This message is being issued for water
quality at Camberwell.
High
levels of Blue Green Algae have been detected in the river.
Regular testing is being conducted to identify new outbreaks or changes that might indicate improved water quality.
Someone peed in the river.
You should avoid direct
contact with affected water in Camberwell and Hawthorn East.
Do not use swim in
affected areas or use water for cooking, drinking, washing or showering. Boiling the water will not make it safe.
What you should do:
Visit EMV for more information.
Observe information
signs posted at river.
Protect your health:
Direct contact with
water affected by blue-green algae can cause skin irritation, sore eyes, ears
and nose. If swallowed it can cause cramps, nausea or vomiting.
If you do come into
contact with affected water, wash your skin immediately in clean cool
water.
Stock can be poisoned if they drink Blue Green Algae contaminated water.
Farmers are advised to access alternative stock water supplies if they suspect blue-green algal contamination.
Boiling affected water
does not make it safe to drink. Boiling water bursts
the blue green algae cells and releases toxins into the water making it more
likely you will experience symptoms.
If you are
experiencing any health issues after contact with affected water please seek
medical advice from your local doctor or Nurse-on-Call
on 1300 60 60 24.
Protect your pets:
Pet owners should prevent pets from drinking or having direct contact with contaminated water.
Impacts in your area:
The water colour is blue as a result of the algae bloom.
Boating and fishing information:
Boating and fishing
is still allowed in these areas, however care needs to be taken.
Fish caught from
affected areas should be rinsed and cleaned thoroughly in fresh water, and
internal organs removed from the fish and discarded before eating.
Do not eat mussels, crayfish or yabbies caught
from the affected areas.
This message was issued by Chief Health Officer.
The next update is
expected by 02/11/2026 12:30 pm or as the situation changes.
Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated
community radio stations, or Sky News TV.
Call the VicEmergency
Hotline to talk to someone about this message on freecall 1800 226 226.
People who are deaf, hard of hearing, or who have a
speech/communication impairment can contact VicEmergency Hotline via the National Relay Service on 1800 555 677.
For help with English, call the Translating and Interpreting Service
on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to telephone VicEmergency Hotline. If you
know someone who cannot speak English, provide them with this number.