Wiley Park and Birrong ponds closed due to toxic blue-green algae

An outbreak of the toxic blue-green algae locally has forced the closure of two ponds in south west Sydney.

Wiley Park's pond is closed due to toxic blue-green algae. Picture: Canterbury Bankstown Council

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Two ponds in local parks have been closed to the public due to an outbreak of the toxic blue-green algae.

Canterbury Bankstown Council urged locals to stay away from the ponds at Wiley Park and Maluga Passive Park, Birrong, saying drinking the contaminated water can cause illness.

The council said these two ponds are among 25 locations throughout the state, where NSW Water has issued red alerts for toxic blue-green algae.

Maluga Passive Park at Birrong.

According to NSW Water, blue-green algae occur naturally and can reproduce quickly in favourable conditions where there is still or slow-flowing water, abundant sunlight and sufficient levels of nutrients.

If this water is consumed, it could lead to liver and neurological damage, skin and eye irritation and gastroenteritis.

“I strongly urge people to not undertake recreational activities at Wiley Park and Maluga Passive Park, where they may come into direct contact with the water in the ponds,” Mayor Khal Asfour said.

“It is also important people do not allow their pets to jump in or attempt to drink the water.”

He said council officers will continue to monitor the water quality at these sites.

NATURE PATH OPENS

Meanwhile, residents can enjoy Waterworth Park’s new 730m nature path and scenic viewing platform, which cost a total of $620,000 to complete.

The park is one of 588 parks and reserves that Canterbury Bankstown Council maintains.

The project also included the restoration of the native riparian habitat of the park, which runs along the Cooks River and Wolli Creek, said Cr Asfour.

“We have also revitalised the banks of where Cooks River and Wolli Creek meet in Waterworth Park, and provided a better connection with walking trails to Bardwell Valley and Wolli Creek,” he said.

Over the past six months, more than 7,500 indigenous seedlings and 1,700 indigenous salt marsh plants have been planted with the help of Mudcrabs, Cooks River Valley Association, Wolli Creek Preservation Society and Muslim Aid Australia volunteers.

The project was part funded by the State and Federal governments.