Published on Friday, 31 January 2025 at 10:02:06 AM
Please attribute the information below to Shire CEO, Scott Wildgoose.
The Shire of Gingin and the Department of Health are warning people to temporarily avoid swimming in Moore River at Guilderton.
The warning follows health illness reports from groups who have swum in Moore River over the Australia Day long weekend.
Current water exposure may increase the risk of gastrointestinal illness, including vomiting, diarrhoea, or other illness or infection if people choose to swim or accidently ingest the water.
Anyone who has entered these waters and experiences symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal, chest pain etc, should seek medical attention and request testing through their GP.
They are also encouraged to notify the Department of Health’s Environmental Health Directorate on 9222 2000 (during office hours) or email: ehinfo@health.wa.gov.au.
Department of Health warning signs will be temporarily displayed around Moore River Caravan Park, river mouth and Caraban “rope swing” areas, and will remain in place until the Shire has undertaken further water testing and an all-clear has been advised.
In the meantime, people are advised to avoid swimming and all other direct water contact activities.
The Shire of Gingin will continue to monitor microbial water quality and liaise with the Department of Health regarding this situation.
Moore River is part of a broader agricultural catchment area and downstream river flow can bring nutrients, organic matter, sediments, and animal faeces and waste.
Further information regarding water quality and tips for healthy swimming is available on the Department of Health website at http://healthywa.wa.gov.au.
Should you have any medical or health-related enquiries regarding this matter please contact your local GP or HealthDirect.
For any Shire-related enquiries regarding this matter please contact James Bayliss, Executive Manager Regulatory & Development Services on (08) 9575 5100.
Pictured below: Shire of Gingin and Department of Health warning signage on display at Moore River.
Shire of Gingin media contact:
Meredith Taylor
COORDINATOR COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING
T: (08) 9575 5150
E: meredith.taylor@gingin.wa.gov.au
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