River Mouth Sampling details: Sampling was conducted Sampling details: Sampling was conducted weekly from December – March. monthly from December – March. Results: Apart from some marginally elevated Results: All sites were compliant with results in late February, results remained guideline values for primary contact. consistently low over the sampling period. Comments: Signs are in place to advise the Comments: The Jordan River has only limited public not to swim during and after rainfall secondary contact use, with signage in place events in enclosed water and river sites. warning against primary contact. For the most part, the Jordan River ceases to flow Pools and Spas during the later summer months; however the Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological sampling site is subject to tidal movements. (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant The Jordan River is sampled as part of the coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Derwent Estuary Monitoring Program.

Location of pools sampled; Pools and Spas 1. Bayside Inn, St Helens, pool Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological 2. Blue Seas Holiday Villas, Scamander, (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant pool coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). 3. Pelican Sands, Scamander, pool Location of pools sampled;

4. Scamander Beach Hotel Motel, pool 1. Brighton Swim Centre, Brighton, pool 5. St Helens District High School, pool Sampling details: Sampling was conducted on 6. St Marys District High School, pool a monthly basis. 7. Tidal Waters, St Helens, pool For more information contact Brent Basstian 8. White Sands Estate, Ironhouse Point, on (03) 6263 0332.

pool 4.3 Burnie City Council

Sampling details: Sampling frequency varied Natural Recreational Water Bodies between sites, from once at site 5, twice at Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological Sites 3 and 8, three times at Site 7, to monthly (Enterococci). Page 6 of 24

Location of sampling sites: 5. Midway Point, Penguin 1. Cooee Beach, west end 6. Picnic Point Beach, West Ulverstone 2. Cooee Beach, east end 7. Preservation Bay, Penguin, Surf Club 3. West Beach, west end 8. Turners Beach 4. West Beach, east end Sampling details: Sampling was conducted 5. South Burnie, yacht club monthly from December – March. Sampling details: Sampling was conducted Results: Sampling sites complied with fortnightly from January – March. guideline values for primary contact activities with the exception of Bannons Park Results: All sites were compliant with (throughout the season) and Picnic Point guideline values for primary contact. Beach (in December, February and March).

Pools and Spas Comments: Signs advising against swimming Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological are in place at Bannons Park. This is based on a history of sample results exceeding guideline (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant levels. Non-compliant results from Picnic coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Point Beach may be attributed to a number of Location of pools sampled: factors including: impacts from surrounding agricultural land, nearby storm water and 1. Burnie Aquatic Centre, Burnie pool Ulverstone waste water treatment plant 2. Healthglo Fitness & Leisure, Uplands discharges. Place, pool Pools and Spas 3. Oasis Three Mile Line, Burnie, pool Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological 4. Private Pool Hire, East Cam Road, pool (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant 5. TLC Aquatic, West Mooreville Road, coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). pool Location of pools sampled: Sampling details: With the exception of 1. Dolphinius Aquatics, turners Beach, pool December, sampling was conducted on a 2. East Ulverstone Indoor Pool, pool monthly basis. 3. Mount Saint Vincent, West Ulverstone, For more information contact Paddy Kennedy hydrotherapy pool on (03) 6430 5765. 4.4 Central Coast Council Sampling details: Sampling was conducted monthly when pools were open. Natural recreational Water Bodies

Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological For more information contact Bill Hyndes on (Enterococci). (03) 6429 8936. Location of sampling sites: 4.5 Central Highlands Council

1. Bannons Park, Gunns Plains Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological 2. Johnsons Beach, Penguin Caravan Park (Enterococci). 3. Main Beach, Penguin Location of sampling sites: 4. Main Beach, Ulverstone, Surf Club Page 7 of 24

1. , Bothwell contact at all times. Both sites have however 2. Clyde River, Hamilton been given a ‘Fair’ water quality rating for the 2014 – 2015 period. Elevated sample results 3. Derwent River, Lake Meadow Bank from Tatlows Beach and Godfreys Beach were Sampling details: Samples were taken from attributed to poor weather conditions at the Clyde River (Hamilton), on one occasion, time of sampling. Derwent River on two occasions and Clyde Pools and Spas River (Bothwell) on three occasions. Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological Results: Due to the number of samples taken, the results were inconclusive. (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Comments: Suitable signage has been erected at Clyde River, Hamilton. Location of pools sampled:

For more information contact Bev 1. Circular Head War Memorial Swimming Armstrong on (03) 6259 5503. Pool, Smithton, pool Pools and Spas 2. Tall Timbers Hotel Motel, Smithton, 1 Council did not advise of any publically pool, 1 spa accessible pools or spas in the municipality. Sampling details: Sampling was conducted monthly at Site 1. Sampling was also 4.5 Circular Head Council conducted monthly at Site 2 during December Natural recreational Water Bodies and January.

Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological For more information contact Amanda (Enterococci). Richards on (03) 6452 4848.

Location of sampling sites: 4.7 Clarence City Council 1. Natural Recreational Water Bodies 2. Detention River Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological 3. Godfreys Beach (Enterococci).

4. Tatlows Beach Location of sampling sites: Sampling details: Sampling frequency varied 1. Bellerive Beach from monthly to fortnightly between 2. Howrah Beach East November and March. 3. Howrah Beach, Salacia Ave Results: Elevated levels occurred at 4. Howrah Beach, Silwood St Detention River and Crayfish Creek on one sampling occasion. Elevated levels also 5. Little Howrah Beach occurred at Godfrey’s Beach and Tatlows Sampling details: All sites were sampled Beach on one occasion, though resampling weekly from December - March. Sites 1 - 4 returned compliant results. were also sampled monthly throughout winter Comments: Advisory warning signage erected as part of the Derwent Estuary Program at Crayfish Creek and Detention River in (DEP) and Site 5 sampled intermittently, to 2005/2006 remains in place, to inform the investigate the likely impact of stormwater. public that water quality at these sites may not comply with guideline values for primary Page 8 of 24

Results: Results for all sites for December – 5. Oceana Health and Fitness, Mornington, March were within guideline limits. Samples 1 hydro therapy pool, 1 pool were also taken on a single occasion at 6. Richmond Caravan Park, Richmond, 1 Dorans Road, Opossum Bay Beach, Seven Mile Beach, Cremorne Beach, Roaches Beach, pool Lauderdale Beach and Clifton Beach. These 7. Sea Horse Swim Centre, Howrah, 1 results were also within guideline limits. pool During the winter months guideline limits 8. Shellz Swim Centre, Rokeby East, 1 were exceeded on one occasion at Howrah Beach, Salacia Ave, on three occasions at pool Howrah Beach East sites and once at Little 9. Wyndham resort, Seven Mile Beach, 1 Howrah Beach. pool, 1 spa Comments: Based on information provided Sampling details: Sampling was conducted on by DEP, recreational sites were graded as a monthly basis. Exceptions to this were Sites follows: Bellerive Beach, Howrah Beach 1, 2, 6, 7 and 8 at which sampling was ‘missed’ (Silwood Avenue) and Howrah Beach East in one month of the swimming season and Site were rated as ‘fair’, while Little Howrah Beach 5 at which sampling was not conducted in received a ‘good’ rating. Howrah Beach December and March. One pool was closed (Salacia Avenue) was rated as ‘poor’, with briefly in response to elevated levels and primary contact not advised. reopened following corrective action and a return to compliant levels. Council intends installing ‘flip down’ signage to display advisory warnings where two For more information contact Ron Vanderwal consecutive samples return non-compliant on (03) 6261 8525 results. 4.8 Derwent Valley Council Stormwater monitoring has been undertaken Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological at a number of outfalls at Howrah Beach and (Enterococci). has also commenced at Kangaroo Bay and Clarence Plains Rivulets. Natural Recreational Water Bodies

Pools and Spas Location of sampling site: Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological 1. Fitzgerald Park Jetty, Derwent River, New Norfolk. (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Sampling details: Sampling was undertaken weekly from December– March. Location of pools sampled: 1. Acton Swim Centre, Acton, 1 pool, 1 Results: Results were compliant with guideline levels for primary contact activities spa and water quality given a rating of ‘Good’. 2. Barilla Thermal Springs, Cambridge, 1 Pools and Spas spa Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological 3. Clarence Aquatic Centre, Montagu Bay, 3 pools (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). 4. Clarence Joint Therapy, Howrah, 1 pool, Location of pools sampled: Page 9 of 24

1. Bushy Park Swimming Pool, Glenora, 8. Nixon St Primary School, Devonport, pool pool 2. Maydena Swimming Pool, Maydena, 9. Splash Aquatic Centre, Devonport , 2 pool hydrotherapy pools, 2 pools 3. New Norfolk Swimming Pool, 2 pools 10. Wrenswood, Quioba, pool Sampling details: Sampling was conducted Sampling details: Sampling was conducted weekly at Site 3 and on a fortnightly basis at monthly throughout the year, with the Sites 2 and 3. exception of seasonal closures.

For more information contact David Bradford For more information contact Karen Welsh on (03) 6261 8525. on (03) 6424 0576. 4.9 Devonport City Council 4.10 Dorset Council Natural Recreational Water Bodies Natural Recreational Water Bodies

Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological (Enterococci). (Enterococci). Location of sampling sites: Location of sampling sites: 1. Back Beach 1. Granite Point 2. Bluff Beach 2. Old Pier Beach 3. Coles Beach 3. Trent Water (estuary) 4. East Devonport Beach Sampling details: Sampling was conducted Sampling details: Sampling was conducted monthly from December– March. fortnightly from November - March. Results: All sample sites were compliant with Results: All sample sites were compliant with guideline values for primary contact activities. guideline levels for primary contact activities. Comments: While there was an elevated Pools and Spas sample result from Trent Water (estuary) on one occasion, resampling returned results Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological within guideline limits.

(Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant Pools and Spas coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological Location and name of pools sampled: (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant 1. Appledore, Miandetta, pool coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). 2. Barclay Motor Lodge, Devonport, pool Location of pools and spas: 3. Mersey, Spreyton, pool 1. Branxholm Pool, Branxholm, pool 4. Croft, Croft Ave, Devonport, pool 2. Lost Farm Wellness Centre Spa, 5. Fuschia, Lillico, pool Bridport, spa 6. Gordon Place, Devonport, pool 3. Scottsdale Pool, Scottsdale, pool 7. Lawrence, Devonport, pool

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Sampling details: Sampling of Lost Farm 1. Beechford Wellness Centre Spa was conducted in 2. Hillwood January and February 2015 and on five other 3. Lagoon Beach occasions throughout the year. Branxholm and Scottsdale Pools were not sampled. 4. Pilots Bay 5. Pipe Clay Bay For more information contact James Clark on (03) 6352 6500. 6. York Cove 4.11 Flinders Island Council Sampling details: Sampling was conducted monthly from December - March. Natural Recreational Water Bodies Results: Sample sites were compliant with Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological guideline values for primary contact activities, (Enterococci). with the exception of Pipe Clay Bay.

Location of sampling sites: Comments: Sample results exceeded 1. Allports Beach Guideline levels at Pipe Clay Bay in December 2. Killicrankie Bay and January, however the cause was unclear. The site was closed for primary contact 3. Lady Barron during this time. 4. Whitemark Pools and Spas Sampling details: Sampling was conducted Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological monthly from December – March. (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant Results: All sample sites were compliant with coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa) guideline values for primary contact activities. Location of pools and spas: Pools and Spas 1. George Town Swimming Pool, pool Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological 2. George Town Swimming Pool, paddling (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant pool coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Sampling details: Sampling was conducted Location of pools sampled: monthly from December - March. 1. Flinders Island District High School Pool, Whitemark, pool For more information contact Chris Wicks on 0431 481429. Branxholm Pool, Branxholm Sampling details: Sampling was conducted in 4.13 Glamorgan/Spring Bay Council November and March. Natural Recreational Water Bodies For more information contact Ms Jaqui Viney on (03) 6359 5005. Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological (Enterococci). 4.12 George Town Council Location of sampling sites: Natural Recreational Water Bodies 1. East Shelly Beach, Orford Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological

(Enterococci). 2. Jubilee Beach, Swansea 3. Muirs Beach, Coles Bay Location of sampling sites: Page 11 of 24

4. Spring Beach, Orford 7. Mona Jetty 5. Waubs Beach, Bicheno 8. Mona Berriedale Bay

Sampling details: Sampling was conducted Sites 1 and 2 are routinely monitored each monthly from December – March. year. Sites 3 to 8 were added this sampling season as a number of events and activities Results: All sample sites were compliant with were held at these sites involving primary guideline values for primary contact activities. water contact.

Pools and Spas Sampling details: Sampling was conducted Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological monthly from December – March.

(Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant Results: Results of sampling of Windermere coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Beach revealed an improvement from the previous year, with no sample exceeding the Location of pools and spas: guideline levels for investigation. This in turn 1. Beachfront at Bicheno, pool effected a classification change of water quality 2. Bicheno by the Bay, pool at the site from ‘Poor’ to Fair’. 3. East Coast Central, 2 pools, 1 spa Two samples exceeded guideline levels at Elwick Bay, however the site is not known for 4. Piermont Retreat, pool primary contact use. It has been graded as 5. Saffire Freycinet, 4 pools ‘Poor’ and is only considered suitable for 6. Swansea Beach Chalets, pool secondary contact.

7. Swansea Holiday Park, pool With the exception of GASP Red Pavilion, all 8. Wintersun Gardens Motel, pool sites added this season recorded exceedances Sampling details: Sampling frequency varied of Guideline levels. from: none at Sites 3 and 4, twice at Sites 7 Comments: The recreational sampling and 8, three times at Sites 1 and 6 to monthly conducted by council is part of the Derwent at Sites 2 and 5. Estuary Sampling Program. Council has George Town Swimming Pool developed a sampling regime and conducted a For more information contact Phillip Bingley sanitary survey to further investigate likely on (03) 6256 5050. points of contamination into the Derwent 4.14 Glenorchy City Council River. This included points located along Natural Recreational Water Bodies Faulkner’s Rivulet. Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological Permanent signs have been erected at (Enterococci). Windermere Beach and Elwick Bay advising the public that water quality is not suitable for Location of sampling sites: swimming. The sites are generally used for 1. Windermere Beach boating and fishing and the general public do not swim in these areas. 2. Elwick Bay 3. Humphreys Rivulet Where public events were planned for Sites 3 to 8, council advised event organisers of water 4. Barossa Rivulet quality. Appropriate information was also 5. GASP Orange Pavilion provided to participants of the risks 6. GASP Red Pavilion associated with primary contact at these sites.

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Pools and Spas Results: All sites were compliant with Guideline values for primary contact activities. Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological Comments: The beach catchment area of (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant Nutgrove is the focus of ongoing coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). investigations to assist in identifying possible Location of pools and spas: sources of contamination. Sites deemed not 1. Glenorchy War Memorial Pool, 50 m suitable for primary contact activities including pool Marieville Esplanade and Cornelian Bay are 2. Glenorchy War memorial Pool, wading signposted accordingly. pool Pools and Spas 3. Glenorchy War Memorial Slide Pool, pool Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological 4. Undine Pool, Rosetta, pool (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant 5. Mona Pool, Berriedale, pool coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). 6. Waterfront Lodge, Lutana, pool Location of pools and spas: 7. Riverfront Motel & Villas, pool 1. Bay View Villas, Poets Road, 1 pool George Town Swimming Pool Sampling details: Sampling was undertaken 2. Club Salamanca, Gladstone Street, monthly from December – March, with the 1pool, 1 spa exception of Site 6, that was sampled once during this period. 3. Doone Kennedy Hobart Aquatic Centre, Davies Avenue, 3 pools, 1 spa For more information visit the council’s website (www.gcc.tas.gov.au) or call Alex 4. Friends Health & Fitness, Elizabeth St, 1 Woodward on (03) 6216 6790. pool, 1 spa 4.15 Hobart City Council 5. Jodi Harrison Swim Centre, new Town

Natural Recreational Water Bodies Road, 2 pools, 1 spa 6. Lambert Avenue Pool, Lambert Avenue, Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological (Enterococci). 1 pool 7. Rydges Hotel, Argyle St, 1 pool Location of sampling sites: 8. Salamanca Inn, Gladstone St, 1 pool, 1 1. Nutgrove Beach (2 sites) spa 2. Little Sandy Bay Beach (2 sites) 9. Savoy Baths, Elizabeth St, 1 pool, 2 spas 3. Marieville Esplanade 10. St Michaels Collegiate, Macquarie St, 1 4. Cornelian Bay pool Sampling details: The swimming beaches of 11. Wrest point, Sandy Bay Road, 1 pool, 1 Nutgrove (two sites) and Little Sandy Bay spa (two sites) were sampled weekly from December - March as part of the Derwent Sampling details: Sampling was conducted Estuary Program. Samples were also collected monthly from December - March. from Marieville Esplanade and Cornelian Bay. Results: One spa was closed briefly following two successive failed sample results. It was

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reopened following corrective action and two Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological successive compliant results of resampling. (Enterococci).

For more information contact Mark Dwyer on Location of sampling sites: (03) 6238 2737. 1. Lake Barrington – Kentish Park 4.16 Huon Valley Council 2. Lake Barrington – Rowing Course Natural Recreational Water Bodies Sampling details: Sampling was conducted Comments: The statutory requirement to monthly from November – April. conduct recreational water sampling is no Results: All sample sites were compliant with longer in place, as approval to cease sampling guideline values for primary contact activities. was obtained in 2012 from the Director of Public Health. However, council continues to Comments: Council monitors Lake monitor its beaches and respond to Barrington at Kentish Park (which is a complaints, issues or concerns the public may popular site for water skiing) and the have regarding water quality. International Rowing Course. Swimming advisory signs are in place at Dover Pools and Spas Beach, Randalls Bay and Verona Sands advising Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological the public of potential contamination, due to outfalls from nearby lagoons, following rainfall (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant events. coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Pools and Spas Location of pools and spas:

Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological 1. Cradle Mountain Hotel, Cradle mountain,1spa (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). 2. Sheffield School Railton Campus, pool 3. Silver Ridge Retreat, pool Location of pools and spas: 4. Waldheim Spa, Peppers Lodge, Cradle 1. Hastings Caves Pool, Hastings Caves, Mountain – 1pool, 1 spa pool Sampling details: Sampling was conducted 2. Huonville Swimming Pool, Huonville, monthly from December - March or when pool open. 3. Port Huon Swimming Pool, Port Huon, For more information contact Ms Georgina pool Crantock on (03) 6491 2500.

Sampling details: Sampling was conducted 4.18 Kingborough Council monthly from December – March and all Natural Recreational Water Bodies other months when pools were open. Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological For more information contact Scott Edwards (Enterococci). on (03) 6264 0355. Location of sampling sites: 4.17 Kentish Council 1. Blackmans Bay Beach Natural Recreational Water Bodies 2. Blackmans Bay Beach South

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3. Kingston Beach (North) (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). 4. Kingston Beach (Middle) Location of pools and spas: 5. Kingston Beach (South) 1. Beach Orchard Health & Recreation 6. Centre, Margate, 1 pool,1 spa 7. Beach 2. Kingston Pool, Kingston, pool 8. Hinsby Beach 3. Woodbridge Pool, Woodbridge Hill 9. Howden – Wingara Road Road, pool 10. Snug Beach Sampling details: Sampling was conducted 11. Margate – Dru Point monthly throughout the year. For more information contact Abyilene 12. Woodbridge-Silverwater Park McGuire on (03) 6211 8255. 13. Conningham Beach 14. Tinderbox Beach 4.19 King Island Council 15. Middleton Beach Natural Recreational Water Bodies

16. Nebraska Beach The recreational sampling program was conducted on a risk assessment basis. Due to 17. Alonnah Beach the absence of pollution sources and the 18. Quiet Corner generally good water quality of the recreational areas, sampling was not 19. Adventure Bay Beach undertaken. 20. Simmonds Beach Pools and Spas

Sampling details: Sites 1 – 8 were sampled Council did not advise of any publically weekly from December – March, Sites 9 – 15 accessible pools or spas in the municipality. monthly and Sites 16 – 20 in December and February. For more information contact James Wood on (03) 6462 1177. Results: All sample sites were compliant with guideline values for primary contact activities, 4.20 Latrobe Council with the exception of Browns River. Natural Recreational Water bodies Comments: Warning signs have been placed Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological at Browns River to advise the public that the (Enterococci). water may not be suitable for primary contact. Recreational water quality signs indicating a Location of sampling sites: water quality grading of good, ‘Fair’ or ‘Poor’ 1. – end of Shale Road remain in place at: Taroona beach (Good), Kingston beach North (Fair), Kingston beach 2. Mersey River – Bells Parade Middle (Good), Kingston Beach South (Fair) 3. Squeaking Point and Blackmans Bay Beach (Good). 4. Panatana Rivulet Pools and Spas 5. Port Sorell Pontoon Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological Page 15 of 24

6. Freer Beach – Shearwater For more information contact Ms Glenys Nichols on (03) 6421 4650. 7. Hawley Beach 5. 21 Launceston City Council Sampling details: Sampling was conducted weekly from December – March. Natural Recreational Water Bodies Results: The Mersey River at Bells Parade was Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological closed for swimming for a number of weeks as (Enterococci). three samples from this site returned results Location of sampling sites: exceeding guideline levels. Samples from the end of Shale Road site exceeded guideline 1. Corra Linn levels on two occasions, but remained open as 2. First Basin, Catchment resamples were compliant. Sample results 3. St Leonards Picnic Ground, North Esk from sites in the Rubicon Estuary indicated water quality remained compliant throughout River Catchment the summer. 4. Waverley Lake Comments: Permanent adjustable signage has Sampling details: Sampling was conducted been erected at the Mersey River at Bells weekly from December – March. Parade to advise the public of water quality. Results: All sites were compliant with Pools and Spas guideline values for primary contact activities. Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological Comments: Permanent signage is in place at (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant all sites with lockable ‘flip down’ warnings. coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). These can be adjusted if sample results exceed guideline values and again in turn when Location of pools and spas: samples return compliant results.

1. Rubicon Swim School, Latrobe, pool Pools and Spas 2. Tudor Cabins, Northdown, pool Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological 3. Latrobe Swimming Pool, Latrobe, pool (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant 4. Shearwater Resort, Shearwater, 2 coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). pools, 1 spa Location of pools and spas: 5. Strathdevon Aged Care, Latrobe, 1. Australian Maritime College, Newnham hydrotherapy pool, Pool, pool 6. Lotus Waters Wellness Centre Spa, 2. Brent Wrankmore Swim School, Shearwater, spa Launceston, pool Sampling details: Sampling was conducted 3. Glen Dhu Pool, South Launceston, monthly when pools were open. pool Results: On two occasions a spa was closed 4. Glenara Lakes Pool and Spa, following two consecutive non-compliant Youngtown, 1 pool, 1 spa results. In both instances corrective action 5. Just Swim, Kings Meadows, pool was taken and the spa reopened following receipt of two consecutive compliant results, as per the guideline requirements. Page 16 of 24

6. Launceston Aquatic Centre, warning against primary contact activities was Launceston, 6 pools, 1 spa erected at these sites in late March. 7. Launceston Church Grammar, East Pools and Spas Launceston, pool Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological 8. Launceston College Pool and Spa, (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant Launceston, 1 pool, 1 spa coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). 9. Launceston Swim School, South Location of pools and spas: Launceston, pool 1. Country Club Casino, Prospect vale, 1 10. Newstead Heights Pool, Newstead, pool, 1 spa pool 2. Caveside Pool, Caveside, pool 11. Olde Tudor pool and Spa, Launceston, 3. Deloraine Pool, Deloraine, pool pool 4. Deloraine Primary School, Deloraine, 12. Sacred Heart Pool, Launceston, pool pool 13. St Patricks College Pool, Launceston 5. Mole Creek Pool, pool 14. Village family Motor Inn, South Sampling details: Sampling was conducted Launceston, 1 pool, 1 spa monthly throughout the year or when open. Sampling details: Sampling was conducted Results: Spa results exceeded guideline limits monthly, when sites were open. on a number of occasions and the spa closed on three occasions. For more information contact Debbie Fortuin on (03) 6323 3261. Comments: The spa was closed upon confirmation of two consecutive noncompliant 4.22 Meander Valley Council results. In all cases corrective action was Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological undertaken and the spa reopened following (Enterococci). notification of two consecutive compliant results. The spa was closed on one occasion in response to two non-compliant results. It was reopened following corrective action and two consecutive compliant results. Location of sampling sites 1. Blackstone Heights – Lake Trevallyn For more information contact Katie Proctor (03) 6393 5339. 2. Bracknell Picnic Area – 4.23 Northern Midlands Council 3. Egmont Bridge – Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological 4. Hadspen Picnic Area – South Esk River (Enterococci). Location of sampling sites: Sampling details: Sampling was conducted weekly from December – March. 1. Rotary Park, Leighlands Road, Evandale, South Esk River Results: Guideline limits were exceeded on a number of occasions at all sites. 2. Mill Dam Reserve, Longford, South Esk

Comments: In response to ongoing elevated River sample results at Blackstone Heights and 3. William Street Reserve, Perth, South Bracknell Picnic Area, public advisory signage Esk River

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Sampling details: Sampling was conducted Sampling details: Sampling was conducted fortnightly from December – March. weekly from December – February and fortnightly in March. Results: With the exception of non-compliant results at Evandale in mid-January, all sites Results: All sampling sites were compliant were compliant for primary contact through with guideline limits for primary contact the sampling period till mid-February. All sites activities. then exceeded guideline limits for primary Comments: In accordance with the contact in mid-February. guidelines, water quality at Sites 1 – 4 was Comments: Non-compliances were at times rated as ‘Good’. Red Orche Beach South associated with rain events. In mid-February showed an improvement from a rating of appropriate signage was put in place at all sites ‘Poor’ in the previous season and Tigerhead warning against primary contact activities Beach was rated as ‘Moderate’. following rain events. While the impact of high rainfall and Pools and Spas stormwater on sample results have been identified in previous seasons, this was less Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological apparent during 2014 - 2015. (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant Signs have been erected at all sample sites to coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). warn the public against swimming after heavy Location of pools and spas: rain. 1. Campbell Town Pool, Campbell Town, Pools and Spas pool Council did not advise of any publically 2. Cressy Pool, Cressy, pool accessible pools or spas in the municipality.

3. Ross Pool, Ross, pool For more information contact Greg Sampling details: Sampling was conducted Robertson on (03) 6269 0041. weekly, when open. 4.25 Southern Midlands Council For more information contact Chris Wicks on Natural Recreational Water Bodies (03) 6397 7313. No monitoring of natural recreational waters 4.24 Sorell Council was conducted by the Southern Midlands Natural Recreational Water Bodies Council throughout 2014 – 2015.

Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological Pools and Spas (Enterococci). Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological Location of sampling sites: (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). 1. Park Beach Location of pools and spas: 2. Primrose Beach 1. Oatlands Swimming Pool, Oatlands, 3. Red Ochre Beach North pool 4. Red Ochre Beach South Sampling: Sampling was conducted on two 5. Tigerhead Beach, boat ramp occasions in November. 6. Tigerhead Beach, Seventh Ave

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For more information contact Leon 4. Sisters Beach McGuiness on (03) 6259 3011 5. Sister Creek 4.26 Tasman Council 6. Somerset Beach Natural Recreational Water Bodies Sampling details: Sampling was conducted weekly at Sisters Creek and and Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological monthly at the remaining sites, from (Enterococci). November – March. Location of sampling sites: Results: Sampling sites were compliant with 1. Nubeena Foreshore guideline values for primary contact activities, 2. Shelley Beach with the exception of Sisters Creek where elevated levels were present throughout the 3. Stewarts Bay sampling period. 4. White Beach, southern end between Comments: Permanent warning signs are in lagoon outlets place at Sisters Creek advising the public that Sampling details: Sampling was conducted the water is unsuitable for primary contact. monthly from January – March, with the Pools and Spas exception of Site 2, which was sampled twice due to occupational health and safety Location of pools and spas: concerns. 1. Leisure Ville Caravan Park, East Results: Sampling sites were compliant with Wynyard, 1 pool, 1 spa guideline values for primary contact activities. 2. Wescombe’s Leisure and Therapy Comments: Warning signs remain in place at Centre, Somerset, 1 pool, 1 spa outfall creeks at Parsons Bay and Stewarts 3. Wynyard Fitness, Wynyard, 1 pool, 1 Bay based on a history of poor results. A review of all sampling sites is planned for spa November 2015. Sampling: Bacteriological sampling was not conducted. Pools and Spas

Council did not advise of any publically For more information contact David Kleyweg accessible pools or spas in the municipality. on (03) 6443 8342. For more information contact Karen Loone 4.28 West Coast Council on (03) 6250 9200. Natural Recreational Water Bodies 4.27 Waratah/Wynyard Council Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological Natural Recreational Water Bodies (Enterococci). Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological Location of sampling site: (Enterococci). 1. West Strahan Beach Location of sampling sites: Sampling details: Sampling was conducted 1. Boat Harbour Beach weekly sampling from December – March. 2. Cam River Somerset Results: The sample site complied with the 3. East Wynyard Beach guideline values for primary contact activities.

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Comments: A single elevated result in early Results: All sites were compliant with January followed a rain event after an guideline values for primary contact activities. extended dry period. Resampling returned Comments: Although occasional elevated compliant results and closure was not results were detected, re-sampling showed a warranted. return to acceptable conditions. There were Pools and Spas no warning signs placed at any sampling sites during the reporting season. Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological Pools and Spas (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological

Location of pools and spas: (Heterotrophic Plate Count, Thermotolerant 1. Queenstown Swimming Pool, coliforms/E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Queenstown, pool Location of pools and spas:

2. Rosebery Swimming pool, Rosebery, 1. Beaconsfield Primary School Pool, pool Beaconfield, pool 3. Zeehan Swimming Pool, Zeehan, pool 2. Big4 Kelso Sands Holiday Park, pool 3. Gravelly Beach Swim Centre, pool Sampling: Sampling was conducted monthly from October – March. 4. Riverside Swim Centre, Riverside, 2 For more information contact Paddy Kennedy pools on (03) 6471 4715. 5. Tamar Cove Motel, Beauty Point, pool 4.29 West Tamar Council 6. Tamar Valley Resort, Grindlewald, 1 pool, 1 spa Natural Recreational Water Bodies Sampling: Sampling was conducted monthly Type of sampling conducted: Bacteriological from December – March and other months (Enterococci). when pools and spas were open. A single Location of sampling sites: sample was taken from Site 5. 1. Beauty Point For more information contact Rick 2. Deviot Chippindall on (03) 6323 9300. 3. Gravelly Beach 4. Greens Beach 5. Kelso 6. Paper Beach 7. Redbill Point 8. Rosevears 9. Lake Trevallyn Sampling details: Sampling was conducted weekly from December – March.

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5. DISCUSSION The community should note that heavy rainfall events affect the water quality of recreational It is the 14th year of reporting on recreational areas from time to time, especially near storm water quality in Tasmania. water outfalls. This is due to contaminants on Most Councils reported having active the land being washed into the water with the recreational water quality monitoring heavy rainfall. programs for the beaches and rivers within People should avoid swimming near storm their municipalities. water outfalls (if water is flowing). They Exceptions to this were King Island Council should also avoid swimming for a few days and Huon Valley Council. King Island Council’s after rain in urban areas, where pollution run- application of a risk based approach identified off is likely. a general absence of readily identifiable diffuse Most councils also reported having monitoring and/or point sources of pollution or areas programs for publically accessible pools and where the general public swim. Huon Valley spas. Where guideline values were exceeded, Council sought and was granted approval to resampling and subsequent corrective action cease sampling in 2012. They have instead was undertaken. erected public health warning signage at identified swimming beaches and continue to respond to complaints, issues or public Dr Mark Veitch concerns regarding water quality. Acting Director of Public Health In those locations where monitoring programs have indicated that swimming is not advisable, Councils have erected appropriate public health warning signage.

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DEFINITIONS “Agency” means an Agency within the meaning of the Tasmanian State Service Act 2000.

“Authorised Officer”means – a) The Director; or b) A medical officer of health; or c) An environmental health officer. “Controlling Authority” means an Agency, public authority or person managing or in control of water. “Council” means a council with the meaning of the Local Government Act 1993.

“Director of Public Health” means the Director of Public Health appointed under section 6 of the Public Health Act 1997. “Environmental Health Officer” means a person appointed under section 10 or 11 of the Public Health Act 1997. “E.coli (Escherichia coli)” is a bacterium found in the gut of warm blooded animals (including humans), used as an indicator of faecal contamination of water.

“Enterococci” is a group of bacteria common to the faecal matter of warm-blooded animals, including humans. It is commonly used as an indicator of faecal contamination of estuarine and marine water bodies. “Heterotrophic Plate Count (or Standard Plate Count)” is a measure of the overall bacteriological quality of water, used in conjunction with other bacterial indicator species. “Natural recreational water body” includes any coastal and estuarine water (including tidal washed pools and marine baths that interchange with seawater), natural fresh water environs such as rivers or streams, lakes, weirs and dams but not public pools and spas.

“Public spa pool” means a pool or other water-retaining structure for human use that incorporates, or is connected to equipment that is capable of heating any water contained in it and injecting air bubbles or water into it under pressure so as to cause general disturbance in the water, to which the general public has access (whether for payment or fee or not), or which is for the general use of guests in tourist accommodation, other than: a) a spa pool; or b) a tidal pool or other similar structure where water flows in and out according to the operation of natural forces

“Public swimming pool” includes any swimming pool, waterslide, wave pool, hydrotherapy pool or other similar structure to which the general public has access (whether for payment of a fee or not), or which is for the general use of guests in tourist accommodation, other than: a) A spa pool; or b) A tidal pool or other similar structure where water flows in and out according to the operation of natural forces. Page 22 of 24

“Primary contact activity” means an activity in which the whole body or face and trunk are immersed or the face is frequently wet by spray. It is likely that some water will be swallowed or inhaled or come into contact with ears, nasal passages, mucus membranes or cuts in the skin. (Examples include swimming, diving, surfing or whitewater canoeing.) “Psuedomonas aeruginosa” is a bacterium common in water, soil and the environment and if inadequately disinfected, in swimming pools and spas. If present in high numbers in pool and spa water it can cause infections of the skin, ear, urinary and respiratory tracts, wounds and cornea.

“Recreational water” includes any coastal and estuarine water (including tidal washed pools and marine baths that interchange with seawater), natural fresh water environs such as rivers or streams, lakes, weirs and dams, and public pools and public spas. “Sanitary inspection” means an inspection carried out in accordance with section 5.4.1 of the National Health and Medical Research Council’s Guidelines for Managing Risks in Recreational Water. “Secondary contact activity” means an activity in which only the limbs are frequently wet and swallowing water is unusual. Examples include boating, fishing and wading, where occasional immersion may occur.

“Swimming season” means the months of December, January, February and March. “Threat to public health” means any event or circumstance which is likely to – a) Damage, injure or compromise public health; or b) Prevent or restrict the improvement of public health. “Thermotolerant Coliform bacteria” means a class of bacterium often referred to as faecal coliforms that is often used as an indicator of water quality in conjunction with other bacterial indicator species.

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REFERENCES

National Health and Medical Research Council 2008. Guidelines for Managing Risks in Recreational Water. Available at www.nhmrc.gov.au/publications/synopses/eh38.htm

Department of Health & Human Services 2007. Recreational Water Quality Guidelines. Available at www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0014/53321/2007_RWQG.pdf

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