Due to ongoing high levels of harmful algae in the Gippsland Lakes, the following seafood advice remains in place:

• for your own safety, do not collect or eat shellfish, prawns or crabs from the Gippsland Lakes
• gut and gill any fish caught from these lakes before cooking and eating
• do not cook or eat whole fish.

The species below are still of concern, as they have been detected at high levels in the lakes:

• Nodularia spumigena (blue-green algae)
• Pseudo-nitzschia delicatissima group
• Pseudo-nitzschia pungens/multiseries
• Pseudo-nitzschia fraudulenta/australis
• Dinophysis acuminata
• Dinophysis caudata
• Karlodinium sp (unspeciated)
• Karenia sp (unspeciated)
• Prorocentrum rhathymum
• Prorocentrum cordatum.

While the risk of contact with water has reduced, visitors are encouraged to continue taking the following precautions:

• avoid contact with water if you notice discolouration or surface scum, even where signage is not present
• rinse thoroughly in fresh water if you experience skin or eye irritation after contact
• do not drink water collected from the Gippsland Lakes – boiling will not remove the risk
• seek medical advice if you experience illness following contact with lake water.

DEECA and partner agencies are continuing to monitor the bloom. Monitoring and analysis of samples is being conducted on a regular basis to determine the type, amount and extent of algae present. The Gippsland Lakes contain many different types of algae at varying levels as part of the natural environment and balance of the Lakes system.

Weather conditions, nutrient levels, salinity and water flows all affect the levels of algae and can contribute to the formation of algal blooms on the lakes.

If a species of concern is detected, the public will be notified and signs put in place to provide advice where needed.

• Blue-green algae – Information about blue-green algae and algal blooms.
• Better Health – Harmful algal blooms.