The City of Casey has rivers, wetlands and lakes for the community to enjoy. We work to keep these areas safe for everyone. A major health and safety issue for recreational waterbodies is blue-green algae.
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- Casey recreational waterbodies
Casey's waterbodies are managed by Melbourne Water and City of Casey.
The City of Casey monitors its waterbodies through regular water quality sampling and water testing:
- Ambrosia Wetlands, Cranbourne West
- Buchanan Park, Berwick
- Caithwill Court Reserve, Narre Warren North
- Clendon Street Reserve, Berwick
- Max Pawsey, Narre Warren
- Ronan’s Retreat, Lynbrook
- Sweeney Reserve, Berwick
- Wilson Botanic Park, Berwick
We also conduct regular testing on smaller waterbodies such as storm water drains that lead into reserves or are source of irrigation for sporting fields, parks and open spaces.
- Blue-green algae blooms
Blue-green algae (Cyanobacteria) can be found in many Australian water systems.
What a bloom looks like
A bloom may look like:
- spilled paint
- an oily film
- swirling colours under the surface
- thick scum on top of the water
- colours can be green, blue, yellow, brown or red.
What to do if you see a bloom
- Keep people and pets away from the water.
- Do not swim, fish, or play in the water.
- Do not let pets swim in or drink the water.
- Report the bloom to City of Casey or Melbourne Water.
When blooms happen
- More common in still, warm water
- Often grow quickly in summer and autumn
- Can last weeks or months
Health risks
Contact with blue-green algae can cause:
- sore eyes, ears or nose
- itchy skin or rashes
- stomach problems if swallowed (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea)
If you or your pet are exposed
- Wash straight away with clean water
- Seek medical help if you feel unwell
- Wash pets immediately with fresh water
- Call a vet if pets show signs of illness
Signs near waterbodies
You may see warning signs near affected water. These mean:
- No swimming
- No drinking the water
- No fishing or water activities
- No pets in the water
Contact us
Please contact Council if you suspect blue-green algae in any water body located within City of Casey.
Phone: (03) 9705 5200
Email: caseycc@casey.vic.gov.auMore information
- Department of Health – Health effects of blue-green algae
https://www.health.vic.gov.au/water/health-effects-of-blue-green-algae
- Water Quality Australia - Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) & water quality
https://www.waterquality.gov.au/issues/blue-green-algae