General News
7 March, 2025
Algae alert for Laane
Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) warns to avoid contact with water in Laanecoorie Reservoir due to high levels of blue-green algae.
Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) is warning people to avoid direct contact with water in Laanecoorie Reservoir after monitoring detected high levels of blue-green algae.
Warning signs will be positioned at formal recreational areas around the lake and remain in place while high levels of blue-green algae are present.
Laanecoorie Reservoir will remain open to the public for any activities that do not involve direct contact with the water while the warning is in place.
GMW water quality coordinator Bianca Atley asked people to take care around the water.
“Blue-green algae occurs naturally in waterbodies but contains toxins harmful to humans and animals,” she said.
“Contact with it can cause rashes; sore eyes, ears, and nose; or, if swallowed, nausea or vomiting. It is therefore important for people boating or enjoying activities near the water to take extra precautions.”
GMW recommends:
People and pets avoid contact with the water.
Those who come into contact with affected water should wash affected skin immediately in clean cold water.
Seeking an alternative water supply for stock and pets where possible.
Not using affected water for cooking, drinking, washing or showering. Boiling the affected water will not make it safe for these purposes.
It is not possible to predict how long the algae will remain at high levels.
People can stay up-to-date with blue-green algae warnings by phoning 1800 013 357 and selecting the option for blue-green algae information, or by visiting the GMW website: www.gmwater.com.au/ news/bga.