Toxic blue-green algae has been detected at two popular Bendigo waterholes.
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Routine monitoring by City of Greater Bendigo staff found the naturally-occurring organism in Lake Tom Thumb and Lake Neangar, as well as the channel that flows between the lakes.
Signs warning visitors against coming in contact with the water have been erected at both locations.
Blue-green algae can cause skin rashes or itchiness, as well as sore eyes, ears and noses.
If swallowed, it may induce nausea and vomiting.
City of Greater Bendigo environmental health and local laws manager Susannah Milne said a lack of flowing water and ongoing warm tempatures had created ideal conditions for the algae to bloom.
“Given the time of the year, it is likely that other blooms will develop, so we urge residents to exercise caution at all lakes around Bendigo,” Ms Milne said.
She reminded those recreating beside the lakes to keep their dogs on a leash at all times to stop them from entering the water.
Algae are often so small they cannot be seen, so a visual inspection of water should not be used to determine its safety.
Boating, fishing, sightseeing and other activities that do not involve direct water contact can still be enjoyed.
People who come into contact with the water should wash their skin immediately.
The City will continue to closely monitor the situation at both lakes.
It is almost one year since an algal bloom in the Murray River temporarily rendered much of the northern waterway unusable for holidaymakers and farmers.
The outbreak struck days before Easter holidays were due to begin, with the region’s tourism workers concerned the environmental hazard could keep visitors away.
While most blue-green algae blooms do not last long, often disappearing after a few weeks, favourable conditions can see blooms last longer.
The Murray River was not rid of last year’s outbreak until the end of June.
Gavin Rees from the Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre said waterborne algae was an important part of the water system’s ecology.
“Its often the algae on rocks or pools that is the primary food source for the small creatures, which feed the bigger animals,” he said.