Type Status Location Last Updated
Community Update - Env Unknown Lake Bolac 04/03/2023
This message is being issued for water quality at Lake Bolac. 
  • High levels of blue-green algae have been detected in the lake. 
  • The algal bloom is expected to remain until there is significant rainfall to flush the lake or cooler conditions slow the algae. 
  • Regular testing is being conducted to identify new outbreaks or changes that might indicate improved water quality. 
  • This notification will be reviewed weekly and updated as the situation changes. 
Warning signs have been installed at the lake. 

You should avoid direct contact with the affected water in Lake Bolac. 

Do not swim in affected areas or use water for cooking, drinking, washing, or showering. Boiling the water will not make it safe. 
What you should do:
  • Visit Parks Victoria website (https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/lake-bolac-highway-park) for more information. 
  • Observe information signs posted at the lake..
Protect your health:
  • Direct contact with water affected by blue green algae can cause skin irritation, sore eyes, ears and nose. If swallowed it can cause cramps, nausea and vomiting. 
  • If you do come into contact with affected water, wash your skin immediately in clean cool water. 
  • Boiling affected water does not make it safe to drink. Boiling water bursts the blue green algae cells and releases toxins into the water making it more likely that you will experience symptoms. 
  • If you are experiencing any health issues after contact with affected water seek medical advice from your local doctor or Nurse-On-Call on 1300 60 60 24.
Protect your pets:
  • Pet owners should prevent pets from drinking or having direct contact with contaminated water. 
Agriculture information: 
  • Irrigation water contaminated with blue-green algae should not be spray irrigated on vegetables and fruit, or come in contact with plants being grown for food during processing and packing. 
  • Fruit and vegetables grown in the affected areas are safe to consume if farmers follow recommendations regarding blue-green algae.
Impacts in your area:
  • The water is green as a result of the algae bloom.
Boating and fishing:
  • Boating and fishing is still allowed in these areas, however, care needs to be taken.
  • Fish caught from affected areas should be rinsed and cleaned thoroughly in fresh water, and internal organs removed from the fish and discarded before eating. 
  • Do not eat mussels, crayfish or yabbies caught from the affected area. 
This message was issued by Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.

The next update is expected by 04/04/2023 04:10 pm or as the situation changes.

Information about blue green algae:
Use multiple sources to stay informed:
Accessibility: 
The following services can help you, or someone you know, access information during an emergency. 
  • To access this information in other languages, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to call VicEmergency Hotline.   
  • If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment contact National Relay Service on 1800 555 677 and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.