sydney
Reuters
—
Nine Sydney beaches, including the famous Manly Beach, were closed to bathers on Tuesday after small balls of white and gray debris washed up on beaches at the height of the summer holidays.
Northern Beaches Council said it was working to safely remove the issue. Most of the ball-shaped debris samples were about the size of marbles, but some were larger, the statement said.
Famous for its golden sands and pristine waters, Sydney’s Ocean Beach attracts tourists from all over the world.
Beachgoers are advised to avoid and clean Manly, Dee Why, Long Reef, Queenscliff, Freshwater, North and South Curl Curl, North Steyne and North Narrabeen beaches until further notice. He was advised to stay away from the material while the investigation continues.
Officials said they are working closely with the state Department of Environment to collect debris samples for testing.
In October last year, several beaches, including the iconic Bondi east of downtown Sydney, were closed after thousands of black orbs appeared on the shores.
Later investigation revealed that these balls were formed from fatty acids, chemicals similar to those found in cosmetics and detergents, and other materials associated with hair, food waste, and wastewater.
