ACT Parks and Conservation Service restricts swimming in local waterways

The ACT Government has advised that parts of the Murrumbidgee River and Paddy's River have been closed to swimming until Thursday 14th December due to recent heavy rainfall resulting in poor water quality.

Advising that the closures are due to poor water quality in some parts of the Murrumbidgee River and Paddy's River from the recent heavy rain, Executive Branch Manager for the ACT Parks and Conservation Service, Stephen Alegria stated “water quality testing results have shown elevated bacteria levels and as a result the ACT Government has closed some areas of the Murrumbidgee and Paddy's rivers to primary contact (swimming) urge people for their own safety to please avoid swimming in these areas until water quality returns to a safe level.

"We're currently going through a heat wave so I know Canberrans will be eager to cool off in our waterways for a swim. But please remember, even in ideal conditions our waterways can be unpredictable, and you should always take care, be prepared, and only swim to your ability.”

Speaking yesterday, Alegria explained "all of the areas closed for swimming are still open for all land-based activities like walking and picnicking. If you were planning to head out for a swim this weekend to beat the heat, you may want to take the opportunity to check out one of the ACT's public pools or aquatic centres instead.”

Areas closed for swimming include:

• Casuarina Sands

• Uriarra East and West

• Swamp Creek

• Kambah Pool

• Point Hut Crossing

• Tharwa Bridge

• Murrays Corner

Image: Casuarina Sands Reserve.