Updated 15 December 2017
Council has received results from the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and from our own testing which have concluded the matter on Ralphs Bay is decomposed seaweed/algae not sewerage.
TasWater has inspected their pump stations and other infrastructure, which have been found to be in operational order, with no blockages, faults, physical damage or sewerage leaks.
The Lauderdale Primary School oval was inspected yesterday and found to be uncontaminated.
Further information (as at 12 December 2017)
TasWater has responded to a number of complaints regarding odour in the vicinity of Ralphs Bay, Lauderdale over the past month. TasWater has inspected their pump stations and other infrastructure, which have been found to be in operational order, with no blockages, faults, physical damage or sewage leaks.
TasWater’s infrastructure is set back from the foreshore of Ralph’s Bay. Any overflow would be immediately apparent and emerging from manholes in the area. TasWater is confident the odour is not as a result of sewage contamination on the foreshore of Ralphs Bay. It is more likely to be a combination of decomposing seaweed and algae, an increase in temperature and recent rainfall events.
TasWater has also been in contact with the Lauderdale Primary School and confirmed they are not experiencing any sewerage issues.
In addition, Council has conducted regular physical inspections of the foreshore during the past 4 weeks. Council has found that it is decomposed seaweed and algae, which is naturally occurring.
Council will conduct further monitoring of the foreshore during the coming weeks.
TasWater and Council will approach the Department of State Growth (as landowner) to discuss the issue further.