Council probe into bright green substance in Nerang River at Surfers Paradise
Council have launched an investigation after a bright green substance appeared in a Gold Coast waterway. Here’s what is suspected of causing the problem.
Council
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Council have yet to trace the source of a bright green substance which appeared this week in the Nerang River at Surfers Paradise.
Pictures posted to social media on Monday showed plumes of the substance in water near a storm water drain.
“Anyone know what this could be?,” a resident wrote. “Running out from our storm water area into the Nerang River at Surfers.”
It is believed the substance may have been a colourant used to help locate leaks in pipes.
Although such dyes are not toxic, council warned that allowing “contaminants” to enter stormwater drains could result in a fine.
A spokesperson said city officers had attended the site of the reported spillage in Surfers Paradise but did not find the substance during their visits, with investigations ongoing into the cause of the problem.
“The matter (at Surfers Paradise) was reported to the City,” a spokesperson said.
“Officers have been to the site twice but are yet to locate any abnormal colouring in the water. Investigations are continuing.
“Under the Environmental Protection Act 1994, allowing contaminants to enter stormwater drains, roadside gutters and waterways is an offence and may attract an on-the-spot fine.”