Clean-up underway at Moneys Creek

Clean-up works have begun after recent hot weather led to a number of fish deaths in the Moneys Creek lagoon.

The seasonal issue occurs when dry weather and high temperatures deplete the lagoon water on the western side of the causeway and oxygen levels fall.

Staff acted immediately to address the issue to minimise the event’s impact on what is expected to be a busy weekend for the popular location with school holidays now underway.

On Thursday morning staff removed about 150 – 200 mullet from the waterway and liaised with the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries.

Heavy rainfall during the clean-up should assist in returning suitable oxygen levels to the water.

To finalise the works to return Moneys Creek to swimming quality, the tidal gates will need to be opened during tomorrow morning’s high tide.

The gates are operated in conjunction with tides that are high enough to allow sea water to enter the lagoon, and to enable the lagoon water to flush out, allowing a mix of fresh and salt water and the movement of fish through the causeway.

While tidal gates are being operated the bathing area located on the beachside (eastern side) of the causeway on Moneys Creek outlet is closed for public safety. 

No swimming signs will be in place and residents are asked to avoid the area.

At this stage the tidal gates are expected to close on Saturday morning at about 7.30 am to ensure the system is flushed effectively.

Residents should not swim in this area until the no swimming signs have been removed.

This action would normally be scheduled outside of peak times – like school holidays – however it is an important step in the management process to address the quality of the water and oxygen levels in these extreme weather conditions.

Council is confident this approach strikes the right balance between public health and safety and recreational needs.

More information on Council’s Moneys Creek tidal gate operation can be found here.