Australia__Months after mysterious black balls led to beach closures in Sydney, marble-like debris, this time grey or white, has reappeared along the city’s shores, prompting authorities to shut down nine beaches, including popular spots like Manly and Dee Why.
In October, eight beaches, including Bondi, were closed for several days due to black deposits washing up. Authorities determined these were likely the result of a sewage spill.
Northern Beaches mayor Sue Heins expressed concern over the new debris, stating, “We don’t know at the moment what it is, and that makes it even more concerning.” Authorities are investigating the source, with the New South Wales Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) helping to collect the debris for testing.
The previous debris was reported to be “tar balls,” but testing revealed it contained substances such as cooking oil, soap scum, blood pressure medication, pesticides, hair, and even methamphetamine. Scientists linked the blobs to fatbergs, commonly formed in sewerage systems.
Although Sydney Water reported no known issues with the waste systems, the source of the material remains unknown, raising safety concerns. State politician Sue Higginson questioned the safety of Sydney’s beaches, noting that the EPA couldn’t explain the source of the human waste causing the fatbergs.
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