Australians have been urged to stay away from the Torrens River in Adelaide’s CBD after high levels of e-coli bacteria were detected just days before New Year’s Eve.
The tens of thousands of people who normally gather at the water’s edge to watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve may be forced to make alternative plans until the e-coli level in the main river reaches safer levels.
“Closed” signs were quietly posted around Lake Torrens on Christmas Day, warning residents that the water was “contaminated” and to “avoid contact.”
The Adelaide Park Land Association said on Boxing Day there had been no update from Adelaide City Council on the duration of the ban.
“Popeye boats continue to operate as passengers are not likely to come into contact with the water,” he said on social media.
‘Rowboats are NOT operating. They tell us the contamination is E-coli bacteria, not blue-green algae.’
Escherichia (E-coli) cold is a common cause of Bali Belly, also known as traveler’s diarrhea, and is transmitted when contaminated food or water is consumed.
It is understood that further tests will be carried out on Friday to find out how it can be fixed and whether the main river can be reopened before New Year’s Eve.
“Closed” signs were quietly posted around Lake Torrens on Christmas Day, warning residents that the water was “polluted” and to “avoid contact” (pictured).
The Torrens River (pictured) is the main waterway through Adelaide and is popular with tourists and locals for rowing and kayaking.
The Torrens River is the main waterway through Adelaide and is a popular destination for rowing and kayaking.
In previous years, the river has been affected by toxic blue-green algae blooms.
But since 2013, a team of experts has been monitoring algae levels and preventing outbreaks by releasing a fresh flow of water upstream.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted the council for comment.