Skip to main content

Sydney Beaches Closed as Mysterious "Tar Balls" Wash Ashore

Sydney's iconic Bondi Beach is just one of several popular coastal destinations forced to close due to the appearance of mysterious black "tar balls" washing ashore. The closures, affecting at least nine beaches in total, began on Tuesday after reports of the tar-like material emerged from Coogee Beach.

The exact source and composition of the tar balls remain unknown, prompting an investigation by the New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA). Authorities are concerned about potential health and environmental risks associated with the material.

"The EPA is investigating the origins and any potential risks to the community and the environment," tweeted Kellie Sloane, Member of Parliament for Vaucluse.

The closures have caused disruption for locals and tourists alike. Social media users like Lou Pollard expressed frustration, sharing a photo of their backyard as an alternative beach experience. "We can't go to the beach because of the black tar balls washed up on the shore," Pollard wrote.

News outlets like The Guardian and 10 News First Sydney have been covering the story closely, providing updates on the beach closures and the ongoing investigation.

Authorities are urging beachgoers to avoid affected areas until further notice. Updates on the clean-up and reopening of the beaches are expected in the coming days.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Distress Alert: Sailing Vessel Kiliki Overdue and in Need of Assistance

UPDATE:  The crew members were rescued.

Sailing Yacht Sunbeam Overdue – Italian Coast Guard Issues Search and Rescue Alert

  UPDATE 08 Sptempber 2024: The vessel was located in the port of Denia. Alarm no longer active. With the post on Facebook the captain lets us know that they are fine: Oisin Margey Hi, I am the captain of Sunbeam. We are fine and currently approaching the East Coast of Spain. So sorry we did not hear the vhf call and very grateful for the concern for our well being. It is very much appreciated. Please get in touch if you need  more information. Take care and safe sailing.

Search and Rescue Operation for Overdue Aircraft in Ligurian Sea

Issued by IMRCC Rome - Italian Coast Guard Date: September 17, 2024 To: All Ships Transiting in the Ligurian Sea  A white and grey aircraft with blue stripes is overdue and a Search and Rescue (SAR) operation has been initiated.  In accordance with the SOLAS Convention and the SAR Convention Hamburg 1979, all vessels transiting in the Ligurian Sea are urged to maintain a sharp lookout for the missing aircraft. Any potential sightings should be reported immediately to IMRCC Rome. Weather Conditions: Be advised that current weather conditions in the Ligurian Sea include northeasterly winds of 20 knots with waves up to 2 meters high. Weather is expected to worsen in the coming hours. The overdue aircraft and worsening weather conditions make this a time-sensitive search and rescue operation. The Italian Coast Guard implores all vessels in the area to actively participate in the search and report any potential sightings as soon as possible.