THE 100th E.C. Griffith Cup will go ahead as planned next month despite concerns with blue-green algae in Pykes Creek Reservoir.
While Southern Rural Water has warned the Myrniong reservoir is currently unsatisfactory for recreational purposes, including swimming and boating, it held no sway over the speedboat event’s running.
‘‘It is not illegal for boating to occur while blooms are present, but we strongly recommend that people do not come into contact with water contaminated by blue green algae,’’ SRW manager sustainability Craig Smith said.
‘‘Given the combination of warm weather and some rain over the next week, it is quite possible that the bloom will continue right through Easter.’’
GALLERY: Speed boats hit Pykes Creek Reservoir.
Mr Smith said the algae could still be present when the cup is raced from April 26-28.
‘‘It’s impossible to predict what the levels would be in three to four weeks’ time,’’ he said.
‘‘Any cancellation would be the responsibility of the event organisers, but we would again strongly recommend that people do not come into contact with any water contaminated by BGA [blue-green algae].
‘‘If there was a BGA bloom present close to the time of the event, we would be in close contact with the organisers.’’
Southern Rural Water put up warning signs around the reservoir last week advising people not to swim, fish or come in contact with the water, after the bloom was confirmed by laboratory testing on Friday, March 15 — just days after the event’s official launch at the reservoir.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and will remove warnings when the water is considered safe,” Mr Smith said.
“However, BGA blooms can come and go quickly. We strongly encourage visitors to our reservoirs not to come into contact with any water where they suspect BGA is present.
“If you see a greenish scum on the water or encounter a strange smell, do not enter the water. Unfortunately, sometimes even when there is a bloom you may not see or smell it.’’
Blue green algae can be invisible to the naked eye and can cause skin rashes or itchiness; sore eyes, ears and nose; or if swallowed, gastroenteritis, nausea or vomiting.
More information can be found on the website srw.com.au for blue-green algae warning or by phoning the BGA hotline on 1300 781 806.
