103 swimming spots around the state consistently satisfied state guidelines for acceptable levels of faecal coliform and enterococci bacteria. Enterococci bacteria can cause meningitis and urinary-tract infections. 

But of the 96 beaches and swimming areas tested in Sydney, only 71 consistently met the guidelines. Shelly Beach in Manly passed only 79% of the enterococci tests, and less than 90% of the tests for faecal coliform. The nearby Narrabeen Lagoon and Malabar in Sydney’s eastern suburbs didn’t fare a lot better.

Assistant Environment Minister Verity Firth reported that the levels were not considered dangerous for humans, but said the government would clean up the failed beaches.

But it’s not all bad news. Bondi, Tamarama, Mona Vale, North Steyne, Cronulla, Hordens Beach, Port Hacking, Silver Beach, Botany Bay, and Barrenjoey were all given the thumbs up.

Post from: The Sydney Traveler