Fears of contamination as Stony Creek Yarraville turns red
Locals in Melbourne’s west have been told to avoid Stony Creek as authorities fear the waterway’s bizarre colour could be a result of contamination.
VIC News
Don't miss out on the headlines from VIC News. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A popular western suburbs creek has turned red, forcing authorities to warn locals to avoid coming into contact with the water due to contamination concerns.
The Environment Protection Authority believe they have identified the source of the discolouration at St Leonards Avenue at Stony Creek, Yarraville.
The discolouration was first reported on Saturday and is “not naturally occurring”, according to authorities.
“The discolouration has likely entered the creek through the stormwater system, either as a flowing substance or as a result of run off from the rain on Saturday,” an EPA spokeswoman said earlier today.
“EPA is working with Melbourne Water and industry in the area to manage the issue,” an EPA spokesperson said.
“Stormwater controls have stopped the discharge to the creek, and clean-up works are expected later today.”
“Our investigation involves manually checking stormwater drains which contribute to Stony Creek near St Leonards Ave and endeavouring to establish the source.
“If a source can be identified, EPA will not hesitate to take action in line with the Compliance and Enforcement policy.”
President of the Friends of Stony Creek conservation group Steve Wilson said he was concerned about the creek.
MORE: STRAWBERRY NEEDLE FOUND IN CAKE
WHAT INSPECTORS FOUND IN FILTHY BAKERY
HOW DID MUSTANG END UP ON POWER POLE?
“It looks pretty bad, a bad spill,” he said.
“We’ll have to see what the EPA come up with.
“It is concerning, I hope it doesn’t effect the fish and the mangroves further down.
“I am hoping it is just paint, something that can be washed out but we’ll see.”
Mr Wilson said the spot was notorious for people dumping chemicals and hazardous waste materials.
The creek was notably contaminated by a West Footscray chemical fire in August last year.
The EPA said residents should avoid contact with the water until further notice.