&KDSWHU 7KH+DUERXUZDWFK3URJUDP
Background tables of compliance. Bacterial results for each site within the catchment for summer The Harbourwatch Program was established 1999–2000 are presented graphically as box in November 1994 to monitor and report on plots, with the current season’s results water quality in the harbour, bay and shaded in grey for ease of identification and estuarine areas of Sydney. Before this, a pilot for comparison with other sites and Harbour Beaches Monitoring Program was catchment areas. conducted by Beachwatch from May 1992 to July 1993. Swimming site reports Water quality monitoring and reporting The swimming site pages give a brief description of the site, an assessment of The Harbourwatch Program monitors and water quality over the season, any pollution reports on water quality at 61 swimming sources that can affect the site, and any sites within nine catchment areas: Pittwater, pollution reduction actions taking place. Middle Harbour, North Harbour, lower Water quality data is presented in three Lane Cove River, lower Parramatta River, sections: Port Jackson, lower Georges River, Botany • An assessment of the level of compliance Bay and Port Hacking. over the last five years The Harbourwatch daily reporting program • The effect of rainfall on bacterial uses rainfall data and sewer overflow densities. This information is based on information for daily assessment of harbour aggregated data from the last three years beaches and swimming enclosures. Monthly (including winter season data). reports are based on bacterial water quality. • Individual results, rainfall and the rolling Sample Collection compliance with water quality criteria are Beachwatch staff collect water samples at all presented as timeseries plots, giving an sites every sixth day in accordance with overview of water quality throughout NHMRC guidelines for recreational use of summer 1999–2000 and the preceding water. All samples are transported to one winter season (1999). laboratory for microbiological analysis. New Sites Chapter Structure Sampling at Chiswick Baths in the lower The results of the Harbourwatch bacterial Parramatta River commenced in February sampling program are presented in this 1999. Two popular swimming sites on the chapter. So that the characteristics of each western side of Pittwater, The Basin and beach and the nature of pollution sources Great Mackerel Beach, were added to the can be readily understood, the format of this Harbourwatch Program at the start of chapter is geographically based and collates summer 1999–2000. The monitoring relevant information on catchment and program in Port Hacking was also expanded swimming site pages. at the start of summer 1999–2000 to include Catchment reports Lilli Pilli Baths, Gymea Bay Baths, Horderns Beach and Jibbon Beach. The catchment pages give an overview of water quality at all monitored sites within the catchment area and are presented as
The Harbourwatch Program 145 Sydney Metropolitan Harbour Swimming Sites
PITTWATER
Warringah MIDDLE HARBOUR Ku-ring-gai LANE COVE Manly RIVER Willoughby NORTH HARBOUR PARRAMATTA RIVER Lane Cove North Mosman Sydney TASMAN
SEA PORT JACKSON
Drummoyne Leichhardt Sydney Ashfield Woollahra
Randwick
Botany Rockdale
Hurstville Kogarah BOTANY BAY
GEORGES RIVER
Sutherland N
0 3 6
KilometresKilometers PORT HACKING
146 The Harbourwatch Program Sydney Metropolitan Harbour Swimming Sites
Summary to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park rather than densely populated residential areas. As discussed in Chapter 3, ‘The Beachwatch Program’, for the second summer in a row Faecal coliform compliance Sydney received above-average rainfall. This All 11 Pittwater swimming sites complied resulted in widespread pollution from 100 per cent with faecal coliform criteria for stormwater and sewer overflows that summer 1999–2000. affected a number of Sydney harbour swimming sites. This compares favourably with the previous summer (1998–1999) when four sites, Most of the rain fell in two months, when Paradise Beach Baths, Clareville Beach, Salt over half the total rainfall for summer 1999– Pan Cove Baths and Winji Jimmi Bay, all 2000 was recorded. October 1999 was the recorded less than 100 per cent compliance wettest October in 12 years with March 2000 with faecal coliform criteria. being the wettest March in 16 years. Enterococci compliance Despite the wet season, 21 harbour swimming sites recorded an improvement in Historically compliance with enterococci faecal coliform compliance compared to the criteria has been lower than for faecal previous summer, and 38 sites an coliform compliance. This trend continued improvement in enterococci compliance. this year although six Pittwater beaches recorded an improvement in enterococci A dramatic improvement in water quality compliance compared with the previous was recorded at Gunnamatta Bay Baths in summer season (1998–1999). These sites Port Hacking. Enterococci compliance has were Barrenjoey Beach, Paradise Beach increased from zero per cent in 1998–1999 to Baths, Clareville Beach, Salt Pan Cove Baths, 71 per cent compliance with national health Winji Jimmi Bay and Bayview Baths, guidelines in summer 1999–2000 (faecal although enterococci compliance at Bayview coliform compliance increased from 84 per Baths was still low. cent to 90 per cent). North and South Scotland Island as well as Darling Harbour continued to record the Elvina Bay recorded a slight decrease in lowest compliance levels in the enterococci compliance over the previous Harbourwatch program. summer.
Cleanest harbour swimming sites Middle Harbour
Despite the wet summer, The Basin and Faecal coliform compliance Great Mackerel Beach in Pittwater, Chinamans Beach in Middle Harbour, Four out of the eight Middle Harbour Frenchmans Bay and Congwong Bay in swimming sites monitored by Botany Bay, and Lilli Pilli Bay Baths in Port Harbourwatch recorded 100 per cent Hacking all achieved 100 per cent compliance with faecal coliform criteria for compliance with recreational water quality summer 1999–2000. These sites were criteria for the entire 1999–2000 summer Northbridge Baths, Clontarf Pool, season. Chinamans Beach and Balmoral Baths. Although Davidson Reserve (94%), Gurney Pittwater Crescent Baths (94%), Sangrado Baths (84%) Monitoring at The Basin and Great Mackerel and Edwards Beach (94%) recorded lower Beach commenced this year as part of the compliance levels for faecal coliforms than Harbourwatch Program. These two beaches the other Middle Harbour swimming sites, were among the cleanest in the entire the results were still high. Harbourwatch program. This may be attributed to the fact that they are adjacent
The Harbourwatch Program 147 Enterococci compliance with faecal coliform criteria although compliance was still high at 87 per cent. Six of the eight Middle Harbour swimming sites recorded an improvement in Enterococci compliance enterococci compliance over the previous Compliance with enterococci criteria at summer season (1998–1999). Woodford Bay and Woolwich Baths Chinamans Beach was the only site in increased by over 30-percentage points from Middle Harbour to record 100 per cent the previous season. A slight decrease in compliance for both indicators (faecal enterococci compliance was recorded at coliforms and enterococci), making Tambourine Bay, resulting in low Chinamans Beach one of the cleanest in the compliance at 39 per cent. Harbourwatch program. Stormwater drains discharge alongside the Compliance with enterococci criteria at pool in Tambourine Bay and a sewer Davidson Reserve (42%) and Sangrado Baths overflow can discharge into the bay during (28%) was down on last year and was low. wet weather. Waters from the upper Lane Water quality at these sites can be affected Cove River also affect water quality. by stormwater and sewer overflows in Middle Harbour after intense rainfall. Lower Parramatta River
North Harbour Chiswick Baths was included in the Harbourwatch program in February 1999. Faecal coliform compliance This is the first Beachwatch and Harbourwatch report to include compliance All four North Harbour sites complied 100 levels at Chiswick Baths. per cent with faecal coliform criteria for summer 1999–2000. An improvement in Faecal coliform compliance water quality was recorded at Forty Baskets Dawn Fraser Pool and Greenwich Baths both Pool this summer. recorded 100 per cent compliance with Enterococci compliance faecal coliform criteria for summer 1999– 2000. This was a 19-percentage point All North Harbour sites recorded an increase in compliance for Greenwich Baths improvement in enterococci compliance in compared to the previous summer season. summer 1999–2000 compared to the previous summer (1998–1999). Fairlight Compliance at Cabarita Beach and Henley Beach recorded a 40-percentage point Baths was slightly higher than the previous increase in enterococci compliance this year summer. Faecal coliform compliance at with Manly Cove recording a 68-percentage Chiswick Baths was 88 per cent. point improvement over last summer. Compliance levels at Darling Harbour (35%) Although Little Manly Cove recorded a 4- continue to decrease, with the site recording percentage point increase in enterococci a 31-percentage point decrease in compliance this summer, overall compliance compliance compared to summer 1998–1999. was still low at 48 per cent. A large There are small pockets of old combined stormwater drain discharges to the western sewers that carry both sewage and end of the beach. stormwater and overflow to Darling Harbour. Sydney Water and local councils Lower Lane Cove River are identifying any remaining areas where Faecal coliform compliance the old sewerage and stormwater systems are still combined. Results for faecal coliform compliance at the swimming sites monitored in the lower Lane The sewers will be separated from these Cove River were similar to last year. A slight combined systems and this should improve increase in compliance was recorded at Darling Harbour water quality. Sydney Tambourine Bay and Woodford Bay with Water is also undertaking closed circuit Woolwich Baths recording a slight decrease television inspections of sewers in the
148 The Harbourwatch Program catchment to identify and repair any cracks although compliance levels were an and leaks. improvement on last year’s results. Enterococci compliance Stormwater drains discharge within the vicinity of the swimming area within Little Compliance with enterococci criteria at Sirius Cove and water quality may also be swimming sites in the lower Parramatta affected by a sewer overflow in the River were generally down on the previous catchment. Taronga Zoo’s wastewater summer, although two sites, Henley Baths treatment plant discharges some tertiary and Dawn Fraser Pool recorded a slight treated wastewater off Little Sirius Point. increase in enterococci compliance. Stormwater drains discharge in the vicinity Enterococci compliance at Chiswick Baths of the swimming area in Rose Bay. was low at 44 per cent. Greenwich Baths (35%) recorded an 18- Lower Georges River percentage point decrease in compliance. Darling Harbour (16%) recorded the overall Faecal coliform compliance lowest enterococci compliance out of all sites Carss Point Baths, Sandringham Baths and monitored in the Harbourwatch program. Dolls Point Baths all recorded 100 per cent compliance with faecal coliform criteria for Port Jackson summer 1999–2000. Faecal coliform compliance Compliance at the remaining swimming sites was still high although Jew Fish Bay Hayes Street Beach, Clifton Gardens, Rose Baths decreased in compliance from 100 per Bay Beach, Nielsen Park and Parsley Bay all cent in summer 1998–99 to 90 per cent in recorded 100 per cent compliance with summer 1999–2000. faecal coliform criteria for summer 1999– 2000. Enterococci compliance Although Little Sirius Cove (87%), Little Sandringham Baths (97%) and Dolls Point Sirius Point (97%), Redleaf Pool (90%) and Baths (94%) were the two cleanest sites Watsons Bay (90%) recorded lower monitored in the lower Georges River, with compliance levels for faecal coliforms than both sites recording improvements in water the other Port Jackson swimming sites, quality compared to the previous summer compliance was still high. season (1998–99). Enterococci compliance The other four sites, Jew Fish Bay Baths, Como Baths, Oatley Bay Baths and Carss All nine swimming sites monitored in Port Point Baths all recorded a decrease in Jackson recorded an increase in enterococci enterococci compliance this season. compliance over the previous summer Compliance was especially low at Como season (1998–1999). Baths (23%). Clifton Gardens recorded a 50-percentage Stormwater drains discharge in the vicinity point increase in compliance with of Jew Fish Bay, Como Baths, Oatley Bay and enterococci criteria, with Parsley Bay and Carss Point Baths. Waters from the Hayes Street Beach recording a 40- Woronora River may also affect water percentage point or greater increase in quality at Como Baths and septic tank compliance. seepage from several unsewered properties Clifton Gardens (81%), Nielsen Park (77%) in Como may be a source of pollution as and Parsley Bay (77%) recorded the highest well. Sewer overflows discharge into Oatley compliance with enterococci criteria for Port Bay during wet weather and sewer Jackson for summer 1999–2000. overflows can discharge into Kogarah Bay during wet weather. Little Sirius Cove (55%) and Little Sirius Point (42%) as well as Rose Bay Beach (56%) recorded low enterococci compliance,
The Harbourwatch Program 149 Botany Bay this was a 6-percentage point improvement over the previous season and compliance Faecal coliform compliance was still high.
Eight of the nine Botany Bay swimming sites Enterococci compliance recorded 100 per cent compliance with faecal coliform criteria. Brighton-Le-Sands Lilli Pilli Bay Baths was the only site in Port Baths and Kyeemagh Baths both recorded an Hacking to record 100 per cent compliance increase in compliance compared to the for both indicators (faecal coliforms and previous season. enterococci). Jibbon Beach was the only other site to record compliance above 80 per Foreshores Beach (61%) recorded a 17- cent for enterococci. percentage point decrease in faecal coliform compliance compared to last year. The most dramatic improvement in water quality this year was at Gunnamatta Bay Stormwater drains discharge along the Baths. Enterococci compliance at the baths length of Foreshores Beach. Sewer overflows increased from zero per cent in 1998–99 to 71 discharge into Mill Pond Diversion Channel per cent in 1999–2000. This followed a joint at the western end of the beach and investigation by Sutherland Shire Council industrial and urban runoff discharge into and Sydney Water to identify and resolve Penrhyn estuary at the eastern end of the water pollution problems in Gunnamatta beach. Bay. Sewage infiltration into the stormwater Enterococci compliance system was identified, resulting in an extensive program by Sydney Water to Frenchmans Bay and Congwong Bay were reline the sewerage pipes in the region. among the cleanest sites monitored, recording 100 per cent compliance for both Gymea Bay Baths and Horderns Beach both indicators (faecal coliforms and enterococci) recorded less than 70 per cent compliance for the entire 1999–2000 summer season. with enterococci criteria. Silver Beach also recorded high compliance Stormwater discharge from the surrounding with recreational water quality criteria. residential area into Gymea Bay is a South Ramsgate Baths, Brighton-Le-Sands potential source of pollution. Bundeena is an Baths, Kymeeagh Baths and Yarra Bay all unsewered village. Septic seepage to the recorded improvements in water quality nearby creek and to Horderns Beach is a compared to the previous season. Results for potential source of pollution. Stormwater North Ramsgate Baths was similar to last discharge into Bundeena Bay is also a year (77%). potential source of pollution. Foreshores Beach (48%) recorded the lowest Plans for improvement compliance with enterococci criteria for Botany Bay. The State Government has committed $3 billion as part of its Waterways Package Port Hacking which identifies a series of goals to solve urban wastewater and stormwater problems Monitoring at Lilli Pilli Bay Baths, Gymea in NSW. Bay Baths, Horderns Beach and Jibbon Beach commenced this year as part of the Northside Storage Tunnel Harbourwatch program. Lilli Pilli Bay Baths Construction has commenced on the was among the cleanest sites monitored by Northside Storage Tunnel, which is Harbourwatch. predicted to reduce the number of sewage Faecal coliform compliance overflows by 80–90 per cent from four of the largest overflow sites discharging into The four new sites listed above all recorded Sydney Harbour. These overflows are 100 per cent compliance with faecal coliform located at Lane Cove, Quakers Hat Bay, criteria. Gunnamatta Bay Baths (90%) was Tunks Park and Scotts Creek. Sydney Water the only monitored Port Hacking site to expects the tunnel to be completed in 2000, record less than 100 per cent compliance, but storing and transporting the overflows to the
150 The Harbourwatch Program North Head Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) stormwater pollution more effectively on a for treatment, and increasing the ability of catchment basis. the STP to treat wet-weather flows. Sydney Water was directed by the EPA to Upper Georges River wastewater strategy produce a Stormwater Environment Improvement Program (SEIP) in Investigations are currently under way into consultation with local councils. The aim of the first stage of the Upper Georges River the program is to improve the management wastewater strategy. This includes the of stormwater within each of the 17 construction of a reuse pipeline, due to be catchments in which Sydney Water has operational by 2004, which will provide stormwater infrastructure. benefits to wet-weather overflow performance in the Georges River. Sydney The Urban Stormwater Education Program Water has proposed a wet-weather overflow (USEP) is an integral part of the Waterways target of 40 events per 10 years for this Package and is supported by the NSW catchment (Sydney Water Corporation Government’s Stormwater Trust. The 1999). USEP’s objectives are to promote community awareness, knowledge and Sewage overflows understanding of the extent and causes of Sydney Water has completed 27 stormwater problems; promote new norms Environmental Impact Statements (EISs), of community behaviour that improve one for each sewerage system in the Sydney stormwater quality; facilitate behavioural region. Community assessment of the EISs change by promoting simple, practical ways has been completed. The EPA used for particular groups and individuals in the community views and the options in the community to reduce stormwater pollution; EISs to consider the best way to place legally and build the community’s capacity to binding conditions (licences) on Sydney undertake activities that improve Water to protect the environment from stormwater quality. sewer overflows and to ensure continuous The USEP integrates a range of intervention improvement. strategies, including mass media, The Overflow Abatement Program is community and school education, vocational Sydney Water’s umbrella coordination and education and training, and a variety of delivery program which will deliver the partnership projects in key sectors. The required works and activities under the program will be linked closely to licences. stormwater programs and activities conducted by a variety of other An interim infiltration/exfiltration program organisations, including local, State and non- is being implemented to reduce sewage government agencies. overflows to sensitive environments. Closed- circuit television inspections and smoke testing were conducted for 500 kilometres of sewer in Manly, Homebush Bay, Lane Cove and Bondi.
Stormwater The State Government’s $60 million Stormwater Program for local councils and other stormwater managers will continue to improve the quality of stormwater. Councils have been directed by the EPA to develop stormwater management plans in partnership with neighbouring councils and other stakeholders such as Sydney Water and the Roads and Traffic Authority. These plans will help councils to manage
The Harbourwatch Program 151 Figure 20: Compliance of Harbourwatch Sites during Summer 1999–2000: Pittwater, Lower Georges River, Botany Bay and Port Hacking
Faecal coliforms Enterococci
Pittwater
Barrenjoey Beach 100 81
Paradise Beach Baths 100 74
Clareville Beach 100 90
Salt Pan Cove Baths 100 81
Winji Jimmi Bay 100 74
Bayview Baths 100 52
North Scotland Island 100 87
South Scotland Island 100 81
Elvina Bay 100 77
The Basin 100 100
Great Mackerel Beach 100 100
Lower Georges River
Jew Fish Bay Baths 90 61
Como Baths 94 23
Oatley Bay Baths 94 35
Carss Point Baths 100 48
Sandringham Baths 100 97
Dolls Point Baths 100 94
Botany Bay
North Ramsgate Baths 100 77
South Ramsgate Baths 100 68
Brighton-Le-Sands Baths 100 87
Kyeemagh Baths 100 90
Foreshores Beach 61 48
Yarra Bay 100 84
Frenchmans Bay 100 100
Congwong Bay 100 100
Silver Beach 100 97
Port Hacking
Gunnamatta Bay Baths 90 71
Lilli Pilli Bay Baths 100 100
Gymea Bay Baths 100 58
Horderns Beach 100 61
Jibbon Beach 100 84
0 25 50 75 100125 25 15050 17575 100 200 % Compliance
152 The Harbourwatch Program Figure 21: Compliance of Harbourwatch Sites during Summer 1999–2000: Sydney Harbour
Faecal coliforms Enterococci
Middle Harbour
Davidson Reserve 94 42
Gurney Crescent Baths 94 71
Sangrado Baths 84 28
Northbridge Baths 100 77
Clontarf Pool 100 68
Chinamans Beach 100 100
Edwards Beach 94 61
Balmoral Baths 100 68
North Harbour
Forty Baskets Pool 100 61
Fairlight Beach 100 81
Manly Cove 100 90
Little Manly Cove 100 48
Lower Lane Cove River
Tambourine Bay 84 39
Woodford Bay 84 61
Woolwich Baths 87 61
Lower Parramatta River
Cabarita Beach 84 50
Henley Baths 90 55
Chiswick Baths 88 44
Dawn Fraser Pool 100 61
Greenwich Baths 100 35
Darling Harbour 35 16
Port Jackson
Hayes Street Beach 100 65
Little Sirius Cove 87 55
Little Sirius Point 97 42
Clifton Gardens 100 81
Redleaf Pool 90 71
Rose Bay Beach 100 56
Nielsen Park 100 77
Parsley Bay 100 77
Watsons Bay 90 68
0 25 50 75 100 12525 15050 17575 100 200 % Compliance
The Harbourwatch Program 153 Pittwater
Sites: Barrenjoey Beach, Paradise Beach Baths, Clareville Beach, Salt Pan Cove Baths, Winji Jimmi Bay, Bayview Baths, North Scotland Island, South Scotland Island, Elvina Bay, The Basin and Great Mackerel Beach
Barrenjoey' Beach
Great Mackerel Beach
PALM BEACH
The Basin
PITTWATER KU-RING-GAI CHASE NATIONAL PARK
' Paradise ' Beach BathsÕ
Barrenjoey Clareville Rd
' Beach ' North Scotland ' Island
× × TASMAN × Elvina Bay SEA South Scotland
Island Salt Pan Cove Baths'
CHURCH & POINT
NEWPORT
Bayview
Sample Site Baths'
Sewer Overflows
' ' Winji Jimmi Designed Structure Overflow × Bay Undirected Overflow Stormwater Drains & Pittwater Small & Medium Rd × & Large N Ü Open Drain 0 0.5 1
Kilometres
154 The Harbourwatch Program Pittwater
Location Baths and Winji Jimmi Bay ranked equal 12th. Bayview Baths was the lowest ranked site in The Pittwater catchment covers 49 square Pittwater at 23rd. kilometres. Land use is mainly residential and bushland (including Ku-ring-gai Chase Actions to improve water quality National Park), with some commercial, light industrial and recreational. Actions specific to individual swimming sites are included on the beach pages. Pittwater Council operates in this area. Improvements in water quality will also be achieved as a result of a stormwater Compliance with guidelines management plan, Stormwater Trust grants Compliance with swimming guidelines was and other programs. varied in the Pittwater catchment during Pittwater Stormwater Management Plan summer 1999–2000 (Table 15). Pittwater Council has prepared a Faecal coliform compliance was high with stormwater management plan for the all sites complying 100 per cent of the time. Pittwater catchment. The plan identifies a Compliance for enterococci was varied and number of short-term and long-term ranged from 100 per cent of the time at The stormwater management strategies. Basin and Great Mackerel Beach to 52 per Initiatives from the plan include increased cent of the time at Bayview Baths. Relatively maintenance of existing treatment measures, high compliances (more than 80 per cent of increasing resource commitments to the time) were also recorded at Barrenjoey assessment and enforcement of development Beach, Clareville Beach, Salt Pan Cove, consent conditions, conducting community North Scotland Island and South Scotland awareness programs, and development of Island. road and sewage pollution contingency The range of indicator bacteria levels plans in consultation with Sydney Water measured at Pittwater swimming areas Corporation and the Roads and Traffic during summer 1999–2000 is shown in Authority. Figure 22. Levels of faecal coliforms are Council has previously implemented a generally low at all sites, with slightly ‘Yellow Fish’ drain-stencilling program, elevated levels of enterococci apparent at aimed at increasing stormwater awareness Bayview Baths. within the community. It has also been active in initiating community water quality Ranking of beaches monitoring in Narrabeen Creek and the All monitored harbour and ocean beach upper catchment creeks of Pittwater. swimming locations in the Hunter, Sydney Stormwater Trust grants and Illawarra regions were ranked on the Pittwater Council has been successful in basis of their compliance with swimming winning a number of grants through the guidelines during summer 1999–2000. A Stormwater Trust. These grants have total of 44 rankings was determined for the provided funding for two stormwater 131 sites, with many sites ranked equally. education campaigns aimed at improving The rankings for swimming areas in stormwater management, and increasing Pittwater are highly variable (Table 15). awareness of stormwater issues among The Basin and Great Mackerel Beach were residents and businesses in the area. ranked equal first. Barrenjoey Beach, Coast and Clean Seas Program Clareville Beach, Salt Pan Cove Baths, North Pittwater Council has also been successful in Scotland Island and South Scotland Island securing funding through the Coast and were also within the top ten rankings, with th Clean Seas Program to employ a Stormwater Elvina Bay ranked 11 and Paradise Beach Education Officer.
The Harbourwatch Program 155 Table 15: Compliance and Ranking of Pittwater Sites during Summer 1999–2000
Compliance (%) Overall Ranking Site Faecal coliforms Enterococci (out of 44) Barrenjoey Beach 100 81 10 Paradise Beach Baths 100 74 12 Clareville Beach 100 90 5 Salt Pan Cove Baths 100 81 10 Winji Jimmi Bay 100 74 12 Bayview Baths 100 52 23 North Scotland Island 100 87 7 South Scotland Island 100 81 10 Elvina Bay 100 77 11 The Basin 100 100 1 Great Mackerel Beach 100 100 1
Figure 22: Bacterial Levels at Pittwater Sites during Summer 1999–2000
10000
1000
100
10
1
y ch ch Is ch Faecal coliform Density (cfu/100 mL) (cfu/100 Density coliform Faecal ths sin d Is Bay a B Ba n nd a ille Bch v w lvin Jimmi Ba cotla E The B Scotla S ackerel Paradise B Clare ayvie th Barrenjoey B Salt Pan Cove B Nth S M Winji Gt
10000
1000
100
10
1 Enterococci Density (cfu/100 mL) (cfu/100 Density Enterococci s y ay Is ch Ba Bch i B ath B le Bch Cove B Basin ise l n land ina e iew cot lv h njoey Bch v E T rre lt Pa ji Jimm ackerel Parad Clarevi a in ay h S Ba S B Nth Scotland Is St M W Gt
156 The Harbourwatch Program Barrenjoey Beach
Description This beach is narrow, approximately 1.5 kilometres long and is located on the eastern foreshore at the northern end of Pittwater. The beach is backed by a reserve that Recreation joins Barrenjoey Beach to Palm Beach. Reserve Barrenjoey Beach ' Pollution Sources A stormwater drain discharges to the southern end of the beach. Seaplane Wharf Actions The buildings and facilities located in Governor Phillip Park were connected to Sydney Water’s sewerage
system in 1999. Governor See page 154 for key to map Philip Park Compliance Faecal coliform compliance has ranged from 38 per cent of the time to 100 per cent of the time, with higher levels of compliance measured over the last few seasons. Enterococci compliance has generally been low, with compliance during summer 1999–2000 the highest yet recorded at this site. The lower levels of enterococci measured during the summer season are also apparent in the season data plots below.
Faecal Coliforms Enterococci
100 100100 100 100 100 86 ■ winter season 81 ■ summer season 75 71 75
50 50 38 38 29
% Compliance 25 25 14 13 66 0 0 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00
Response to Rainfall Indicator bacteria levels tend to increase with increasing rainfall. Levels of faecal coliforms regularly exceed the median guideline when more than 20 mm of rain has fallen in the previous 24 hours. Levels of enterococci exceed the guideline after little or no rainfall.
10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000
100 100 − − median guidelines 10 10
1 1 Bacterial count /100 mL Bacterial count 0 - 5 -10 20 0+ 0 - 5 10 20 0+ 0 5 10 - 2 0 5 - 10 - 2 24hr Rainfall (mm) 24hr Rainfall (mm)
Season Data Enterococci 100000 Faecal Coliforms 0 L 10000 rainfall 50 100 m 100 o individual result / 1000 rolling median 100 − − count rolling 80th percentile l 100 a i 150
Guidelines are also shown 10 Rainfall (mm) Daily acter
(see page 5 for details) B 1 200 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 99 9 0 0 99 99 99 99 00 00 ne ug ct ec eb pr ne ug ct ec eb pr Ju A O D F A Ju A O D F A
The Harbourwatch Program 157 Paradise Beach Baths
Description The baths are a 30-metre by 20-metre enclosed tidal swimming area backed by a narrow sandy beach and small reserve. '
' Pollution Sources A stormwater drain discharges directly alongside the Paradise Beach swimming enclosure. Two small drains discharge to the Baths PARADISE AV beach. Õ
Actions Pittwater Council is continuing a water quality monitoring RIVERVIEW RD program to identify point sources of pollution. Action will be taken to rectify any problems found. See page 154 for key to map
Compliance Generally high levels of compliance have been recorded for faecal coliforms. Enterococci compliances have been lower and more varied, with the compliance for summer 1999–2000 an improvement on levels of the past few seasons.
Faecal Coliforms Enterococci
100100 100 100 100 100 100 90 ■ winter season 78 78 74 ■ summer season 75 75 66
50 50 33 26 25 % Compliance 25 25 10 0 0 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00
Response to Rainfall Faecal coliform and enterococci levels increase with increasing rainfall. While levels of faecal coliforms are generally below the median guideline, levels of enterococci exceed the median guideline after little or no rainfall.
100000 100000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 10000 10000
1000 1000
100 100 − − median guidelines 10 10
1 1 Bacterial count /100 mL /100 count Bacterial 0 - 5 -10 -20 0+ 0 - 5 -10 -20 0+ 0 5 10 2 0 5 10 2 24hr Rainfall (mm) 24hr Rainfall (mm)
Season Data Enterococci 100000 Faecal Coliforms 0 L 10000 rainfall 50 100 m o individual result / 1000 rolling median 100 − − count rolling 80th percentile l 100 a i 150
Guidelines are also shown 10 Rainfall (mm) Daily acter
(see page 5 for details) B 1 200 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 99 9 0 0 ne ug ct c eb pr ne ug ct ec eb pr Ju A O De F A Ju A O D F A
158 The Harbourwatch Program Clareville Beach
Description This is a narrow, 250-metre-long beach located on the eastern foreshore of Pittwater. The beach is backed by a grassy reserve with picnic facilities at the northern end.
Clareville '
' Pollution Sources A number of stormwater drains discharge to the beach. Baths Beach
' Actions Pittwater Council is continuing a water quality monitoring HUDSON PDE program to identify point sources of pollution. Action will be taken to rectify any problems found.
See page 154 for key to map
Compliance High levels of compliance have been measured for faecal coliforms over the last five years, with most seasons complying 100 per cent of the time. Compliance for enterococci has been more varied and lower. Levels of compliance for enterococci have steadily improved over the last few seasons.
Faecal Coliforms Enterococci
100100 100 100 100 100 95 100 100 90 ■ 87 88 winter season e 76 ■ summer season 75 75 57 52 52 50 50 41 34 % Complianc 25 25 14 3 0 0 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00
Response to Rainfall Bacterial levels generally increase with increasing rainfall. Faecal coliform and enterococci levels regularly exceed the median guidelines when more than 20 mm of rain has fallen in 24 hours. High levels of enterococci are also frequently measured after little or no rainfall.
10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000
100 100 − − median guidelines 10 10
1 1 Bacterial count /100 mL Bacterial count 0 - 5 -10 20 0+ 0 - 5 10 20 0+ 0 5 10 - 2 0 5 - 10 - 2 24hr Rainfall (mm) 24hr Rainfall (mm)
Season Data Enterococci 100000 Faecal Coliforms 0 L 10000 rainfall 50 100 m o individual result / 1000 rolling median 100 − − count rolling 80th percentile l 100 a i 150
Guidelines are also shown 10 Rainfall (mm) Daily acter
(see page 5 for details) B 1 200 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 99 9 0 0 ne ug ct c eb pr ne ug ct ec eb pr Ju A O De F A Ju A O D F A
The Harbourwatch Program 159 Salt Pan Cove Baths
Description Salt Pan Cove Baths are a 20-metre by 30-metre enclosed tidal swimming area located on the eastern foreshore of Pittwater. Salt Pan Cove Pollution Sources Stormwater drains discharge directly alongside the Baths
Wharf swimming enclosure and at the headwaters of the bay. ' Park &
Actions There are no actions specific to this beach. PRINCE ALFRED PDE
See page 154 for key to map
Compliance Faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines more than 90 per cent of the time since sampling at this site began in summer 1996–1997. Lower levels of compliance have been recorded for enterococci, with compliance for the summer 1999–2000 season the highest yet recorded.
Faecal Coliforms Enterococci
100 100 9597 95 100 94 91 100 ■ winter season 81 ■ 75 75 67 summer season 63
48 50 50 29
% Compliance 25 25 10 13 0 0 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00
Response to Rainfall Levels of faecal coliforms and enterococci generally increase with increasing rainfall. While faecal coliform levels tend to remain below the median guideline, enterococci levels generally exceed the median guideline level after less than 5 mm of rain in 24 hours.
100000 100000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 10000 10000
1000 1000
− − median guidelines 100 100 10 10
1 1 Bacterial count /100 mL /100 count Bacterial 0 - 5 10 20 0+ 0 - 5 10 20 0+ 0 5 - 10 - 2 0 5 - 10 - 2 24hr Rainfall (mm) 24hr Rainfall (mm)
Season Data Enterococci 100000 Faecal Coliforms 0 L 10000 rainfall 50 100 m o individual result / 1000 rolling median 100 − − count rolling 80th percentile l 100 a i 150
Guidelines are also shown 10 Rainfall (mm) Daily acter
(see page 5 for details) B 1 200 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 99 9 0 0 99 99 99 99 00 00 ne ug ct ec eb pr ne ug ct ec eb pr Ju A O D F A Ju A O D F A
160 The Harbourwatch Program Winji Jimmi Bay
Description Winji Jimmi Bay is a small, poorly flushed embayment in the south-eastern corner of Pittwater. The sample site Winji Jimmi Bay
is off a narrow beach next to a dog exercise area. ' × Park Pollution Sources Stormwater drains discharge to the bay. Dog droppings from the dog exercise area and discharge of untreated sewage from older boats moored in the bay may also be a source of pollution.
Actions Pittwater Council is continuing a water quality monitoring program to identify point sources of pollution. Action will be taken to rectify any problems found. × See page 154 for key to map Compliance Faecal coliform compliance has varied considerably since monitoring began in summer 1995–1996, with generally high levels of compliance over the last few seasons. Enterococci compliance has generally been low, with summer 1999–2000 the first season to comply more than 50 per cent of the time.
Faecal Coliforms Enterococci
100 100 100 100 94 94 100 86 ■ winter season 81 74 ■ summer season 75 75 57 48 50 39 50 29 % Compliance 25 25 19 16 6 10 10 0 0 0 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00
Response to Rainfall Bacterial levels generally increase with increasing rainfall. Levels of faecal coliforms regularly exceed the median guideline when more than 20 mm of rain has fallen in the previous 24 hours and occasionally exceed the guideline after as little as 5 mm of rain. Enterococci levels exceed the median guideline with little or no rainfall.
10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000
100 100 − − median guidelines 10 10
1 1 Bacterial count /100 mL Bacterial count 0 - 5 -10 20 0+ 0 - 5 10 20 0+ 0 5 10 - 2 0 5 - 10 - 2 24hr Rainfall (mm) 24hr Rainfall (mm)
Season Data Enterococci 100000 Faecal Coliforms 0 L 10000 rainfall 50 100 m o individual result / 1000 rolling median 100 − − count rolling 80th percentile l 100 a i 150
Guidelines are also shown 10 Rainfall (mm) Daily acter
(see page 5 for details) B 1 200 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 99 9 0 0 ne ug ct c eb pr ne ug ct ec eb pr Ju A O De F A Ju A O D F A
The Harbourwatch Program 161 Bayview Baths
Description These baths are a 20-metre by 40-metre enclosed tidal swimming area located on the southern foreshore of Pittwater. The swimming enclosure has a narrow sandy
beach that is backed by a small grassy reserve. Bayview Wharf Baths PITTWATER RD
Pollution Sources A stormwater drain discharges directly alongside the ' swimming enclosure.
' ×
Actions There are no actions specific to this swimming area. FERMOY AV
See page 154 for key to map
Compliance Faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100 per cent of the time for all but one season since monitoring began in summer 1995–1996. Lower levels of compliance have been recorded for enterococci, with several seasons complying less than 50 per cent of the time.
Faecal Coliforms Enterococci
100 100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 ■ winter season 81 ■ summer season 75 75 72 62 58 57 52 48 50 50 39 38
% Compliance 25 25 5 0 0 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00
Response to Rainfall Rainfall of more than 20 mm in 24 hours generally results in faecal coliform levels that exceed the median guideline. Relatively high enterococci densities have been recorded after little or no rainfall. These trends are apparent in the season data plots below.
10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000
100 100 − − median guidelines 10 10
1 1 Bacterial count /100 mL 0 5 0 0 + 0 - 5 -1 0 -2 20 0 - 5 10 20 0+ 1 0 5 - 10 - 2 24hr Rainfall (mm) 24hr Rainfall (mm)
Season Data Enterococci 100000 Faecal Coliforms 0 L 10000 rainfall 50 100 m o individual result / 1000 rolling median 100 − − count rolling 80th percentile l 100 a i 150
Guidelines are also shown 10 Rainfall (mm) Daily acter
(see page 5 for details) B 1 200 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 99 9 0 0 ne ug ct c eb pr ne ug ct ec eb pr Ju A O De F A Ju A O D F A
162 The Harbourwatch Program North Scotland Island
Description A 15-metre by 50-metre enclosed tidal swimming area is located on the northern side of Scotland Island. A
wharf forms one side of the enclosure and samples are North taken from this point. The swimming area is backed by Scotland Island a reserve and picnic area.
FLORENCE TCE Pollution Sources Septic tank seepage from residential properties may × pollute the water in the immediate vicinity of the island. Scotland Island Actions Pittwater Council is auditing septic tanks and registering wastewater systems on Scotland Island. Identified problems are pursued and rectified. See page 154 for key to map
Compliance Faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100 per cent of the time since monitoring began in summer 1995–1996. With the exception of winter 1998, enterococci compliance has also generally been high.
Faecal Coliforms Enterococci
100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 94 84 86 87 ■ winter season 84 81 81 76 ■ summer season 75 75
50 50
% Compliance 25 25 19
0 0 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00
Response to Rainfall Levels of bacteria tend to increase with increasing rainfall. While faecal coliform levels generally remain the median guideline limit, enterococci levels frequently exceed the median guideline after more than 5 mm of rain in 24 hours. These trends are also apparent in the season data plots below.
10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000
100 100 − − median guidelines 10 10
1 1 Bacterial count /100 mL count Bacterial 0 - 5 -10 -20 0+ 0 - 5 -10 -20 0+ 0 5 10 2 0 5 10 2 24hr Rainfall (mm) 24hr Rainfall (mm)
Season Data Enterococci 100000 Faecal Coliforms 0 L 10000 rainfall 50 100 m o individual result / 1000 rolling median 100 − − count rolling 80th percentile l 100 a i 150
Guidelines are also shown 10 Rainfall (mm) Daily acter
(see page 5 for details) B 1 200 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 99 9 0 0 ne ug ct c eb pr ne ug ct ec eb pr Ju A O De F A Ju A O D F A
The Harbourwatch Program 163 South Scotland Island
Description An unnetted swimming area is located on the southern side of Scotland Island in Pittwater. A wharf is adjacent Scotland to the swimming area and samples are taken from this Island point. RICHARD RD
Pollution Sources Septic tank seepage from residential properties may
pollute the water in the immediate vicinity of the island. Reserve
South Wharf Actions Pittwater Council is auditing septic tanks and registering Scotland wastewater systems on Scotland Island. Identified Island problems are pursued and rectified.
See page 154 for key to map
Compliance Faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100 per cent of the time since monitoring began in summer 1996–1997. Compliances for enterococci have been more varied, although still relatively high in most seasons.
Faecal Coliforms Enterococci
100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 95 95 91 88 ■ winter season 81 ■ summer season 75 75 65
50 50 38
% Compliance 25 25
0 0 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00
Response to Rainfall Faecal coliform densities increase after more than 20 mm of rainfall in 24 hours. Elevated enterococci levels are also apparent after more than 20 mm of rain, with high levels occasionally recorded after little or no rainfall.
10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000
100 100 − − median guidelines 10 10
1 1 Bacterial count /100 mL /100 count Bacterial 0 - 5 -10 20 0+ 0 - 5 10 20 0+ 0 5 10 - 2 0 5 - 10 - 2 24hr Rainfall (mm) 24hr Rainfall (mm)
Season Data Enterococci 100000 Faecal Coliforms 0 L 10000 rainfall 50 100 m o individual result / 1000 rolling median 100 − − count rolling 80th percentile l 100 a i 150
Guidelines are also shown 10 Rainfall (mm) Daily acter
(see page 5 for details) B 1 200 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 99 9 0 0 ne ug ct c eb pr ne ug ct ec eb pr Ju A O De F A Ju A O D F A
164 The Harbourwatch Program Elvina Bay
Description Elvina Bay is a settlement on the western foreshore of Pittwater, adjacent to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. STURDEE L
The sample is taken off the public wharf on the southern ×
side of the bay. The swimming area is not netted. Wharf Wharf WIRRINGULLA AV Elvina Bay Pollution Sources Septic tank seepage from residential properties may be × a source of pollution.
Actions Pittwater Council is auditing septic tanks and registering Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park wastewater systems. Identified problems are pursued and rectified. See page 154 for key to map
Compliance Faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100 per cent of the time since monitoring began in summer 1995-96. Enterococci compliance has generally been lower and more varied, ranging from 61 per cent to 100 per cent of the time.
Faecal Coliforms Enterococci
100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 ■ 86 winter season 81 77 74 71 72 ■ summer season 75 75 67 61
50 50
% Compliance 25 25
0 0 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00
Response to Rainfall Faecal coliform and enterococci densities increase substantially after more than 20 mm of rainfall in 24 hours. Elevated enterococci levels are also apparent after more than 5 mm of rain. These trends are also apparent in the season data plots below.
10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000
100 100 − − median guidelines 10 10
1 1 Bacterial count /100 mL Bacterial count 0 - 5 -10 20 0+ 0 - 5 10 20 0+ 0 5 10 - 2 0 5 - 10 - 2 24hr Rainfall (mm) 24hr Rainfall (mm)
Season Data Enterococci 100000 Faecal Coliforms 0 L 10000 rainfall 50 100 m o individual result / 1000 rolling median 100 − − count rolling 80th percentile l 100 a i 150
Guidelines are also shown 10 Rainfall (mm) Daily acter
(see page 5 for details) B 1 200 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 99 9 0 0 ne ug ct c eb pr ne ug ct ec eb pr Ju A O De F A Ju A O D F A
The Harbourwatch Program 165 The Basin
Description This site is also known as Coasters Retreat and is an embayment on the western side of Pittwater, surrounded by Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. A shark net lies
across the entrance to the Basin, with a 500-metre Ku-ring-gai Chase sandy beach stretching north-east. National Park
Picnic Pollution Sources A small creek discharges at the northern end of the Area beach and a second small creek flows into The Basin. Wharf
These waters originate in the National Park and are The Basin
relatively clean. Shark Net
Actions There are no actions specific to this beach.
See page 154 for key to map
Compliance Monitoring of this site commenced in October 1999 and levels of both faecal coliforms and enterococci have complied with swimming guidelines 100 per cent of the time.
Faecal Coliforms Enterococci
100 100 100 100 ■ winter season ■ summer season 75 75
50 50
% Compliance 25 25
0 0 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00
Response to Rainfall Rainfall appears to have little impact on bacterial levels at this site. However, only limited data is available for analysis and changes in bacterial levels in response to rainfall may be evident when more data is available.
10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000
100 100 − − median guidelines 10 10
1 1 Bacterial count /100 mL count /100 Bacterial 0 - 5 10 20 0+ 0 - 5 10 20 0+ 0 5 - 10 - 2 0 5 - 10 - 2 24hr Rainfall (mm) 24hr Rainfall (mm)
Season Data Enterococci 100000 Faecal Coliforms 0 L 10000 rainfall 50 100 m o individual result / 1000 rolling median 100 − − count rolling 80th percentile l 100 a i 150
Guidelines are also shown 10 Rainfall (mm) Daily acter
(see page 5 for details) B 1 200 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 99 9 0 0 ne ug ct c eb pr ne ug ct ec eb pr Ju A O De F A Ju A O D F A
166 The Harbourwatch Program Great Mackerel Beach
Description This is a 500-metre long sandy beach on the western side of the Pittwater. The northern end is bounded by Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, and the southern by a residential area. Mackerel Beach Wharf is situated in the Wharf middle of the beach. MONASH AV Great MackarelMackerel BeachBeach Pollution Sources Stormwater from the residential area may be a source of pollution. ROSS SMITH PDE
Actions There are no actions specific to this beach.
See page 154 for key to map
Compliance Monitoring of this site commenced in October 1999. Faecal coliform and enterococci levels complied with swimming guidelines 100 per cent of the time during the summer 1999–2000 season.
Faecal Coliforms Enterococci
100 100 100 100 ■ winter season ■ summer season 75 75
50 50
% Compliance 25 25
0 0 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00
Response to Rainfall Bacterial levels do not appear to respond to rainfall. However, only limited data is available for analysis and trends may become apparent when more data is available.
10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000
100 100 − − median guidelines 10 10
1 1 Bacterial count /100 mL /100 count Bacterial 0 - 5 -10 -20 0+ 0 - 5 -10 -20 0+ 0 5 10 2 0 5 10 2 24hr Rainfall (mm) 24hr Rainfall (mm)
Season Data Enterococci 100000 Faecal Coliforms 0 L 10000 rainfall 50 100 m o individual result / 1000 rolling median 100 − − count rolling 80th percentile l 100 a i 150
Guidelines are also shown 10 Rainfall (mm) Daily acter
(see page 5 for details) B 1 200 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 9 9 0 0 9 9 99 9 0 0 ne ug ct c eb pr ne ug ct ec eb pr Ju A O De F A Ju A O D F A
The Harbourwatch Program 167