With good weather set to return at the end of the week, Environment Protection Authority Victoria’s (EPA) has released data showing the beaches that recorded the best water quality during the first month of summer.
During December 2020, Eastern Beach, St Leonards and Santa Casa on the Bellarine Peninsula shared equal top spot while Portsea, Sorrento and Rosebud were next, according to EPA’s popular Beach Report service. The report gives daily advice to swimmers about the quality of Port Philip Bay water.
“Rains like we’ve been getting these last few days, are probably at the lighter end for what can happen during a La Nina period but the conditions have still challenged bay water quality at many of the 36 beaches we report on daily,” said EPA water scientist Leon Metzeling.
“EPA advises against swimming at all waterways and beaches for up to 48 hours after heavy rain as there could be a higher risk of illness to swimmers from increased bacterial levels. EPA also advises people to prevent their pets from contacting water as well, “said Leon.
