Pumping the brakes on Coomaditchie algal bloom

The power of the sun is being harnessed at Coomaditchie Lagoon to combat a persistent blue-green algal bloom that is affecting the popular waterway.

Two solar-powered aeration pumps were installed in the Lagoon last month. The locally purchased BioRemedy pumps are being trialled to promote water movement and increase aquatic oxygen levels, which hinders blue-green algae growth while encouraging other microorganisms and good algae to grow.

Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said Coomaditchie Lagoon in Port Kembla is one of the city’s largest lagoons and an important wildlife habitat. However, over the winter months there has been a persistent algal bloom due to high nutrient levels and warm temperatures.

“While most algae are harmless, blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, impacts water quality and produces toxins that can be harmful to people and animals,” he said.

“Council staff have been monitoring the bloom and, when the site was registered as a Red Alert by WaterNSW, erected signage to warn visitors against contact with the water, including drinking, fishing, swimming and boating.

“We’ve done our homework on the best way to intervene. These pumps are a low impact measure to move and aerate the water of this much-loved community spot.

Prior to commencement of works, Council completed an Aboriginal Heritage Due Diligence Assessment and has been in regular contact with the Coomaditchie United Aboriginal Cooperation.

Cr Bradbery said it’s not possible to predict how long the bloom will last.

“We will continue to monitor water quality and only remove signage once blue-green algae levels return to a safe level.”

For more information and FAQs, visit our Blue-Green Algae webpage or the WaterNSW website.