Illawarra Region Beaches

Austinmer Beach

Thirroul Beach

Bulli Beach Woonona Beach Bellambi Beach

Corrimal Beach

North Wollongong Beach

Wollongong City Beach

Coniston Beach

Fishermans Beach

Port Kembla Beach LAKE TASMAN Lake Illawarra Entrance SEA Warilla Beach

N Shellharbour Beach SHELLHARBOUR

0 3.5 7 Kilometres

Boyds Jones Beach

Bombo Beach

KIAMA Surf Beach, Kiama

Werri Beach

114 The Beachwatch Program Illawarra Region Beaches

Summary (Figure 16). This is an improvement from the previous summer season when seven There was a considerable improvement in beaches recorded 100% compliance with beach water quality in the Illawarra during faecal coliform criteria. summer 2000–2001. Woonona, Bellambi and Fishermans Beach Twelve beaches recorded 100% compliance all recorded a 16-percentage point increase with recreational water quality criteria for in faecal coliform compliance compared both indicators, faecal coliforms and with the previous season. enterococci, for the 2000–2001 summer season. This compares favourably with the Although compliance at Bulli and Corrimal results from summer 1999–2000, when eight Beach was less than 100%, compliance was beaches recorded 100% compliance for both still high at 97%. indicators. Enterococcal compliance Five beaches recorded an increase in faecal Eight Wollongong City Council Beaches coliform compliance, with six beaches complied 100% with enterococcal criteria for recording an increase in enterococcal summer 2000–2001. This compares compliance. Only Corrimal Beach recorded favourably with results from the previous a decrease in faecal coliform compliance, summer, when only four beaches recorded but this was only a three-percentage point 100% enterococcal compliance. decrease compared with the previous summer season, and compliance was still Bulli was the only Wollongong City Council high at 97%. beach not to comply 100% with the enterococcal criteria, although compliance Whilst compliance at the entrance to Lake was still high at 97%. Illawarra is lower than the other two monitored Shellharbour City Council The beaches that recorded an increase in beaches, there was a 39% increase in enterococcal compliance were Bulli (7% compliance at this site during summer increase), Woonona (16% increase), 2000–2001. Bellambi (16% increase), Corrimal (10% increase) and Fishermans Beach (13% Illawarra’s cleanest beaches increase). There has been a considerable improvement The Illawarra’s cleanest beaches were in water quality at Fishermans Beach since Woonona, Bellambi, North Wollongong, Beachwatch was extended to include the Wollongong City, Coniston, Fishermans, Illawarra region in 1996–1997. Five years Port Kembla, Warilla, Shellharbour, Boyds ago, Fishermans Beach recorded 72% Jones, Bombo and Werri Beach compliance with faecal coliform criteria and Austinmer, Thirroul and Surf Beach, Kiama 81% compliance with enterococcal criteria. also recorded 100% compliance with In summer 2000–2001, compliance was recreational water quality criteria, but only 100% for both indicators. faecal coliforms are measured at these The Illawarra Wastewater Strategy, part of beaches (see page 18 for explanation). Sydney Water’s long-term strategic plan, Wollongong City Council beaches WaterPlan 21, is addressing local water quality problems in the Illawarra. Faecal coliform compliance Nine Wollongong City Council beaches recorded 100% compliance with NHMRC water quality criteria for faecal coliforms

The Beachwatch Program 115 Shellharbour Council beaches scheduled for completion in 2004. Dry weather flows from the Bellambi and Port Faecal coliform compliance Kembla STPs will be diverted to an For the second consecutive season, Warilla upgraded and amplified Wollongong STP, and Shellharbour Beach recorded 100% and wet weather flows will be treated on compliance with NHMRC water quality site. A new one-kilometre ocean outfall will criteria for faecal coliforms for summer be provided at Wollongong STP (Sydney 2000–2001, with the entrance to Lake Water Corporation 2000). Illawarra recording 87% compliance with Other components of the Illawarra faecal coliform criteria (Figure 16). Wastewater Strategy include upgrading the Enterococcal compliance treatment plants at Shellharbour and Bombo, which service local communities. Results for enterococcal compliance were These plants will be upgraded to meet similar to the faecal coliform results for the growth within their catchment areas and to Shellharbour Council beaches. Warilla and improve treatment processes as necessary to Shellharbour Beach recorded 100% maintain marine ecosystem protection and compliance with enterococcal criteria, with beach water quality (Sydney Water the entrance to Lake Illawarra recording Corporation 2000). 68% compliance. Actions to improve beach water quality Whilst compliance at the entrance to Lake undertaken by Wollongong City Council, Illawarra is lower than at the other two Shellharbour City Council and Kiama monitored Shellharbour City Council Council are outlined in the Illawarra council beaches, there was a 39% increase in summary pages of this report (pages 120, compliance at this site during summer 135 and 141, respectively). 2000–2001. Stormwater runoff from urban and industrial areas and runoff from golf courses within the Lake Illawarra catchment may pollute this site. Structural works to achieve permanent tidal flows with the ocean have been completed. This aims to improve water quality at this site and the lake as a whole through the increased tidal flushing.

Kiama Council beaches

For the third consecutive summer season, the Kiama Council beaches were among the cleanest in the Illawarra region, with all four monitored beaches recording 100% compliance with faecal coliform criteria (Figure 16). Similar results were also recorded for enterococcal compliance. (Enterococcal data are not collected at Surf Beach, Kiama; see page 18 for details.)

Plans for improvement

Under the Illawarra Wastewater Strategy, a sewage strategy and environmental impact statement have been completed for the northern Illawarra STPs, with work

116 The Beachwatch Program Figure 16: Compliance of Illawarra Beachwatch Sites Summer 2000–2001

Faecal coliforms Enterococci

Wollongong City Council

Austinmer Beach 100 No Data

Thirroul Beach 100 No Data

Bulli Beach 97 97

Woonona Beach 100 100

Bellambi Beach 100 100

Corrimal Beach 97 100

North Wollongong Beach 100 100

Wollongong City Beach 100 100

Coniston Beach 100 100

Fishermans Beach 100 100

Port Kembla Beach 100 100

Shellharbour City Council

Lake Illawarra 87 68

Warilla Beach 100 100

Shellharbour Beach 100 100

Kiama Municipal Council

Boyds Jones Beach 100 100

Bombo Beach 100 100

Surf Beach, Kiama 100 No Data

Werri Beach 100 100

0 25 50 75 100 125 25 15050 175 75 100200 % Compliance

The Beachwatch Program 117 Wollongong City Council – North

Beaches: Austinmer, Thirroul, Bulli, Woonona and Bellambi t fff ( Austinmer Beach

THIRROUL

ø Lawrence Hargraves Drive f ( Thirroul Beach t t ø

LEGEND s Surf Club ( Sampling Site Major Road

STORMWATER SYSTEM

u Small Drain

u Medium Drain BULLI u Large Drain

ø Open Drain Creek SEWERAGE SYSTEM t Princes 8 f 9 Undirected Sewage Overflow Highway ( Bulli Beach 8 Designed Structure Sewage Overflow ! Sewage Treatment Plant

LANDUSE CLASSIFICATION National Park/Park/Open Space Other Landuse WOONONA f ( Woonona Beach

8 TASMAN

SEA

0 0.4 0.8 Kilometres

f ( Bellambi Beach

Bellambi STP Cliff-face Outfall Bellambi Sewage! Treatment Plant

118 The Beachwatch Program Wollongong City Council – South

Beaches: Corrimal, North Wollongong, Wollongong City, Coniston, Fishermans and Port Kembla

f ( Corrimal Beach 8

TASMAN

MT OUSLEY SEA

f( North Wollongong Beach

t t tt

f ( Wollongong City Beach

LEGEND s Surf Club CONISTON ( Coniston Beach ( Sampling Site Major Road

STORMWATER SYSTEM Springhill

Road ! u Small Drain Wollongong Sewage u Medium Drain

Wollongong STP Outfall Treatment Plant u Large Drain ø Open Drain Creek INNER SEWERAGE SYSTEM HARBOUR 9 Undirected Sewage Overflow 8 Designed Structure Sewage Overflow ! Sewage Treatment Plant OUTER HARBOUR LANDUSE CLASSIFICATION National Park/Park/Open Space Other Landuse

PORT 0 1 2 KEMBLA Kilometres

Port Kembla Sewage ( Fishermans Beach Treatment Plant 8 f Port Kembla STP Outfall (u ! LAKE ILLAWARRA 8 Port Kembla Beach

The Beachwatch Program 119 Wollongong City Council

Location Rankings could not be determined for Wollongong City Council covers an area of Austinmer or Thirroul beaches, as 714 square kilometres and has a population enterococcal levels were not measured at of 182 000 people. these sites. The Wollongong beaches occupy a 50- The Wollongong beaches are highly ranked, kilometre stretch of coastline from Garie with all beaches except Bulli and Corrimal Beach in the north to the entrance of Lake ranked equal first (Table 12). Bulli Beach Illawarra in the south. Land uses within the and Corrimal Beach were ranked second Wollongong beach catchments include and fifth, respectively. residential, rural, commercial, recreational, industrial and bushland. Council actions to improve quality Eleven beaches are monitored by Sydney Actions specific to individual swimming Water Corporation. Enterococcal levels are locations are included on the beach pages. not monitored at Austinmer Beach or Improvements in water quality will also be Thirroul Beach. (See page 18 for details.) achieved as a result of a stormwater management plan and a Stormwater Trust Compliance with guidelines grant, as well as individual programs. The Wollongong beaches generally have a Wollongong Coastal Catchment Stormwater high level of compliance with the Management Plan swimming guidelines (Table 12). During The stormwater management plan for the summer 2000–2001, faecal coliform levels Wollongong Coastal Catchment offers complied with the guidelines for 100% of structural and non-structural strategies to the time at all beaches except Bulli and be implemented over the next three years. Corrimal. At both Bulli and Corrimal Council is currently in the process of beaches faecal coliform compliance was 97% adopting the strategies outlined in the plan. of the time. Enterococcal compliance was also high, with all beaches except Bulli Stormwater Trust grants complying 100% of the time. Bulli Beach A grant of $550,000 awarded to Wollongong complied with enterococcal guidelines 97% City Council in 2000 for the protection and of the time. revegetation works of Cabbage Tree and The range of bacterial levels measured at Mullet creeks is due for completion in late Illawarra beaches during summer 2000– 2001. A Community Education Officer has 2001 is shown in Figure 17, with been employed through Stormwater trust Wollongong beaches highlighted in grey. and Federal Government funding for the Levels of both faecal coliforms and period of a year to engage the community enterococci were generally low at all sites consultation phase of the Cabbage tree and and within the range of values measured at Mullet Creek works. This officer will also be other beaches in the Illawarra. involved with other environmental education projects initiated by council.

Ranking of beaches Other council programs All monitored harbour swimming areas and Council has developed a number of ocean beaches in the Hunter, Sydney and community education initiatives aimed at Illawarra regions were ranked on the basis improving knowledge of catchment issues of their compliance with swimming relating to water quality. These have guidelines during summer 2000–2001. A included the delivery of an interactive total of 27 rankings was determined for 130 program called ‘Earth Helpers’ at local sites, with many sites ranked equally. schools to provide knowledge on catchment

120 The Beachwatch Program issues and stormwater impacts on beach furthering knowledge on catchment issues watcher quality. Council has also been and their impacts on water quality. active in the presentation of workshops during World Environment Day, aiming at

Table 12: Compliance and Ranking of Wollongong Beaches for Summer 2000–2001*

Compliance (%) Overall ranking Site Faecal coliforms Enterococci (out of 27) Austinmer Beach 100 No data - Thirroul Beach 100 No data - Bulli Beach 97 97 5 Woonona Beach 100 100 1 Bellambi Beach 100 100 1 Corrimal Beach 97 100 2 North Wollongong Beach 100 100 1 Wollongong City Beach 100 100 1 Coniston Beach 100 100 1 Fishermans Beach 100 100 1 Port Kembla Beach 100 100 1

Figure 17: Range of Bacterial Levels at Illawarra Beaches during Summer 2000–2001*

10000

1000

100

10

1 Faecal coliform Density (cfu/100 mL) Bulli Werri Thirroul Warilla Bombo Bellambi Corrimal Coniston Austinmer Woonona Fishermans Port Kembla Lake Illawarra Shellharbour Boyd's Jones Nth WollongongWollongong City Surf Bch Kiama

10000

1000

100

10

Enterococci Density (cfu/100 mL) 1

Bulli Werri Thirroul Warilla Bombo Bellambi Corrimal Coniston Austinmer Woonona Fishermans Port Kembla Lake Illawarra Shellharbour Boyd's Jones Nth WollongongWollongong City Surf Bch Kiama

* Enterococcal levels are not measured at Austinmer Beach, Thirroul Beach or Surf Beach, Kiama. (See page 18 for details.)

The Beachwatch Program 121 Austinmer Beach

Description The beach is 250 metres long. It is situated between two low headlands and backed by a park and picnic area. Two ocean pools are located on the southern rock platform. Swimming can be hazardous because t ( Austinmer of strong permanent rips at each end of the beach. s Beach SLSC Lifeguards patrol the beach from September to April. Baths

LAWRENCE HARGRAVE DR Pollution Sources Stormwater drains discharge to the beach.

Actions There are no specific actions for this beach.

See page 118 for key to map

Compliance Faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100% of the time over the last five years. Sampling is only conducted during summer seasons and enterococcal levels are not monitored.

Faecal Coliforms

100 100 100 100 100 100

75 n winter season n summer season 50

% Compliance 25

0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Faecal coliform levels appear to increase with increasing rainfall, occasionally exceeding the median guideline limit when more than 20 mm of rain has fallen in 24 hours. These trends are apparent on the season data plot below.

10000 L

m Faecal Coliforms 1000 - - median guidelines / 100 100 c oun t

10

B a c t e r i l 1 0 - 5 10 20 0+ 0 5 - 10 - 2 24hr Rainfall (mm)

Season Data Faecal Coliforms 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median - - rolling 80th percentile 1000 100 100 Guidelines are also shown 150

(see page 5 for details) 10 Daily Rainfall (mm)

Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01Apr-01

122 The Beachwatch Program Thirroul Beach

Description The beach is one kilometre long. It is backed by a ø large grassy reserve. Swimming can be potentially hazardous because of permanent and shifting rips. A Flanagans 50-metre ocean pool and wading pool are located Creek midway along the beach. BATH ST s SLSC Pollution Sources Flanagans Creek, Hewitts Creek and stormwater ( Thirroul Beach drains discharge to the beach. Pool

Actions There are no specific actions for this beach. t t ø See page 118 for key to map

Compliance Faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100% of the time over the last five years. Sampling is conducted only during summer seasons, and enterococcal levels are not monitored.

Faecal Coliforms

100 100 100 100 100 100

75 n winter season n summer season 50

% Compliance 25

0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Faecal coliform levels appear to increase with increasing rainfall and occasionally exceed the median guideline limit when more than 10 mm of rain has fallen in 24 hours. These trends are apparent in the season data plot below.

10000 L Faecal Coliforms 1000 m / 100

- - median guidelines 100

10 t c t e r i a l oun

B a 1 0 - 5 10 20 0+ 0 5 - 10 - 2 24hr Rainfall (mm) Season Data Faecal Coliforms 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 Guidelines are also shown 150

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details)

Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01Apr-01

The Beachwatch Program 123 Bulli Beach

Description The beach is 900 metres long and is backed by sand dunes and a reserve. Beach conditions are safest in

the patrolled area at the northern end of the beach. FARRELL RD Pool t Lifeguards patrol the beach from September to April. 8 s SLSC ( Bulli Whartons Beach Pollution Sources A stormwater drain discharges to the northern end of Creek the beach. Whartons and Collins creeks discharge to the beach. BULLI BEACH RESERVE

Actions There are no specific actions for this beach.

See page 118 for key to map Compliance With the exception of the past two summer seasons, faecal coliform and enterococcal levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100% of the time. Compliances over the previous two summer seasons were also high, with both faecal coliform and enterococcal levels complying 90% of the time or more.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100100 100 100 100 100 100 97 100100 100 100 100 100 100 97 100 90 100 90

75 75 n winter season n summer season 50 50

% Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Faecal coliform and enterococcal densities increase with increasing rainfall. The majority of elevated readings for both indicator bacteria usually occur after more than 10 mm of rain has fallen in 24 hours. These trends are apparent in the season data plots below.

10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

m L 1000 1000

100 100 - - median guidelines

10 10

t / 100 a c t e r i l oun 1 1 B 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 Guidelines are also shown 150

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

124 The Beachwatch Program Woonona Beach

Description Woonona Beach is at the northern end of a two- BULLI BEACH kilometre stretch of beach and is backed by sand RESERVE dunes and a reserve. Beach conditions are safest in KAREELA RD the patrolled area at the northern end of the beach. Pool Lifeguards patrol the beach from September to April. s SLSC ( Woonona Actions There are no specific actions for this beach. Beach

See page 118 for key to map

Compliance With the exception of the 1999–2000 summer season, PARKRD faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100% of the time since monitoring began in summer 1996–1997. Enterococcal compliance has also been consistently high over this period, ranging from 82% to 100% of the time.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 84 82 84 75 75 n winter season n summer season 50 50

% Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall The majority of bacterial densities that exceed median guideline limits are recorded after greater than 20 mm of rain has fallen in 24 hours. On occasion, relatively high faecal coliform and enterococcal densities have been recorded after more than 10 mm of rain in 24 hours. These trends are also apparent in the season data plots below.

10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000

- - median guidelines 100 100

m L c oun t / 100 10 10

t e r i a l 1 1 a c B 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 Guidelines are also shown 150

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

The Beachwatch Program 125 Bellambi Beach

Description Bellambi Beach is at the southern end of a two- kilometre stretch of beach and is backed by a reserve. LIGHTHORSE Beach conditions are relatively safe, and the beach is DRIVE PARK

patrolled by lifeguards from September to April. Bellambi Creek Bellambi ( s Beach Pollution Sources Bellambi STP discharges primary treated effluent via SLSC

an extended shoreline outfall at Bellambi Point. WHITBY MEWS Bellambi Creek also discharges to the beach. Pool

Actions There are no actions specific to this beach.

See page 118 for key to map

Compliance Faecal coliform and enterococcal levels have maintained a high level of compliance with swimming guidelines since monitoring at this site began in summer 1996–1997. During 2000–2001, both indicators complied 100% of the time over the winter and summer seasons.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 84 82 84 75 75 n winter season n summer season 50 50

% Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Bacterial levels generally increase with increasing rainfall. The majority of readings that exceed median guideline limits occur when more than 20 mm of rain falls in 24 hours. This is also apparent in the season data plots below.

10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000 m L

- - median guidelines t / 100 100 100 oun

l c 10 10 a r i

c t e 1 1 B a 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 Guidelines are also shown 150

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

126 The Beachwatch Program Corrimal Beach

Description The beach is 1.4 kilometres long and is backed by fenced sand dunes, a grassy reserve and a caravan park. Several dominant rips are present, and beach s SLSC conditions are safest at the southern end. Lifeguards ( patrol the beach from September to April. Towradgi Corrimal Creek Beach Pollution Sources Bellambi Lagoon and Towradgi Creek discharge to the

beach following heavy rain. Bellambi STP discharges TOWRADGI primary treated effluent via an extended shoreline BEACH PARK outfall at Bellambi Point. Runoff from the caravan park is also a source of pollution.

Actions There are no specific actions for this beach. See page 119 for key to map

Compliance Faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100% of the time since monitoring began in summer 1996–1997, with only one exception. A high level of compliance has also been recorded for enterococci during this period, with compliances ranging from 90% to 100% of the time.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100100 100 100 100 100 100 97 95 100 100 90

75 75 n winter season n summer season 50 50

% Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Rainfall of more than 10 mm in 24 hours generally results in elevated bacterial levels. On rare occasions, elevated enterococcal densities are recorded after little or no rainfall. These trends are also apparent in the season data plots below.

10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000 m L

- - median guidelines t / 100 100 100 oun

l c 10 10 a r i

c t e 1 1 B a 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 Guidelines are also shown 150

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

The Beachwatch Program 127 North Wollongong Beach

Description This popular bathing beach is 500 metres long and is backed by steep bluffs, a reserve and a picnic area. A s ( North number of rock and ocean pools are found on the rock SLSC Wollongong platform at the southern end. The beach is relatively Beach safe, although small rips and side currents do occur. STUART Lifeguards patrol the beach from September to April. PARK CLIFF RD Pollution Sources A number of small stormwater drains discharge at the

southern end of the rock platform. t t t t Actions Protection and revegetation works in the Cabbage t t Tree Creek catchment may improve beach water quality during periods of high flow. See page 119 for key to map

Compliance Faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100% of the time since monitoring at this site began in summer 1996–1997. For enterococci, monitoring began in summer 1998–1999, and levels of compliance have also been high, ranging from 87% to 100% of the time.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100100 100 100 100 100 87

75 75 n winter season n summer season 50 50

% Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Rainfall of more than 10 mm in 24 hours generally results in elevated faecal coliforms, while more than 20 mm in 24 hours results in elevated enterococcal levels. On rare occasions, relatively high enterococcal densities have been recorded after little or no rainfall.

10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000 m L

- - median guidelines 100 100 oun t / 100 10 10 a l c

1 1 a c t e r i B 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 Guidelines are also shown 150

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

128 The Beachwatch Program Wollongong City Beach

Description Wollongong City Beach is at the northern end of a four-kilometre stretch of beach that extends south to Coniston Beach. A reserve, picnic areas and car park are located around the surf club. Beach conditions are ENDEAVOUR DR safest at the patrolled northern end. Elsewhere, FLAGSTAFF swimming is potentially hazardous because of the HILL PARK prevalence of rips. Lifeguards patrol the beach from September to April. Wollongong CLIFF RD ( s City Beach Pollution Sources Stormwater runoff from the mainly residential and SLSC commercial catchment.

Actions There are no specific actions for this beach. See page 119 for key to map

Compliance Faecal coliform and enterococcal levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100% of the time since monitoring began in summer 1996–1997.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100

75 75 n winter season n summer season 50 50

% Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall The majority of faecal coliform and enterococcal densities that exceed median guideline limits occur when more than 20 mm of rain falls in 24 hours. Occasionally, elevated enterococcal densities are recorded after more than 10 mm of rain in 24 hours.

10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000 m L

- - median guidelines t / 100 100 100 oun

l c 10 10 a r i

c t e 1 1 B a 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 Guidelines are also shown 150

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

The Beachwatch Program 129 Coniston Beach

Description Coniston Beach is at the southern end of a four- kilometre stretch of beach that extends north to Flagstaff Point. It is a steep, narrow beach and is FLAGSTAFF HILL PARK backed by a golf course. Coniston Beach is not patrolled by lifeguards. Consiton ( Pollution Sources Wollongong STP discharges secondary treated Beach effluent via an extended shoreline outfall located at the WOLLONGONG southern end of the beach. GOLF COURSE

Actions There are no specific actions for this beach.

See page 119 for key to map Compliance Faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100% of the time since monitoring at this site began in summer 1996–1997. With the exception of only one season, enterococcal levels have also complied with guidelines 100% of the time.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 90

75 75 n winter season n summer season 50 50

% Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Bacterial densities generally remain below median guideline limits until more than 20 mm of rain is received in 24 hours. These trends are also apparent in the season data plots below.

10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000 m L

- - median guidelines t / 100 100 100 oun

l c 10 10 a r i

c t e 1 1 B a 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 150 Guidelines are also shown

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

130 The Beachwatch Program Fishermans Beach

Description Fishermans Beach is 500 metres long and has low headlands at each end. It is backed by a small reserve Fishermans and residential land. Beach conditions are safe most of ( Beach the time. Fishermans Beach is not patrolled by HILL 60 lifeguards. PARK

STP Cliff-face Pollution Sources Port Kembla STP discharges primary treated effluent Outfall via the shoreline outfall at Red Point at the southern end of the beach. ! Port Kembla Sewage Actions There are no specific actions for this beach. Treatment Plant

See page 119 for key to map

Compliance Faecal coliform and enterococcal compliance has varied considerably since monitoring began in summer 1996–1997. Faecal coliform compliance has ranged from 72% to 100% of the time, and enterococcal compliance has ranged from 68% to 100% of the time. During winter and summer 2000–2001, both indicators complied 100% of the time.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 87 87 84 81 72 74 75 75 68 n winter season n summer season 50 50

% Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Faecal coliform and enterococi densities tend to increase with increasing rainfall, with elevated levels occasionally recorded after little or no rainfall. The majority of bacterial readings above the median guideline limits generally occur after more than 20 mm of rain has fallen in 24 hours.

10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000 m L / 100

- - median guidelines t 100 100 c oun

l 10 10 i a r e

c t 1 1 B a 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 Guidelines are also shown 150

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

The Beachwatch Program 131 Port Kembla Beach

Description Port Kembla Beach is located at the northern end of a KING GEORGE stretch of beach that extends to the entrance of Lake V PARK Illawarra. It is backed by grassy sand dunes and a reserve. Beach conditions are safest in the patrolled

area, as rips occur at frequent intervals along the COWPER ST length of the beach. Lifeguards patrol the beach from 2SLSC

September to April. COOMADITCHY Pool LAGOON u Pollution Sources Port Kembla STP discharges primary treated effluent RESERVE ( via the shoreline outfall at Red Point at the northern Port Kembla end of the beach. Beach

Actions There are no specific actions for this beach.

See page 119 for key to map

Compliance Faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100% of the time since monitoring began in summer 1996–1997. Enterococcal compliance has also been high during this period, ranging from 82% to 100% of the time.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 91 82 75 75 n winter season n summer season 50 50

% Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Rainfall of more than 20 mm in 24 hours generally results in elevated levels of indicator bacteria. On occasions, relatively high faecal coliform and enterococcal densities have been recorded after more than 10 mm of rain in 24 hours, as seen in the season data plots below.

10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci L 1000 1000 100 m

- - median guidelines t / 100 100

c oun 10 10 a l

c t e r i 1 1 B a 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 150 Guidelines are also shown

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

132 The Beachwatch Program

Shellharbour City Council

Beaches: Lake Illawarra Entrance, Warilla Beach and Shellharbour

LAKE ILLAWARRA

LEGEND s Surf Club t( Lake Illawarra ( Sampling Site t Entrance t Major Road

t STORMWATER SYSTEM

u Small Drain

u Medium Drain u Large Drain

ø Open Drain Creek SEWERAGE SYSTEM 9 Undirected Sewage Overflow 8 Designed Structure Sewage Overflow f ( Warilla Beach ! Sewage Treatment Plant 8 8 LANDUSE CLASSIFICATION 8 National Park/Park/Open Space Other Landuse

Shellharbour Rd

STP Cliff-face Outfall

8 TASMAN Shellharbour Sewage Treatment Plant SEA !

0 0.3 0.6 Shellharbour Beach f ( Kilometres

9

134 The Beachwatch Program Shellharbour City Council

Location total of 27 rankings was determined for 130 sites, with many sites ranked equally. Shellharbour City Council covers an area of 154 square kilometres and has a population Shellharbour Beach and Warilla Beach were of about 54 000 people. ranked equal first, while Lake Illawarra Entrance was ranked 18th (Table 13). The Shellharbour beaches stretch along 20 kilometres of coastline from Lake Illawarra Council actions to improve water in the north to the Minnamurra River in the quality south. Land uses within the Shellharbour beach catchments include residential, rural, Actions specific to individual beaches are commercial, recreational, industrial and included on the beach pages. Improvements bushland. in water quality will also be achieved as a The three beaches in this council area are result of objectives in the Lake Illawarra – monitored by Sydney Water Corporation. Shellharbour Stormwater Management Plan being implemented over the next three Compliance with guidelines years.

Compliance with swimming guidelines Lake Illawarra – Shellharbour Stormwater varies considerably between beaches in the Management Plan Shellharbour City Council area (Table 13). The stormwater management plan, which is At Shellharbour and Warilla beaches, levels yet to be adopted by Council, outlines of both faecal coliforms and enterococci actions aimed at improving water quality, complied with the guidelines for 100% of including both structural and non-structural the time. Compliance at Lake Illawarra was measures. Structural measures include the lower, complying with faecal coliform installation of infiltration basins, artificial guidelines 87% of time and enterococci wetlands and gross pollutant traps, while guidelines 68% of time. non-structural measures include education The range of bacterial levels measured at initiatives such as drain stencilling and the Illawarra beaches during summer 2000– installation of signage to increase the 2001 is shown in Figure 18, with community’s awareness of stormwater Shellharbour City Council beaches issues. highlighted in grey. Elevated levels of faecal coliforms and enterococci are apparent at Other Council programs Lake Illawarra Entrance. Levels of both Council participated in the EPA’s ‘Leave faecal coliforms and enterococci were only Footprints Campaign’, with generally low at Warilla and Shellharbour involvement through the community and beaches and within the range of values local media. measured at other beaches in the Illawarra. Council has received funding through a Ranking of beaches National Heritage Trust grant to undertake a pollution control and mangrove All monitored harbour and ocean beach regeneration demonstration project within swimming locations in the Hunter, Sydney Elliot Lake (also known as Little Lake). This and Illawarra regions were ranked on the project aims to improve habitat and water basis of their compliance with swimming quality within the lake and consequently guidelines during summer 2000–2001. A improve water quality at Warilla Beach.

The Beachwatch Program 135 Table 13: Compliance and Ranking of Shellharbour Beaches for Summer 2000–2001

Compliance (%) Overall ranking Site Faecal coliforms Enterococci (out of 27) Lake Illawarra Entrance 87 68 18 Warilla Beach 100 100 1 Shellharbour Beach 100 100 1

Figure 18: Range of Bacterial Levels at Illawarra Beaches during Summer 2000–2001*

10000

1000

100

10

1 Faecal coliform Density (cfu/100 mL) Bulli Werri Thirroul Warilla Bombo Bellambi Corrimal Coniston Austinmer Woonona Fishermans Port Kembla Lake Illawarra Shellharbour Boyd's Jones Nth WollongongWollongong City Surf Bch Kiama

10000

1000

100

10

Enterococci Density (cfu/100 mL) 1

Bulli Werri Thirroul Warilla Bombo Bellambi Corrimal Coniston Austinmer Woonona Fishermans Port Kembla Lake Illawarra Shellharbour Boyd's Jones Nth WollongongWollongong City Surf Bch Kiama

*Enterococcal levels are not measured at Austinmer Beach, Thirroul Beach or Surf Beach, Kiama. (See page 18 for details.)

136 The Beachwatch Program Lake Illawarra Entrance

Description This sample site is located on the southern shoreline of the entrance to Lake Illawarra. It is backed by a large grassy reserve and picnic area. Beach conditions are generally safe, although the area is not patrolled. Lake Illawarra t Entrance tt Pollution Sources Stormwater runoff from urban and industrial areas and t

runoff from golf courses within the Lake Illawarra REDDALL PDE catchment may pollute the beach. t See page 134 for key to map Actions Structural works to achieve permanent tidal flows with the ocean have been completed. This will improve water quality at this site, and the lake as a whole, through the increased tidal flushing. A GPT has also been installed close to the site.

Compliance Faecal coliform compliance has generally been high, ranging from 77% to 100% of the time since monitoring at this site began in summer 1996–1997. Enterococcal compliance has been more varied, ranging from 29% to 94% of the time. Compliance for enterococci during summer 2000–2001 is a substantial improvement on that from the previous year.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100 100 100 100 100 94 97 100 94 87 87 81 77 75 75 68 71 68 n winter season 64 48 50 n summer season 50 50 29 % Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Faecal coliform levels regularly exceed the median guideline limit when more than 10 mm of rain has fallen in 24 hours. Enterococcal densities occasionally exceed the median guideline limit after little or no rainfall, and do so regularly after more than 10 mm in 24 hours.

10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000 m L

- - median guidelines 100 100 oun t / 100 10 10 a l c

1 1 a c t e r i B 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 Guidelines are also shown 150

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

The Beachwatch Program 137 Warilla Beach

Description The beach is backed by a reserve and residential land. Beach conditions are potentially hazardous, with rips dominating the surf. Lifeguards patrol the beach from October to April. SLSC Warilla Beach HENDERSON Pollution Sources Outflows from Lake Illawarra can pollute the beach. PARK Little Lake, also known as Elliot Lake, at the southern WOODFORD AV end of the beach, may cause pollution on Warilla Beach.

Actions Pollution control and regeneration work within the Elliot Lake catchment aims at improving the habitat and water quality within the lake, and of Warrilla Beach. See page 134 for key to map

Compliance Faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100% of the time since monitoring began in summer 1996–1997. A high level of compliance has also been recorded for enterococci, with all but one season complying 100% of the time.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 90

75 75 n winter season n summer season 50 50

% Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Rainfall of more than 10 mm in 24 hours generally results in elevated faecal coliform and enterococcal levels that exceed the median guideline limits. These trends are also apparent in the season data plots below.

10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000 1000 m L

- - median guidelines t / 100 100 100 oun

l c 10 10 a r i

c t e 1 1 B a 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 150 Guidelines are also shown

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

138 The Beachwatch Program Shellharbour Beach

Description The beach is backed by a low vegetated dune and

reserve. Barrack Point is located at the northern end. BARDSLEY Beach conditions are safest for swimming in the PARK patrolled area at the southern end, as permanent rips Shellharbour run out along the rocks at either end of the beach. Beach SLSC Lifeguards patrol the beach from October to April.

Pollution Sources Shellharbour STP discharges secondary treated effluent from an extended shoreline outfall at Barrack SURF RD Point.

Actions There are no specific actions for this beach.

See page 134 for key to map Compliance Faecal coliform and enterococcal levels have complied with recreational water quality guidelines 100% of the time since monitoring began in summer 1996– 1997.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100

75 75 n winter season n summer season 50 50

% Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Elevated bacterial levels are apparent after more than 10 mm of rain has fallen in 24 hours, but faecal coliform and enterococcal densities only occasionally exceed the median guideline limits. These trends are also apparent in the season data plots below.

10000 10000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci L 1000 1000 / 100 m

t 100 100 - - median guidelines

l c oun 10 10 r i a e

c t 1 1 B a 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 150 Guidelines are also shown

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

The Beachwatch Program 139 Kiama Municipal Council

Beaches: Boyds Jones, Bombo, Surf Beach Kiama and Werri

MINNAMURRA t RIVER f ( t Boyd's Jones Beach t

8 Bombo Sewage ! Bombo STP Outfall Treatment Plant ð ( Bombo Beach

8

KIAMA

t f ( ð Surf Beach, Kiama

Princes Highway TASMAN

SEA

0 0.6 1.2

Kilometres

LEGEND s Surf Club ( Sampling Site Major Road

STORMWATER SYSTEM

u Small Drain WERRI u Medium Drain

LAGOON u Large Drain

t ø Open Drain Creek SEWERAGE SYSTEM 9 Undirected Sewage Overflow 8 Designed Structure Sewage Overflow ! Sewage Treatment Plant f (Werri Beach t LANDUSE CLASSIFICATION GERRINGONG National Park/Park/Open Space Other Landuse

140 The Beachwatch Program Kiama Municipal Council

Location All monitored beaches within the Kiama Municipal Council area are ranked equal Kiama Municipal Council covers an area of first (Table 14). 256 square kilometres and has a population of approximately 19 000 people. Council actions to improve quality

Kiama Council’s beaches lie along a 20- Actions specific to individual beaches are kilometre stretch of coastline from the included on the beaches pages. Minnamurra River in the north to Seven Improvements in water quality will also be Mile Beach in the south. Land uses in the achieved through the implementation of beach catchments include residential, priority actions outlined in the stormwater industrial and rural. There are also small management plan and other Council areas of remnant bushland. programs. The four beaches in this council area are monitored by Sydney Water Corporation. Kiama Municipal Council Stormwater Enterococci measurements are not taken at Management Plan Surf Beach, Kiama. (See page 18 for details.) A number of objectives and actions that aim to improve water quality management are Compliance with guidelines outlined in the stormwater management Compliance with swimming guidelines was plan. These actions include the installation consistently high for beaches in the Kiama of litter racks and floating litter booms, and Municipal Council area (Table 14). the repair of existing fencing at stormwater outlets, as well as the construction of Faecal coliform and enterococcal levels macrophyte beds and wet ponds in specific complied with the guidelines 100% of the catchments. time at all beaches. A water quality monitoring program for The range of indicator bacteria levels faecal coliforms over the summer season in measured at Illawarra beaches during the Minnamurra and Crooked River summer 2000–2001 is shown in Figure 19, estuaries and Werri Lagoon has been with Kiama beaches highlighted in grey. implemented to assess the impacts of peak Levels of faecal coliforms and enterococci holiday loads on sewerage systems and appear to be generally lower than those stormwater runoff, as outlined in the plan. measured at other Illawarra beaches. Other programs Ranking of beaches Kiama Council’s ‘Plastics In the Sea’ project All monitored harbour and ocean beach is a joint initiative with Coastcare NSW and swimming locations in the Hunter, Sydney involves four community sub projects, and Illawarra regions were ranked on the ‘Adopt a Beach’, ‘No Plastic Bag Day’, a basis of their compliance with swimming community mural and a volunteer drive to guidelines during summer 2000–2001. A clean up Kiama Harbour. total of 27 rankings was determined for 130 sites, with many sites ranked equally. Council participated in the EPA’s ‘Leave only Footprints’ campaign with a launch at Rankings could not be determined for Surf Surf Beach and giant litter sculptures being Beach, Kiama, as enterococcal levels are not placed on the beach. The campaign also measured at this site. (See page 18 for involved community competitions and details.) surveys, plus media involvement. The Minnamurra River Estuary Management Committee and Council have

The Beachwatch Program 141 engaged a Catchment Planner, who is education package for the Minnamurra currently working on a community River and estuary.

Table 14: Compliance and Ranking of Kiama Beaches for Summer 2000–2001*

Compliance (%) Overall ranking Site Faecal coliforms Enterococci (out of 27) Boyds Jones Beach 100 100 1 Bombo Beach 100 100 1 Surf Beach, Kiama 100 No data - Werri Beach 100 100 1

Figure 19: Range of Bacterial Levels at Illawarra Beaches during Summer 2000–2001*

10000

1000

100

10

1 Faecal coliform Density (cfu/100 mL) Bulli Werri Thirroul Warilla Bombo Bellambi Corrimal Coniston Austinmer Woonona Fishermans Port Kembla Lake Illawarra Shellharbour Boyd's Jones Nth WollongongWollongong City Surf Bch Kiama

10000

1000

100

10

Enterococci Density (cfu/100 mL) 1

Bulli Werri Thirroul Warilla Bombo Bellambi Corrimal Coniston Austinmer Woonona Fishermans Port Kembla Lake Illawarra Shellharbour Boyd's Jones Nth WollongongWollongong City Surf Bch Kiama

*Enterococcal levels are not measured at Austinmer Beach, Thirroul Beach or Surf Beach, Kiama. (See page 18 for details.)

142 The Beachwatch Program Boyds Jones Beach

Description The beach is one kilometre long and backed by dunes and a reserve. Permanent rips occur against each JOHNSON ST

headland. Lifeguards patrol the beach from October to t April.

SLSC Boyds Jones Pollution Sources Stormwater drains discharge to the beach. Beach

Actions Council’s plans of installing a litter rack on the Moona t Ave drain have been revised because of the minimal PARK amount of litter being generated from this catchment. t Instead, Council has increased regular litter patrols to remove the small amount of litter within this drain.

See page 140 for key to map Compliance Faecal coliform and enterococcal levels have complied with recreational water quality guidelines 100% of the time since monitoring began in summer 1996– 1997.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100

75 75 n winter season n summer season 50 50

% Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall While rainfall of more than 10 mm in 24 hours generally results in elevated faecal coliform and enterococcal levels, values rarely exceed the median guideline limits. These trends are also apparent in the season data plots below.

100000 100000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

L 10000 10000 m 1000 1000

- - median guidelines t / 100 100 100 c oun l 10 10 r i a t e

c 1 1 B a 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 Guidelines are also shown 150

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

The Beachwatch Program 143 Bombo Beach

Description The beach is backed by a narrow grassy reserve and a railway line. Persistent rips occur along the length of the beach and make swimming dangerous for the inexperienced. Lifeguards patrol the beach for six PRINCES HWY ð Bombo weeks over the summer school holidays. ( Beach PARK Pollution Sources Spring Creek and an open drain discharge to the beach. Bombo STP discharges secondary treated sewerage via a nearshore outfall at Bombo Head at the northern end of the beach. See page 140 for key to map

Actions There are no specific actions identified for this beach

Compliance Faecal coliform and enterocci levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100% of the time since monitoring began in summer 1996–1997.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100

75 75 n winter season n summer season 50 50

% Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Bacterial levels generally increase with increasing rainfall, with rainfall of more than 20 mm in 24 hours occasionally resulting in bacterial levels that exceed the median guideline limits.

100000 100000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

L 10000 10000 m 1000 1000

- - median guidelines t / 100 100 100 c oun l 10 10 r i a t e

c 1 1 B a 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 Guidelines are also shown 150

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

144 The Beachwatch Program Surf Beach, Kiama

Description This 250-metre-long beach is backed by a park and the surf club. Swimming is potentially dangerous t because of the often large swell. There are permanent MANNING2 ST Surf Beach rips along the rocks at either end. Lifeguards patrol the SLSC ( Kiama beach from October to April. ð Pollution Sources Stormwater drains discharge to the beach. HARTWELL CR

Actions Kiama Municipal Council has proposed to install an end-of-pipe litter rack on the stormwater drain to the north of the beach, subject to funding and feasibility studies.

See page 140 for key to map Compliance This beach is monitored only during the summer season, and only faecal coliform levels are measured. Faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100% of the time since monitoring began in summer 1996–1997.

Faecal Coliforms

100 100 100 100 100 100

75 n winter season n summer season 50

% Compliance 25

0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Faecal coliform levels show little response to rainfall and only rarely exceed the median guideline limit. These trends are also apparent in the season data plot below.

10000 L Faecal Coliforms 1000

- - median guidelines oun t / 100 m 100 a l c 10 t e r i

B a c 1 0 - 5 -10 -20 0+ 0 5 10 2 24hr Rainfall (mm)

Season Data Faecal Coliforms 1000000

½ rainfall 100000 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 Guidelines are also shown 10 (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01

The Beachwatch Program 145 Werri Beach

Description This 1.7-kilometre-long beach is backed by a narrow reserve and residential land. An ocean pool is located on the southern rock platform. Swimming is safest at the southern end. Lifeguards patrol the beach for six Werri weeks over the summer school holidays. Beach SLSC

Pollution Sources Werri Lagoon and stormwater drains discharge to the t beach. GEERING ST

Actions Kiama Council is considering a proposal to replace Rock concrete stormwater drains flowing to Werri Lagoon Baths with a natural channel, subject to funding and feasibility studies. See page 140 for key to map

Compliance Faecal coliform levels have complied with swimming guidelines 100% of the time since monitoring began in summer 1996–1997. A high level of compliance have also been recorded for enterococci.

Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 87

75 75 n winter season n summer season 50 50

% Compliance 25 25

0 0 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01

Response to Rainfall Bacterial levels generally increase with increasing rainfall. Rainfall of more than 10 mm in 24 hours occasionally results in elevated faecal coliforms and enterococcal levels.

100000 100000 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci

L 10000 10000 m

1000 1000 - - median guidelines / 100 100 100

t a l c oun 10 10

1 1 B a c t e r i 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 Faecal Coliforms Enterococci 1000000 0

½ rainfall 100000 50 o individual result 10000 ¾ rolling median 1000 100 - - rolling 80th percentile 100 150 Guidelines are also shown

10 Daily Rainfall (mm) (see page 5 for details) Bacterial count/100 mL 1 200

Apr-00Jun-00Aug-00Oct-00Dec-00Feb-01 Apr-01 Apr-00 Jun-00 Aug-00 Oct-00Dec-00 Feb-01 Apr-01

146 The Beachwatch Program