A joint program between Byron Shire Council and the NSW Department of Planning and Environment that monitors ocean and creek water quality has been on hold, say staff, but there are plans to bring it back for the upcoming season, which runs from December to April.
According to the Beachwatch program homepage, ‘Our program provides regular and reliable beach water quality information to help people decide when and where to swim… Water samples are collected and tested for bacteria, showing signs of faecal pollution, and whether it is safe for swimming’.
The answers from Council staff came after The Echo asked why the Beachwatch program appeared to have been dropped by Council.
No concerns revealed
Staff replied that ‘Water testing was put on hold this past season as testing results had consistently revealed no concerns – coupled with COVID impacts’.
‘Staff resourcing, like most other areas in Council, was affected – the result of COVID lockdowns and border closures etc. A reprioritisation of the work program occurred as a result and the program has not been continued.
‘Staff resources this past year have had to be utilised to complete high risk food business inspections and focus on assisting food businesses respond to COVID.
‘Council staff are available to conduct water testing at any time during the year in response to complaints, notifications or observations received.
‘Council intends to recommence participation in the Beachwatch program for next season.
‘Some water sampling of main waterways and mosquito testing has recently occurred in response to the flood event’.
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